What to Wear to a Royal Garden Party: behind the scenes at the palace in 2025
There’s something truly magical about the Royal lifestyle, and if you’re anything like me, you’ll understand why I’m absolutely enchanted by it. My journey into this glamorous world began a few years ago, when I had the incredible opportunity to attend a Royal Garden Party.
I still remember the excitement, the preparation for the event, and the awe-inspiring feeling of being part of something so grand and traditional. It was not just an event; it was a memory etched in time.
Fast forward to 2025, and the allure of these Royal Garden Parties, now under the reign of King Charles, has grown even more. It’s like stepping into a page of history, yet each year brings its own contemporary twist, especially in terms of fashion. Let’s dive into what it takes to dress for such a prestigious event, blending the time-honoured traditions with the vibrant pulse of current fashion trends.
Dates for this year’s parties are:
There are usually two garden parties a year at Buckingham Palace in May or June, and one at Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh in June or July. At time of publishing, 2025 dates are not yet available.
Bookmark this post as we will update here as soon as we know.
Fashion Forward: The 2025 Guide to Royal Garden Party Attire
When dressing for a Royal Garden Party, the aim is to strike a perfect balance between formality and the latest fashion. It’s about respecting the grandeur of the palace and its traditions while showcasing a bit of your own personality and style.
For Women:
- The dress code: The classic formal day dress or sophisticated skirt and blouse combo remains the go-to choice. Modest hemlines and tasteful silhouettes are key to maintaining decorum at such an exclusive event.
- 2025 trends: Romantic influences are dominating this year, with flowing fabrics, puffed sleeves, and delicate lace details taking centre stage. Expect to see whimsical prints inspired by nature, such as butterflies, wildflowers, and birds, adding a playful yet elegant touch. Three-dimensional floral appliqués and soft pleating will be popular for dresses and skirts.
- Colour and style: While bold florals and vibrant pastel shades like lavender, mint, and coral are trending, neutrals such as soft beige and champagne offer a timeless option. Monochrome outfits in shades like blush or dove grey are also gaining traction. Sleeveless and off-the-shoulder designs are still popular, but this season they feature more demure necklines and flowing capes or wraps for added sophistication. Of course, a chic hat or fascinator remains non-negotiable—look for designs incorporating feathers, bows, or minimalist geometric shapes to stand out.
For Men:
- Dress code essentials: A sharp, well-fitted suit in light neutral tones such as stone, taupe, or dusty blue is ideal. For a classic yet modern twist, consider pairing your suit with a waistcoat in a complementary colour or pattern.
- 2025 trends: This year is about blending traditional British style with subtle contemporary updates. Striped or lightly patterned ties are back in vogue, as are textured fabrics like herringbone or linen blends. Accessories such as pocket squares in bold prints and tie pins with a vintage touch add an air of refined individuality.
- Modern twists: If you prefer a more casual approach while maintaining formality, try pairing your blazer with tapered trousers in a different shade or texture. Stylish footwear choices like polished leather brogues or two-tone loafers are on trend. If you’re feeling daring, a patterned blazer (think checks or subtle florals) can add character to your look without straying too far from tradition.
Here’s how we addressed it:
Understanding the Day Dress Code at Buckingham Palace
While embracing 2025’s fashion trends, it’s essential to respect the specific “day dress code” required at Buckingham Palace for Royal Garden Parties.
For Women: Opt for elegant day dresses, preferably knee-length or longer, that align with the Palace’s decorum. Incorporate contemporary trends to add a modern flair.
For Men: The day dress code calls for a suit or a smart blazer and trousers. Traditional colours are a safe bet, but lighter shades or subtle patterns can offer a stylish, contemporary edge.
There is also a lot of great advice and discussion in the comments on this blog – take a look below.
Practical Tips for a Flawless Royal Garden Party Experience
Comfort Meets Style: Practical Considerations
- Footwear: Choosing the right shoes is crucial. For ladies, the chunky heels of 2019 have given way to the chic and comfortable kitten heels in 2025, perfect for gracefully navigating the garden terrain. For gentlemen, stylish loafers or comfortable dress shoes are ideal.
- Dressing for the weather: The English weather is nothing if not unpredictable. Lightweight, airy dresses are perfect for warmer days, while adding a stylish blazer or a light jacket can prepare you for a cooler turn in the weather. Men can opt for breathable fabrics in their suits to stay comfortable.
Colour and Trend Insights:
- Bold and Bright: This year, it’s all about embracing vibrant colours. Gone are the days of sticking solely to navy, black, or grey. A boldly printed dress or a brightly coloured suit can make a fantastic fashion statement.
- Shimmer and Shine: The ‘heavy metals’ trend is in, allowing you to incorporate shimmering elements into your attire, adding a touch of glamour and helping you stand out in the most sophisticated way.
The Art of Dressing for the Occasion:
Remember, the essence of Royal Garden Party attire is finding that sweet spot between formal and fashionable. It’s about dressing respectfully for the occasion while still injecting your unique style into your outfit. The key is to respect the tradition but also embrace the new – blending the old with the new is what 2025 is all about!
Image courtesy royal.com
Got any questions or need more tips on Royal events or fashion? I’m always here to share insights and advice.
Drop a comment, and let’s keep the conversation going. Your curiosity and engagement are what drive this community of royal fashion enthusiasts. Let’s explore this glamorous world together!
More information:
Keep an eye on the Royal website for updates on events in 2025.
Is there any other information you’d like to see covered about Royal events? Let us know and we’ll find out more. We’d love to hear from you – please do drop us a line in the comments.
