When it comes to dressing for a baptism or christening, the key is to strike a balance between personal style and respect for the occasion. While there may not be a formal dress code, it’s essential to consider the setting – in this case, a church. This means choosing an outfit that is modest and appropriate for the sacred space. In terms of colour, the options are endless. You can opt for something bright and cheerful or go for a more subdued tone.
The beauty lies in your ability to express yourself through your clothing choice. Whether you prefer dresses or suits, the focus should be on being comfortable while still showing respect for the occasion. As we move forward, we’ll dive deeper into some dos and don’ts to keep in mind when dressing for this special event.
Outfit Ideas For A Baptism
When planning a baptism, selecting a theme can simplify the process of choosing attire. For instance, if your chosen theme is yellow, you can opt for a striking long maxi dress in a vibrant shade. Alternatively, you could stick to a palette of mustard, yellow, and white hues. Similarly, if you’ve decided on a pink cake, it’s not hard to imagine the entire party donning pink attire – resulting in delightful, photo-worthy moments that will be cherished for years to come.
Do’s & Dont’s
For gatherings at church, dressing appropriately is essential. Women, opt for modest attire that adheres to church dress codes. While it’s okay to change into something more revealing after the service if there’s a party involved, choose a chic and suitable outfit for the church itself. A turtleneck ensemble can be both stylish and fitting for the occasion. Men, leave casual wear at home and opt for formal attire like a suit. The tie is optional but adds a touch of sophistication.
While casual clothing isn’t entirely off-limits, dressing formally will ensure you look polished in family photos. When it comes to children, feel free to get creative with their outfits. For little girls, you can create a princess-like appearance with a Disney-inspired dress, ranging from maxi dresses to flowing gowns. Baby boys also have plenty of options to make them stand out, so don’t be afraid to get playful and find the perfect look.
20 – One Shoulder Chiffon Dress
Elevate your style with a side-slit maxi dress, perfect for adding a touch of sophistication to your outfit. A fancy belt can add a pop of elegance, while carrying a coat is always a good idea in unpredictable weather. Stick to neutral colors like beige or tan to keep the focus on your overall look. To complete the ensemble, opt for minimal hairstyle and makeup, allowing your accessories to take center stage. Pair your dress with strap heels and statement jewelry for a chic and polished finish.
19 – How To Dress Your Kids
For a more understated look that’s still suitable for kids, consider silk maxi dresses. By pairing two different colors, such as rich purple with crisp white, you can create a minimalist yet vibrant outfit that’s perfect for special occasions like baptisms. The simplicity of the design makes it easy to mix and match with other pieces in your wardrobe.
18 – Leopard Print Summer Dress
When it comes to dressing for a church event, a printed maxi dress is an excellent choice. Not only will you exude elegance and modesty, but the fabric will also keep you warm, as chapels can be quite chilly. If you’re concerned about the v-neckline being too bold, don’t worry – the length of the maxi dress will provide a perfect balance. To complete your look, add a pair of heels for added sophistication and top it off with a stylish pair of shades.
Some great options to consider include the KARALIN Women’s Casual Maxi Dress ($35), paired with the DREAM PAIRS Open Toe Stilettos ($58.99) and Aitbags Clutch Purse ($19.99).
17 – When To Wear A Slit Dress
When it comes to dressing for a baptism, a classic choice like blue is always a safe bet. For those looking to make a statement, a maxi dress is an excellent option. This versatile style can be dressed up or down and suits mothers, aunts, and even godmothers. To add a touch of sophistication, consider a side cut design and a subtle bare waist. These small details can elevate the overall look and create a sense of elegance.
16 – Matching Baptism Outfits For Family
When it comes to the baptism of your child, you’ll want to make a lasting impression. This is an opportunity to create cherished memories with your family, and what better way to do so than by presenting yourselves in a cohesive and stylish manner? A dress code can be an excellent way to achieve this, allowing you to harmonize your outfit with that of your loved ones.
For a neutral tone that exudes elegance, consider a modest midi dress for the ladies, while gentlemen may want to opt for a slim fit suit from Calvin Klein. By coordinating your attire in this manner, you’ll be sure to produce stunning family group photos that will serve as a beautiful reminder of this special occasion.
15 – Pastel Blue Suit
When it comes to choosing an outfit for a baptism, many people opt for neutral tones and understated patterns. A suit is a classic choice that exudes simplicity and elegance. Pastel hues can add a touch of sophistication to this timeless ensemble. Pair the suit with a darker-hued top and complement it with matching court shoes to elevate your overall look. For a stylish and put-together outfit, consider the LISUEYNE Women’s Blazer Suit Set ($98.99), paired with the SheIn Women’s Cami Top ($17.
