The perfect christening outfit
What to wear to a christening: dress code & inspiration for a christening outfit
Have you been invited to a christening? You may be wondering what the appropriate dress code for a christening is. It can be a challenge to find an outfit that is suitable for not only the mass in the church, but also family photos and the celebration afterwards. Whether as a parent, godparent or guest, your outfit should express the significance of the occasion while still being comfortable and staying true to your style. We'll tell you what you need to know about christening outfits and give you outfit ideas for the child being christened, godparents and guests alike.
Christening outfit: dress code for the perfect outfit for a christening
Your christening outfit should match the occasion without making you feel awkward or overdressed. Therefore, choosing the perfect outfit for a christening requires a little know-how. We will tell you what you need to know and help you pick the perfect outfit.
What to wear to a christening: dos and don’ts
Christening outfit: dos
Style an understated, dressy look: even if there is no strict dress code, a stylish and understated outfit is always appropriate. After all, a christening is a dressy occasion and deserves an outfit that emphasises the significance of the event.
Look for appropriate cuts and lengths: dresses or skirts in midi or maxi lengths are ideal. Your shoulders should be covered. Use a cardigan, blazer or light shawl to make any outfit suitable for church.
Choose light, friendly colours: pastel colours such as rosé, mint, light yellow or cream look fresh, dressy and calm. Alternatively, elegant jewel tones such as navy blue, dark green or subtle prints such as dots, floral patterns or stripes also work very well.
Style an understated, festive look: even if there is no strict dress code, a stylishly understated outfit always looks appropriate. After all, a christening is a festive moment and deserves an outfit that emphasises the occasion in style.
Look for appropriate cuts and lengths: Dresses or skirts in midi or maxi lengths are ideal. Your shoulders should be covered - a cardigan, blazer or light shawl will make any outfit suitable for church.
Christening outfit: don’ts
Don’t show too much skin: Low necklines, off-the-shoulder tops and short skirts are out of place in a church setting. Skin-tight dresses also quickly look inappropriate.
Don’t go overboard: As a guest, you should neither appear more glamorous than the christening mother nor more fashionable than the godparents. Your look can be chic, but not over the top.
Avoid all-black looks: Even if black is elegant, it quickly looks too austere and sad for a christening. If you prefer darker shades, combine them with light accessories or small colour accents.
Be careful about wearing jeans: if the christening is casual and informal, your outfit can also be a little more laid-back. In this case, go for dark, well-fitting jeans combined with a blouse and pumps. However, destroyed looks, light-coloured washes or baggy styles are out of place at a christening, even at more laid-back celebrations.
For secular naming ceremonies outside of the context of church, there is usually no fixed dress code. The setting is often more laid-back and the dress code more individualistic. It's best to ask the parents directly what style of dress code they prefer for the ceremony to be on the safe side.
Christening gowns: typical christening outfits for the child being baptised
The focus of every christening is the child being baptised, regardless of what age he or she is. The christening itself is usually celebrated with family and friends, and special moments are captured in photos. Naturally, this calls for a beautiful outfit for the child being christened that does justice to this meaningful event.
Traditionally, the baby is dressed in a christening gown, especially in Catholic churches. The gown is usually white, long and embellished with lace, tulle or fine embroidery. When choosing a christening gown, make sure that the material feels comfortable and is breathable. For babies, the gown can be quite long. For older children, it should be short enough so that they don’t trip over it when walking. Delicate colour accents in pink or light blue are allowed and make the christening dress unique.
Christening gowns: girls’ christening outfits
Can’t decide between a dress or a two-piece outfit? White or pastel tones? When it comes to christening outfits for girls, there are many beautiful options. However, there are also a few things to consider. We'll show you which looks will make your little one stand out.
Ideas for the perfect girl’s christening outfit
A sweet christening dress: an enchanting classic
Whether you opt for a traditional white outfit, a playful floral pattern or delicate pastel colours, a christening dress for girls is always a beautiful classic. Lightweight fabrics such as cotton ensure comfort, while small details such as lace, bows or embroidery give the christening dress a touch of elegance.
Girls’ two-piece christening outfits: a practical & stylish combination
Two-piece outfits, such as a cute top with a lace collar paired with a skirt or smart pants, are a great alternative to a classic dress. They allow your child to move about and can be changed quickly if necessary. Colours such as white, cream, rosé or pastel tones are particularly suitable for a christening.
A romper or jumpsuit as a girls’ christening outfit: cute & cosy
Chic rompers or elegant jumpsuits are the perfect choice for small children. Whether you opt for a version with frills, lace trim, prints or embroidery, these one-piece outfits not only look cute, but also offer maximum comfort.
Choose a christening outfit that allows your child plenty of room to move about in and doesn't scratch or pinch. If your child is still a baby, it is always a good idea to have a change of clothes for them, just in case something goes wrong at dinner or during the party.
