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The stereotypical birthday will include a surprise party, dollar store streamers, and the promise of cake. The star of the show (which is you) is likely dressed to impress.
Whether it’s a fancy cocktail dress or a Gucci splurge to celebrate your 20s, finding the perfect outfit is a must if you intend on posting a photo of it on Instagram.
If your b-day is weeks away, it’s time to start planning ahead of time. To help you get started, I’ve come up with five birthday outfit ideas that are sure to impress your guests.
What Makes Up A Birthday Outfit?
There’s no such thing as a traditional birthday outfit. Ultimately, the perfect outfit depends on your personal relationship with fashion.
From cottage-core to hypebeast, the ideal birthday OOTD can be a fancy mini dress or a snazzy tracksuit (and everything in between!).
What Are Some Popular Birthday Outfit Ideas?
When it comes to birthday outfit ideas, most people usually envision the ‘2.0 version’ of their current style.
This isn’t the time to dress casually, of course, as we typically gravitate towards extravagant cocktail gowns, matching sets, or that cute shirt that you’ve been meaning to wear.
If you’re in need of some fashion inspo, here are a few of the most popular birthday outfit ideas to consider.
5 Birthday Outfit Ideas
If you’re a TikTok addict, then there’s a good chance that you’re already familiar with the ‘break-up dress.’
Created by Mirror Palais, this stunning cocktail number features underwire cups, rhinestone embellishments, and a gorgeous beige underlayer with glitter chiffon on top.
While it’s commonly recognized for ‘ex-revenge seeking,’ it can make for the perfect birthday outfit.
Not a fan of body-con dresses? If so, no worries. My birthday outfit ideas are designed to appeal to every celebrant, including those not fond of showing too much skin.
Case in point, this cute OOTD features a matching set composed of a collared shirt and high-waisted trousers. Complemented with a white crop top and open-toe sandals, this is the perfect ensemble to don during the warmer seasons.
The ‘belle of the ball’ gown is typically reserved for the birthday celebrant. If you want to feel like a princess on your special day, then I highly recommend donning a full-length dress.
Created by Selkie, this magical number features a floral print, a ruched bodice, and puffed sleeves. I’d suggest swapping your Cinderella heels for boots instead for added juxtaposition.
Casual birthday parties are all the rage these days. It’s great news to hear, especially for those not keen on wearing tops and tails. If the occasion calls for bar-hopping instead of extravagant soirees, this ‘birthday outfit ideas’ guide suggests this stylish contender.
Composed of a blue jacket, a striped sweater, black pants, and matching loafers, this cute yet composed look keeps things low-key for public outings.
If your birthday calls for a casual visit to the city, then it’s a good idea to sport your best streetwear look. Instead of opting for a loud-and-proud hypebeast outfit, I’d recommend opting for the hipster approach.
This ‘birthday outfit ideas’ contender features a plaid jacket, a graphic tee, black pants, and a pair of stylish Converse sneakers. Complemented with a gold necklace, it’s the perfect look for record shopping and thrifting.
Fashion Tips To Avoid With Birthday Outfits
The best birthday outfit ideas require you to get out of your comfort zone. However, that shouldn’t excuse poor OOTD coordination. Don’t get me wrong, I’m all for wearing what you want—but there are a few style no-nos to consider on your big day.
If you’re keen on being the center of attention in a positive way, here are some fashion tips to avoid when putting together your birthday outfit.
- Your everyday style: Birthday outfits shouldn’t be boring. As such, I don’t recommend wearing your usual pair of jeans, tee, and hoodie. B-days call for a major style change.
- The ‘birthday suit’: I don’t recommend getting naked for your big day. This also includes tacky jumpsuits and one-pieces.
- Birthday paraphernalia: Clothing that has ‘birthday girl’ written on it, images such as colorful streamers, cake, and other decorative emblems are usually considered cheesy. Plus, you can only wear said outfit once a year, which isn’t very sustainable.
Best Places To Buy Birthday Outfits
Before this ‘birthday outfit ideas’ guide concludes, I thought it best to share some notable recommendations. Here are a few stores to consider checking out if you’re looking to treat yourself.
- Moda Operandi
- Reformation
- Nordstrom
- Selkie
- Farfetch
Final Thoughts
The best birthday outfit ideas call for a 50/50 ratio of comfort and elevated style. On the one hand, you should feel ‘at home’ with your chosen ensemble.
On the other hand, you shouldn’t use your b-day as an excuse to wear the same old OOTD. This special event happens once a year, after all, so it should be used as an opportunity to look your very best.
Looking for more outfit ideas? We’ve got you covered:
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