99) and FSJ Women Formal Stiletto ($65.99).
14 – Style A V-Neck Short Dress
While neutral colors are often preferred for baptism, you can also opt for printed dresses that strike a balance between elegance and modesty. A chic print with subtle patterns is a great way to add visual interest without drawing attention away from the sacred occasion. Consider pairing your dress with a midi hemline and adding delicate frills for added detail. To complete the look, pair your dress with a high-quality leather belt and ankle-strap heels.
For inspiration, consider options like Allegra K’s Floral Dress ($30.99) or Udekit’s PU Leather Belt ($9.99).
13 – Turtle Neck Formal Attire
When it comes to attending a chapel service during the winter months, dressing warmly is essential. The last thing you want is to be shivering through what should be an unforgettable experience for your child. Opting for layers and choosing warm, neutral tones like beige or white can make a big difference. For women, a cozy knitted midi dress with minimal accessories and makeup is a great way to stay comfortable while still looking stylish.
Consider pieces like the WONETA Women’s Mock Neck Slim Fit ($29.99) or the Dressy Daisy Baby Girls’ Baptism Gown ($21.99) for inspiration.
12 – Styling A Casual Dress
There’s no rule that says you can’t wear a midi to a baptism – it’s all about the styling. If your dress hits above the knee, balance it out with loose-fitting sleeves. For a chic look, choose a neutral color like blue or grey. To elevate your outfit, opt for court shoes and pair them with an elegant bag. To get started, consider dressing up in pieces like the Daily Ritual Women’s Jersey Shirt Dress ($18.90) and SAMMITOP Women’s Pointed Toe Stiletto ($50.88).
11 – What’s Better Than A Red Fit?
For those who prefer a relaxed dress code, there are no strict rules to follow. In this case, you can opt for a comfortable and stylish outfit like a red jumpsuit with detailed sleeves. This choice not only allows you to participate in the event without any discomfort but also makes you feel confident and at ease.
If you’re looking for alternative options, consider dresses like SheIn’s Women’s Elegant Sheath Pencil Dress or Silver Mermaid Baby Girls Lace Dress, both of which are affordable and can be purchased for $21.99 and $36.90 respectively.
10 – Silk Outfit With Nude Heels
Maxi dresses have become a staple in baptismal attire, exuding elegance and modesty. However, styling an ankle-length maxi dress differently can elevate the overall look. For instance, opting for a beige hue is a timeless choice that works well with chic detailing such as bows and buttons. Pairing this dress with pumps and minimal makeup creates a sophisticated yet understated ensemble.
When it comes to actual purchases, options like Calvin Klein’s V-Neck Maxi Dress ($75) or DREAM PAIRS’ Women’s Heels Pump Shoes ($22.99) can help complete the look.
9 – Keep It Elegant!
While neutrals are a popular choice, dark colours can also be stunning when styled correctly. The misconception that black is only suitable for formal occasions like funerals and weddings is just that – a myth. With the right combination of makeup, shoes, and accessories, you can create a look that’s anything but somber. For instance, pairing a black midi dress with elegant heels and subtle makeup creates a chic ensemble.
You can also opt for darker hues like green or grey, which can add depth to your overall aesthetic. Additionally, if you’re wearing a dress with a round neck, a sleek bun can be the perfect finishing touch.
8 – Nude Pink Dress
While there are no strict dress code requirements for a baptism, it’s generally considered respectful to opt for modest attire. One approach is to balance body-hugging dresses with layers that create a more subtle look. For instance, pairing a clinging dress with a blazer and cardigan can help achieve a sense of decorum. If you’re in the market for some inspiration, consider pieces like the Floerns Women’s Jacket Blazer ($25.99) or Floerns Women’s Split Midi Dress ($29.
99), which offer both style and modesty. And for a more affordable option, the DREAM PAIRS Women’s Open Toe Ankle Strap Heels at $19.99 can add a touch of elegance to your overall ensemble.
7 – Girl’s Christening Gown
Children often take great delight in dressing up, and when they’re old enough to have siblings of their own, the excitement only grows. When it comes to special occasions like a baptism, it’s wonderful to include older sisters in the celebration. For an elder daughter, a beautiful white gown is the perfect choice, paired with a sparkling crown and elegant opera gloves to create a truly regal princess look.
