How To Decide What to Wear to a Daytime Event

Spring is a season filled with daytime events like graduations, family gatherings, and conferences, but figuring out what to wear can be tricky. When it comes to deciding what to wear to a daytime event, it’s important to dress appropriately so that you look polished, put together, and confident.

Figure out the dress code

There’s nothing worse than coming to an event only to realize that you are completely under or overdressed. Ask ahead of time what the dress code is. Reach out to the person organizing the event, or if you’re not comfortable with that, reach out to acquaintances attending. At least if you’re all on the same page, you’ll have a better idea of what you should wear. And when in doubt, refer to my guide to figuring out what those dress codes really mean.

Check the weather

In spring, many events are held outside, but even if they are inside, it’s important to be mindful of the weather so you can dress accordingly. Check the weather ahead of time so you can plan your outfit, but also make sure that you check the day of and take into account the time of day. If the event goes from day to night, you’ll want to make sure you bring a jacket or something to stay warm as the evening goes on.

Additionally, it’s important to be mindful of the venue and the terrain. Ladies, this means that you shouldn’t wear stiletto heels if the event is outside on a lawn or in the dirt. No one wants to sink into the grass or dirt. Try a block heel or wedge to give you height. The thicker heel will keep you from sinking into the ground, and as an added bonus these shoes are typically more comfortable. Also be aware of the terrain if you’re thinking of wearing a long dress. Long dresses will often get dirty at the bottom when you’re at an outdoor venue, so make sure you’re okay with that.

For both men and women, just remember that if you’re outside, your shoes will likely get some sort of dirt on them. To be extra safe you can always spray your shoes ahead of time with a leather protector so that dirt and grime easily comes off.

Make sure you’re comfortable

Confidence is the best accessory, and if you’re confident in what you’re wearing, you’ll feel more confident in yourself. When deciding what to wear to a daytime event, you want to look good, but don’t opt for looking good at the expense of your comfort. Make sure you’re in clothing that both looks and feels good.

For this particular outfit I felt like the dress was too short, so to combat this issue, I layered on a slip skirt underneath. This made the dress longer which made me feel more comfortable in it, but also added another textural element to the outfit with the lace. If you’re uncomfortable in shoes that you can’t stand in, or in clothing that’s too tight/ill fitted, you won’t have a good time. People will be able to sense your discomfort and/or the fact that you’re not enjoying yourself, which could make them shy away from you.

Make sure that you’re dressed appropriately, but don’t try to break in new shoes the day of the event. Try on your outfit ahead of time and make sure that everything fits and feels good. This way you won’t have to worry about your outfit and you can focus on enjoying yourself.

Stick To Something Family Approved

If you’re going to a daytime event with family (i.e. a graduation, wedding, or family get together) there’s nothing worse than suffering through hours of your family (or friends) picking apart your outfit. Be on the safe side and wear something that will appease them; it’s for your own sanity. 

You can still dress like yourself and bring individuality to an outfit, but listen to that inner voice. If you know someone at the family event won’t approve, go for another option. You don’t have to dress for the most conservative person in the room, but aim somewhere in the middle. It’s just not worth the torture. 

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Nothing kills good vibes like a bad outfit that you’re either uncomfortable in or that your family doesn’t like, so follow these guidelines for figuring out what to wear to a daytime event. And remember, try on your outfit ahead of time so you don’t find yourself with a wardrobe crisis on the big day.