There’s no standard hen party anymore — and, they’re not all about alcohol and clubbing as some people might think when they hear ‘hen do’! Instead, it’s all about celebrating the bride-to-be as she surrounds herself with her closest friends and bridesmaids.

The hen party usually involves something that the bride enjoys — so, whether this is a spa day, afternoon tea or a night of dancing: what should you be wearing?

Spa days

If you and the girls are heading on a relaxing spa day, you still want to look stylish for the photographs while wearing something comfortable for lazing around the pool.

A spa day is ideal for sipping bubbly, dipping in and out of the hot tub and gossiping in the sauna — an all-round winner for a girly day out. But when you pop out of the jacuzzi, you want to dry off quickly — so a bathrobe is essential. Why not order all the girls matching robes with ‘bride’ and ‘hen’ on the back — perfect for that Instagram post by the pool!

Now, it’s time to decide on swimwear. A full swimsuit is usually more acceptable in a spa rather than a bikini you’d wear to the beach — but put on what you feel most comfortable in. If you’re going to be lying by the pool all day, you want something that you feel comfy both in and out of the water. Don’t hesitate in wearing a swimsuit with a pop of colour or embellishment, like frills. You’re at a party after all! And make sure you pack your fluffy sliders and flip-flops for the perfect base to any spa pool outfit.

Spa lunches and evening drinks are always popular, so consider what you’re going to wear to these, too. Luxury spas sometimes have a certain dress code you should bear in mind — so keep it classy and understated. Peplum tops and skinny-sit trousers look gorgeous for lunch dates and evening get-togethers or why not opt for a stripe, culotte jumpsuit with a belt and pair of suede, ankle-wrap sandals? Finish with a tote bag or quilted clutch and be prepared for all eventualities at your hen spa weekend.

Partying

A hen do is the perfect excuse to take your girls’ nights out to the next level! No matter where you go, you’ll want to look sensational on a hen do night out. So, plan your outfit ahead of schedule.

In SS18, styles that reflect the amazing trends of the 1980s are in. Go for high-waisted shorts and a square-shoulder satin blouse or try a ruched velvet dress with huge hoops and a chunky necklace. Fusing different, bold shades in one look is also a top trend from recent global fashion shows, but don’t forget that asymmetric cuts, figure-hugging fabrics and bare shoulders are also ideal for the party look. Go for an off-the-shoulder bodycon that emphasise your curves and match with statement jewellery and killer heels to lengthen your legs.

During-the-day cocktails

It’s daytime, but this is a very special occasion and you still want to look dressed up. So, what can you do?

If this is the chilled event before the big night time event, then you need a look that takes you from am to pm without the need of a costume change. Think skinny leather jeans with mid-heel boots and a shimmery, metallic-embellished cami with a subtle diamante head chain, or pull on a high-waisted print skirt and match with a crop top or bodysuit and strappy heels.

You can even pull on a glamourous, bare-shoulder shift dress with cute pumps and a neutral kimono for cocktails, then simply switch to stilettos, throw on statement jewellery and roll-up your kimono so it fits in your envelope bag for the night!

Afternoon tea

Perhaps your soon-to-be-bride is a no-fuss kind of girl and wants all her nearest and dearest to attend a fun — but sophisticated — afternoon tea for her hen do. If so, make sure all the girls put the same amount of outfit-prep effort in as they would for a big night out by investing in chic occasion dresses. Think elegant and fun — bold floral prints, pastel colours, and stylish hem and necklines evoke the perfect air of old-time glamour.

Frill-front dresses in a baby pink, subtle peach, soft lemon, or powder blue shade will look ideal for an afternoon tea hen do. Wrap-round and Bardot styles will also ooze sophistication and offer figure-flattering outlines, or you can go for simple but effective chic in a midi or maxi dress with a shot chiffon jacket in a complementary shade. We recommend dressing up your look with simple jewellery, a clutch bag and low-heel court shoes — dressed to impress but comfortable enough for a few hours of food and drinks.

Girly nights in

Everyone loves a girls’ night in — perhaps even as much as a night out. If you’re celebrating your hen do indoors with your best friends, then make sure comfort is your priority.

Why not embrace the athleisure trend that’s taking the world by storm right now — spearheaded by celebrity fashionistas like Rihanna? Pair a pair of skinny joggers with a casual crop top and over-sized jacket or go for leggings and high-top trainers with a slouch sweater and headscarf for a contemporary, urban look.

A cute pair of shorts or even an on-trend skort with a block-colour cami or plain tee would also get the balance between style and comfort right at a night-in hen do. And if you’re wondering about footwear, we say go for sandals, flats or espadrilles.

Dressing for hen parties can be simple. Keep these hen do style tips in mind and make sure you pack the right outfits ahead of your next hen experience!

*Collaborative post.