6 – White Floral Outfit
While white is an elegant choice, not everyone can confidently wear a monochromatic dress. For those who are hesitant to opt for a solid white dress, consider a printed version instead. A subtle print can add a touch of personality to the overall look without overpowering the white base. Neutral-toned prints or simple designs can help create a cohesive outfit when paired with matching heels and a blazer.
5 – Bright Outfit For A Sunny Day
When it comes to dressing for a baptism celebration, comfort is key. A lovely ankle-length maxi dress is an excellent choice as it exudes modesty and style. Not only will you look great, but you’ll also be able to enjoy the event without worrying about your outfit hindering your fun. If you want to add some visual interest, consider vibrant floral prints – just be mindful of the pattern’s intensity so it doesn’t overwhelm.
With a comfortable dress like this, you can focus on celebrating with friends and family rather than fussing over your appearance.
4 – Fancy Baptism Outfit
For an alternative to the traditional formal attire, consider opting for a stylish two-piece ensemble. You can find such sophisticated outfits at your go-to fashion brands or even get one custom-made. A v-neck, sleeveless top paired with flared trousers creates a chic look that’s perfect for dressing up. To complete your outfit, add a pair of pointed shoes and keep your makeup natural and understated.
3 – Styling A Wrap Dress
While plunging v-necks may not be the most conventional choice for religious events like baptisms, they can still exude elegance when styled thoughtfully. One way to achieve this balance is by opting for a longer dress that draws attention away from the deep neckline. Alternatively, pairing the dress with a blazer can add a touch of sophistication. It’s also worth noting that you don’t necessarily need your dress to cling in order to pull off the look.
To keep things simple, consider keeping your accessories minimal and understated.
2 – Stunning Orange Jumpsuit
When it comes to dressing for a baptism, jumpsuits are an excellent choice. To add some visual interest, consider pairing them with a wide belt and clutch bag. If you’re unsure about the shoes, ankle strap heels can be a great option. Alternatively, why not mix things up by trying a bold color combination? While bright shades may not be suitable, a harmonious blend of orange and peach hues can create a stunning effect.
To complete the look, add some subtle detailing to give your outfit an extra touch of elegance.
1 – Go All-White
White is a versatile and timeless choice for a family dress code. The beauty of white lies in its ability to be paired with a variety of outfits, making it an excellent option for both men and women. A simple white button-up shirt can be easily combined with a flowy skirt or trousers to create a polished look. Additionally, the neutral tone of white allows children, especially the little one being baptized, to shine in their own special outfit.
With options like the LAISHEN Women Tunic Top for $15.98, SANGTREE Girls Women’s Pleated Skirt for $4.99, and Cape Robbin Maria-2 Clear Block Heels for $16.90, you can easily create a cohesive and stylish look for your family.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What not wear to a baptism?
Baptism is a sacred ceremony that warrants modest attire. While there’s no specific dress code, it’s essential to show respect by dressing appropriately. This applies equally to both men and women. For women, the focus should be on covering the body without being too flashy. Avoid tight, revealing, or short dresses, and opt for high necklines and knee-length or maxi-length dresses instead.
If you do choose a sleeveless top, consider pairing it with a scarf or thin jacket to keep your shoulders covered during the ceremony. Men’s attire should also be formal, avoiding casual wear like shorts, tank tops, jeans, and t-shirts with inappropriate messages or images. A suit is an excellent choice for men on this occasion, as it conveys respect and dignity.
Q. Can you wear black to a baptism?
While it’s common to associate black with superstitions surrounding important events and ceremonies, there’s no reason why you can’t wear a bold black outfit on your special day. In fact, you’re free to choose any color that makes you feel confident and beautiful – including the dramatic and striking hue of black.
Q. Is red too bright color for baptism?
The significance of red as a warm and inviting color cannot be overstated. Its bold hues are capable of capturing attention, which is both surprising and endearing. While opinions on the color red may vary, it’s generally well-received by most people. When hosting guests, it’s thoughtful to consider their personal preferences regarding attire, especially if they have a particular fondness for soft or pastel shades.
Q. What is the dress code for a baptism?
When it comes to dressing for a baptism, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to attire. While white dresses are often considered traditional and elegant, you’re free to choose any color that makes you feel confident and comfortable. If you do opt for a neutral-hued dress, consider adding a pop of color with accessories or a statement piece of jewelry. As for footwear, I recommend opting for dressy heels over sneakers to elevate the overall look and make a memorable impression.
