What to wear to a christening or baptism

Appropriate and stylish outfit ideas to help you decide what to wear to a christening.

what to wear to a christening outfit ideas

by Lorna White |
Updated on

A christening is such a special occasion, and while choosing a christening gift may be easy, picking a trendy outfit for the special occasion can take a little more time. When deciding what to wear to a christening or baby naming ceremony you may want to opt for soft silhouettes and more playful colours and prints to celebrate the little one's ceremony.

Christening wear doesn't have to be as formal a dress code in comparison to if you're picking out a wedding guest outfit, however this is still an important event and while dressing up is nice, you can also think smart casual co-ords when picking out what to wear. You may want to combine bright colours with floaty midi or maxi dresses, and if you're attending a church christening, you could look at choosing long sleeves or a jacket to respect the venue.

Dresses with sleeves, smart trousers, and flattering tops are all excellent choices to help you look and feel great on the day. If you are a close family member or a Godmother then it’s a good idea to check with the parents of the child and see how formal they’ll be.

If you are going for a classic suit look it's important to avoid dressing in top-to-toe navy or black. If you want to wear a dark suit adding a splash of colour with a blouse and pairing it with a bright handbag or shoes, would really help keep the outfit playful and in-keeping with the celebrations.

Keep in mind that most christenings take place in draughty churches, so a coat or warm cover-up is a good idea whatever the time of year.

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Christening Outfits - The Relaxed Look

Blue Halter Neck Polka Dot Wide Leg Jumpsuit1 of 3

Blue Halter Neck Polka Dot Wide Leg Jumpsuit

Metallic Smooth Silver Clutch Bag2 of 3

Metallic Smooth Silver Clutch Bag

black padded heel3 of 3

Black Padded Heel

If you're not going to be part of the main baptism - so, you're not the parent or Godparent - you can opt for a more relaxed, informal look while still impressing with style and eye-catching accessories.

This jumpsuit is a great choice for looking the part while still feeling casual and comfortable, plus, it can be worn to all sorts of occasions after the ceremony. A pop of colour from a clutch bag spices up the outfit without being over-the-top, and a small heel on these shoes makes them comfy all day long.

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Christening Outfits - The Budget Look

Floral Mesh Dress1 of 3

Floral Mesh Dress

black court shoe2 of 3

Block Heel

straw hat christening outfit3 of 3

Straw Hat

Been invited to a christening but don't want to break the bank with an expensive new outfit? This budget look will wow while remaining affordable and wearable. The hat is a real Yours Team favourite - you can wear this throughout the summer at all sorts of events. You might want to not opt for the hat during the winter months. However we definitely recommend these block-heeled shoes, as they're the ultimate in comfortable footwear.

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Christening Outfits - The Smart Look

Helen McAlinden Travel Ankle Grazer Trousers1 of 4

Helen McAlinden Travel Ankle Grazer Trousers

Classic Bow Tie Silk Blouse2 of 4

Classic Bow Tie Silk Blouse

quilted block mule3 of 4

Quilted Block Mule

blush clutch bag4 of 4

Blush Clutch Bag

Want a smart outfit for a christening? This ensemble has it all - from subtle pastels to a dash of style with the handbag, and some pretty neutral shoes to get envious looks from the rest of the party. All these pieces can be worn with other outfits, too, making them accessible and long-lasting.

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Christening Outfits - The Formal Look

Green crepe knitted sleeves1 of 3

Marr Green Crepe Knitted Sleeves Dress

Glitter Clutch Bag2 of 3

Glitter Clutch Bag

Embellished Court Heels3 of 3

Embellished Court Heels

If you're going to be a Godparent then this show-stopping green dress is just gorgeous for a formal christening outfit. A splash of sparkle from the clutch bag and sandals and this makes a christening outfit that will look perfect in the photos (just try to avoid the baby throwing up on you).

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Winter Christening look

Navy Glitter Lace Fit & Flare Dress1 of 4

Navy Glitter Lace Fit & Flare Dress

Twill Belted Ivory Wrap Coat2 of 4

Twill Belted Ivory Wrap Coat

Leather Slingback Block Heel Shoes3 of 4

Leather Slingback Block Heel Shoes

Cross Body Light Blue Clutch Bag4 of 4

Cross Body Light Blue Clutch Bag

Wondering what to wear to a christening in winter? If you're going to an autumn or winter christening, you'll want to feel warm and cosy, but still look the part. If the ceremony is taking place in a church, you'll probably be feeling very chilly, so it's worth investing in a stylish winter coat that you can keep on.

We're all looking for clothes that make us look and feel good, which is why we're always on the hunt for flattering dresses like this lace number. So after the ceremony you can reveal this gorgeous lace dress, you might also want to wear a low heeled boot for added comfort, in case the weather is a little icy or even snowy.

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