"Some people in this world were born to be hosts and hostesses, while others require a little more training. Regardless of which side of the scale you fall on, deciding what to wear when you’re hosting a party can be difficult. You want to look and feel your best, while also being comfortable enough to be doing the running, cooking, greeting, and everything else that comes with entertaining. While you might have general party outfit ideas, finding just the right one for hosting is a more unique feat.
There’s not really a strict playbook when it comes to the dress code for hosts, but you’ll most likely want to look presentable and put-together when inviting guests into your home or hosting them at a venue. No matter the occasion, you want to show your personal style and wear an outfit that’s versatile enough for all of your duties.
That’s why we’ve put together easy, stylish, and functional looks that you can always turn to when hostessing—whether it’s a small and casual gathering or a large and fancy soirée. Check out our six hostess outfit ideas below.
Hostess Outfit Ideas: What to Wear When You’re Hosting Any Event
1. All black with silver accessories
You’ll always feel chic in head-to-toe black. Make this classic ruched top and high-waisted trousers combo a little more festive with coordinating silver accessories, including a fun chain rope belt.
top | trousers | earrings | belt | heels
2. A go-to satin dress
Every woman needs a dress in their closet that they never have to second guess. This gorgeous satin dress—with its rich brown color and pretty bloussant sleeves—paired with simple accessories will have you feeling both confident and comfortable.
dress | heels | bag | earrings
3. Casual but put-together
Whether you’re hosting a cozy football Sunday or a low-key dinner party, it’s definitely possible to look casual while still appearing (and feeling!) put-together. Go with a classic combo of a pullover sweater and wide-leg jeans, and top it off with an adorable apron.
sweater | jeans | flats | apron | earrings
4. A special birthday look
So it’s a day all about celebrating you… now what do you wear?! Milestone age or not, your birthday is the perfect reason to get all dressed up and have a little fun with your outfit. Try a standout sequined dress with equally bold accessories for a look that you’ll remember forever.
dress | heels | bag | earrings
5. Elevated and classic
From a nicer dinner party at home to hosting at a restaurant, sometimes you need to level up to a look that just exudes class and elegance. Opt for a timeless midi slip skirt paired with a cardigan set, metallic bag, and kitten heels, and you’ll be feeling like Meghan Markle herself.
skirt | cardigan set | heels | metallic bag
6. Fun with a little edge
Hosting a party is the ideal excuse to step out of your comfort zone a bit and wear something unique. The statement piece in this look is the metallic pants, but they’re perfectly balanced with a classic button-up top and bow details.
button-up | similar button-up | pants | heels | hair bow