What To Wear On Your Hen Do As The Bride

2 days ago

Style inspiration for your hen

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So you’ve secured the wedding venue, found your dream wedding dress and booked your spray tan. Now it’s time to start planning your hen do looks. Hen trips have got bigger and better in recent years: gone are the days of gimmicky paraphernalia and OTT fancy dress, nowadays it’s all about fun themes, chic outfits and personalised accessories. Need some inspiration? Whether you’re jetting for a sun-dappled trip to Ibiza, spending a day gallivanting around London or renting a countryside villa in the Cotswolds, we’ve created the ultimate hen do style guide for brides, complete with tips from the experts.

How To Build A Hen Do Wardrobe

Naturally, the majority of hen do outfits tend to be white, but that’s not to say you can’t have fun by bringing in some colour (‘something blue, before I say I do’ is a popular theme at the moment). And, of course, you’ll need to adapt your packing list to the location and activities planned. If your maid of honour or bridesmaids are planning the itinerary, ask them to give you some pointers: will you need swimwear? A party dress? Cute pyjamas? Whatever you’re after, here are some elements to consider.

Repurpose What You Have

The first place you should look for your hen do outfits? Your own wardrobe. Dig out some pieces from parties and holidays over the years, says Georgie Le Roux, founder of bridal brand Gigi & Olive, and jazz them up for the occasion. ‘That white summer dress you love? Add a personalised mini veil and you are instantly hen do ready. Got a cute plane outfit? Pop on one of our embroidered caps and you are officially in bride mode. You really do not need to buy an entirely new bridal wardrobe – it is all about clever styling.’

Shop Second Hand

Don’t forget about the second hand stores, either: Vinted, Vestiaire Collective and Depop all offer an abundance of bridal clothing and accessories, many just worn once. Rental can be great for hen dos too – check out brands like Rites, By Rotation and HURR, which have lots of sparkly party dresses on their books.

Avoid Clichés

Does the idea of a stereotypical hen do fill you with dread? ‘Skip the plastic sashes and opt for something that feels a little more “you”,’ suggests Ingemae Kotze, founder of swimwear brand Away That Day. ‘Think beautiful embroidery, linen veils and personalised details that elevate the moment.’ Many bridal brands offer personalised accessories, from scrunchies to veils and totes, offering a bit of a hen do edge without going overboard.

Have Fun

While the majority of brides prefer their hen do to veer towards the classier nowadays (as shown in this survey), that’s certainly not to say you can’t have fun with your outfits. Don’t be afraid to incorporate sparkles, feathers and sequins, and go all out on themes – whether that’s 70s disco, cowgirl or festival.

Get Inspiration From Social Media

If you don’t know where to start with your hen do wardrobe, sweep the net for some inspiration. ‘Pinterest is your best friend, but do not underestimate a good scroll on Instagram or TikTok,’ says Le Roux. ‘There is so much bridal style inspiration out there, just search #bridaltok on TikTok.’