Below, our definitive Vogue guide to garden party attire—what to wear, what to avoid, and the best pieces to shop now in every category.

Mini Dresses

There’s something irresistibly flirty about a mini dress when worn beneath sun-dappled trees. Garden parties are among the rare occasions where a shorter hemline can feel both whimsical and refined—especially when styled. This season, consider Magda Butrym’s painterly floral off-shoulder silhouette or Khaite’s raspberry-cream Pranta slip with architectural lines. For a touch of play, Pucci’s print mesh and Staud’s pleated embellished poplin mini bring energy to the lawn. Style with a raffia clutch and a block heel to balance whimsy with polish.

Midi Dresses

Consider the midi dress the true workhorse of garden party attire. Neither too prim nor too revealing, it offers the ideal length for moving gracefully between lawn chairs and canapé trays. This summer’s highlights include Prada’s butter-yellow pleated sheath, Stella McCartney’s lace-trimmed satin midi with boudoir undertones, and Bernadette’s painterly belted dress with a demure boat neckline. For a high-low moment, Mango’s strapless floral option strikes a sweet note. Pair these with kitten heels and a bit of glinting jewelry, and you’re well-suited for weddings, showers, or any garden gathering that demands a touch of ceremony.

Maxi Dresses

If the invitation leans formal—or if you simply wish to make an entrance—there’s no greater ally than a floor-sweeping dress. Cara Cara’s pleated strapless gown in crisp floral cotton evokes the grandeur of an English conservatory, while Sir’s slinky silk slip dress printed with muted botanicals offers a subtler take. For those drawn to color, La DoubleJ’s Penelope dress in zesty yellow reads like a walking sunbeam. Prefer stripes? Try the Laura linen sundress for a casual but considered statement. These sweeping silhouettes require little else—perhaps a sleek bun and delicate gold jewelry to finish the look.

Separates

While dresses may dominate, separates offer a welcome alternative, especially for those looking to wear their pieces long after the party ends. This season, Cara Cara’s pleated cotton poplin skirt and matching tie-front shirt make a case for coordinated drama, while Simon Miller’s striped poplin button-up and Pia pants nod to playful minimalism. Isabel Marant’s tiered halterneck top and paisley-print mini skirt offer a more bohemian spirit—ideal for more relaxed affairs. Each combination can be just as garden-appropriate as a dress, particularly when styled with personality: a bold hair clip, a vintage brooch, or oversized sunglasses.

Accessories

No garden ensemble is complete without the finishing touches, and this is where whimsy and utility meet. Staud’s ribbon-trimmed sunhat is both sculptural and practical, while Mango’s braided leather bag and Loewe’s floral cotton pouch bring texture without distraction. For evening affairs, consider Prada’s fringed crochet clutch in a grassy green. Add polish with Bottega Veneta’s cat-eye sunglasses and Lelet NY’s delicate claw clip—accessories that feel intentional without being overwrought. The rule here is simple: your accoutrements should complement the garden, not compete with it.