What to wear to a christening
A christening is a daytime celebration that starts in church, so clothes should be neat and respectful, not evening wear. Light and pastel colours, midi dresses and suits without strict rules all work. Godparents dress a little more formally than other guests.
For women
- A midi dress or skirt with a blouse, covering the shoulders
- Smart trousers with a jacket
- Comfortable low heels – you may be holding the baby
For men
- A suit or a blazer and trousers
- A shirt; a tie for the godfather
- Leather shoes or loafers
What to avoid
- Bare shoulders and low necklines in church
- Evening gowns and sequins
- White – traditionally the baby's christening colour
- Delicate fabrics that stain easily (silk while holding a baby)
Tips
- For the godmother: clothes comfortable for holding a baby – no sharp brooches or dangling jewellery.
- The party afterwards is often outdoors – bring a jacket.
For godparents and parents
Godparents stand beside the baby and appear in most photos, so they dress a little more formally than other guests: a suit and tie for the godfather, an elegant dress or suit for the godmother. Parents often coordinate colours with each other and with the christening gown. For children, comfortable but festive clothes. Churches are cold in autumn and winter – bring a warm layer.
Semi-formal
Women: A midi or knee-length dress / an elegant suit + heels or smart flats.
Men: A suit, or a blazer with tailored trousers + a dress shirt; tie depending on the event.
Smart casual
Women: Dark jeans or trousers + a good blouse or knit + a blazer + elegant shoes.
Men: Dark jeans or chinos + a shirt, polo or knit + (blazer) + leather shoes or clean sneakers.
Garden party attire
Women: A light midi dress + a wide-brim hat + block heels.
Men: A light linen or cotton suit + shirt, no tie + loafers.
Frequently asked
01What should a godmother wear?
An elegant midi dress or suit in a light or pastel colour, covering the shoulders, with comfortable shoes. Avoid white – it's for the baby.
02Can you wear jeans to a christening?
For church, better not. At a very informal celebration, dark jeans with a blazer or good top are fine for guests, but not godparents.
03What should a godfather wear?
A suit (lighter in summer, darker in winter), a shirt and tie, leather shoes.
04What to wear to a winter christening?
A knit or wool midi dress with tights, a cashmere sweater with a skirt, or a wool suit; for men, a darker suit and a coat.