Style guide: what to wear for a christening

First, to avoid confusion, let’s clarify an oft-discussed query:

Is there a difference between a baptism and a baptism?

In many faiths, the word baptism has the same meaning as the term baptism.

However according to the comparison site Differentiate, even though the words are used interchangeably, there is a subtle difference.

Baptism strictly refers to the ceremony of baptism – to baptize means to give a name to – while baptism is technically one of the seven sacraments of the Catholic Church.

However, in terms of what to wear to either of these official events, you can treat them as one and the same.

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Baptism Dresource code

In cooler climates, the majority of baptisms and baptisms take place during the spring and summer months, but places of worship can be cold all year round, so it is wise to start your christening outfit planning with a quality jacket.

This goes for both men and women, although after the initial choice of coat, things are decidedly easier for male guests.

Dress code for women

For women, planning the perfect christening outfit can be a lot more fun than deciding what to wear to a wedding.

Unlike weddings, you don’t need to avoid colors (get knocked out of white, cream, and faded pink).

Who what to wear advise sticking to tailored silhouettes, cute sets, monochrome sets and of course the must-have jacket, pashmina or coat to throw over your shoulders if you’re heading to a church.

Floral midi dresses are a staple of christening outfits, and you can’t really go wrong if you want to play it safe with something like this yellow floral number from The Iconic, which you can buy here for $ 109.

Black and white outfits are equally chic and the classic color means you can’t really go wrong.

This mid-length camisole summer dress from ASOS takes the simple undertones to the next level with raw edges in black, and you can buy it here for just $ 44.80.

Or if you’re feeling a little more daring, why not show up in something unexpected like head-to-toe red – or just one shade of any color, for that matter!

Pairing two pieces together is ideal for this and there are currently many color options on the market.

This bespoke green blazer and belted pants in the same fabric from Boohoo, which you can buy here for $ 62.50, would make a great forward-thinking christening outfit for a spring christening.

White dresses are perfect for christenings, and we especially love this V-neck lace and crepe mini number from Needle and Thread, and you can buy it here for $ 118.

Dress code for men

A costume is certainly the most popular choice of christening outfit for males, and there really is no rulebook beyond that, unless otherwise specified by parents or host.

Idle man advise the goal for men is just to look “smart”, and suggest dressing as you would for a wedding or any other casual chic function.

A gray striped suit or White shirt is a timeless classic, and can be paired with a tie in bright colors or dark shades depending on the period of the year.

Ben Sherman is a very popular and well established brand with a great selection of suits including this gray blazer, which you can buy from The Iconic for $ 369 here.

A navy blue or charcoal check suit like this trendy one River Island Blue Check Skinny Suit Jacket is another cutting edge option for baptisms, and you can buy it for $ 180 here.

Looking to have a little fun with something quirky for a winter baptism?

Try this slim Bailey suit jacket in trendy burgundy from Tarocash for $ 199.99 here.

Summer baptisms allows for a less formal outfit and allows you to experiment with lighter colors and fabrics.

Pale grays and stone beiges work well for summer baptisms.

Something like this slim fit plaid suit set from ASOS would work well, and you can buy it here for $ 210.

Baptismal accessories for men

Men should keep baptismal accessories to a minimum, the same rule applies to shoes.

Although it is appropriate to Dress up, christenings aren’t meant to encourage a garish display of wealth, so stick to muted shoe tones like black, brown, or navy.

In winter, avoid easily scuffed and muddy materials like suede.

These black brogues from Double Oak Mills are a steal at just $ 99.99 and would do the job well for a variety of formal occasions.