Boys’ christening outfits: how to find the perfect christening outfit for boys
There are lots of great options for boys’ christening outfits, from elegant one-piece outfits to mini suits. Here you will find inspiration for modern, child-friendly christening outfits for boys:
Ideas for the perfect boys’ christening outfit
Boys’ christening outfit with a bow tie and braces: like a little gentleman
For an ultra-cute look, pair a soft T-shirt, comfortable pants and carefully coordinated details such as a bow tie and braces. With this look, your little darling is sure to be the centre of attention at the ceremony. This christening outfit for boys looks dressy without being too formal.
A shirt, trousers & waistcoat as a boys’ christening outfit: classic & elegant
For parents who prefer things to be a little more traditional, a fine shirt with matching trousers is a great choice. Add a little waistcoat on top to give the outfit a dressy touch without being too constricting for your little one.
A cute bodysuit with trousers as a boys’ christening outfit: simple & cosy yet smart
Sometimes less is more. A beautiful bodysuit with a collar or lovely details such as embroidery can be just perfect for a christening. Paired with comfortable pants, you can create a simple but dressy outfit in no time at all that will give your baby plenty of room to move about in.
It's best to dress your child in several thin layers. They can be put on or taken off as the weather changes. Many churches tend to be cool even in summer, which is why you should take a soft and cosy blanket or jacket with you.
Christening outfit for moms and godparents
Being elected godmother or godfather is a special privilege. Godparents are guests of honour at the ceremony, and therefore, your outfit should be a little more elegant and chicer than that of the other guests. You can find ideas for the perfect christening outfit here:
A chic christening dress: an elegant dress is a wonderful choice for moms or godmothers. Flowing fabrics, delicate colours and subtle patterns create a dressy look that is both stylish and restrained.
Jumpsuit as a modern outfit for the christening: a well-cut jumpsuit is a modern, stylish and dressy alternative to a classic christening dress. This look can be enhanced with a blazer, statement earrings or fine sandals, depending on the venue.
An elegant trouser suit as a christening outfit: a chic two-piece suit in pastel shades or neutral beige looks elegant and chic. It can be enhanced and personalised with a silk blouse, pumps or jewellery.
A classic suit as an outfit for godparents: for men, a well-groomed look with a well-fitting suit is ideal. You can add a tie or leave it out, depending on the setting of the christening. Lighter colours such as beige, blue or grey look fresh and smart.
Women’s outfits for a christening: outfit ideas for guests
As a guest at a christening, you should opt for a stylish look that is not over the top. Subtle colours, elegant cuts and an understated style are ideal for making a good impression at the christening. Here are a few ideas for different christening outfits for women:
Women’s christening outfit ideas
Christening dresses for women: feminine & dressy
A beautiful christening dress is probably the most traditional choice for female christening guests. Whether you opt for a dress in delicate pastel colours, with floral prints or simple elegance, a knee-length or maxi dress with covered shoulders looks respectful and classy at the same time.
A smart top with trousers or a skirt as a christening outfit: comfortable and stylish
You can pair a chic blouse or a dressy top with a skirt or smart trousers. This is the perfect choice for anyone who likes to be comfortable yet elegant. A flared skirt adds a touch of lightness to your christening outfit, while palazzo trousers look modern and elegant.
A jumpsuit as a christening outfit for women: simple & modern
A stylish jumpsuit is a great alternative to a dress. For a christening outfit, opt for a jumpsuit in soft colours or with subtle patterns. You can adapt your outfit to fit in with the setting by adding a blazer and clutch.
Men’s christening outfits: important information for christening guests
The same christenings rules apply to men. Their look should be well-groomed, stylish and suitable for a more formal setting yet not too stiff, as for a wedding. Here are two ideas for outfits that are suitable for any christening:
Ideas for the perfect christening outfit for men
A suit as a men’s christening outfit: classic & stylish
As a guest of a christening, a suit is always a safe choice if you want to look elegant. Light colours such as grey, beige or blue look modern and light. A shirt and discreet accessories such as a handkerchief or tie will complete your look effortlessly. If you want to go for a slightly more casual version, you can leave out the tie.
A blazer and trousers or chinos as a christening outfit for men: smart & laid back
A light-coloured blazer with well-fitting trousers in beige, navy or taupe looks smart but not too formal. Add a simple shirt and leather shoes to finish off this look.
Conclusion: the perfect christening outfit is simple and elegant
The perfect christening outfit is not about standing out but rather honouring the significance of the occasion with a suitable outfit. Flowing fabrics, soft colours, comfortable cuts and an understanding of the event make all the difference. If you feel comfortable in your christening outfit, you'll radiate from the inside out and make your outfit unforgettable.
