Attending an engagement party...What to wear and bring?!?!?

Question

My girl friend is newly engaged and having a "formal" dinner party. I only have simple skirts & plain tops: this acceptable attire or should I buy something a tiny bit more fancy? I know gifts are optional but I want to bring a small something: I'm worried I'll get a gift they already have or won't use; or I'll get them a gift card from Walmart when they really wanna shop at pier 1 :Please make suggestions of useful or unique cost effective gifts

Answer 1

Typically you don't bring gifts to an engagement party since you are merely celebrating the engagement and they haven't had time to register anywhere yet. You really only bring gifts to showers and the wedding. But... if you really want to bring something, I'd bring a nice bottle of wine in a cute little cloth wine bag. You can get an adorable key and heart shaped bottle opener at Bed Bath and Beyond for $1.50 to tie to the top of the bag. That is a very classy gift without breaking the bank.

As for how formal the dinner party is, I'd call the bride to be and ask her what she thinks or even ask her what she's wearing. You see if she wants to go shopping "with" you and have a girlfriends day of lunch and shopping. Don't stress about it all. All in all, its just a dinner to celebrate the two coming together as one. Not to see who can dress the best or bring the best gift.

Wine is always a nice jester.

Answer 2

Standard engagement gifts (which are definitely optional):  a picture frame, a pair of wine glasses, candles, that sort of thing.  Nothing large (I would say under $20) or too practical (no kitchen gadgets or linens, for instance.)

As for your attire, wear what you own and dress it up with accessories and cute shoes.  A fancy necklace and some high heels go a long way to formalize an outfit.  Save your dress budget for the wedding, where you'll likely need something fancy as well.

Answer 3

A little black dress and accessoriess or a simple casual chic pant

suit with elegant assesscories