QUINCEANERA CHARM / Oct 21, 2022

WHAT TO WEAR TO A QUINCEAÑERA: FASHION DOS AND DON’TS FOR GUESTS

If you've scored an invite to a quinceañera, get ready for a great time.

A quinceañera is a celebration of a girl's 15th birthday, marking her entrance into womanhood. Typically these are big, lavish events with lots of food, dancing, and most exciting of all, fabulous outfits.

But you must be wondering: what do I wear to a quinceañera?

To help you find the perfect outfit as a guest, we're walking you through some dos and don'ts — plus party-ready dresses from GLS Collective for inspiration.

The Dos and Don’ts of Quinceañera Guest Attire

Do Wear Formal Attire

When deciding what to wear to a quinceañera, keep in mind that it isn’t your ordinary birthday party — it’s a big, grand celebration. So, unless the invite specifically says it’s a laid-back celebration at a casual venue, the dress code usually leans toward formal wear. A long evening gown, a cocktail dress, a pantsuit, or dressy separates (like a skirt and elegant blouse) are all great choices to keep your outfit classy without looking over the top.

Get the Look: GS2838 - Glitter Crepe Deep V-Neck A-Line Dress w/ Criss-Cross Straps

When choosing your outfit, it may be helpful to ask about the dress code. Not all families include this on the invitation because formal or semi-formal attire is usually expected. But if you’re unsure about what to wear to a quinceañera — especially if it’s your first time — there’s no harm in double-checking.

Don’t Upstage the Birthday Girl

While you're expected to dress to impress, you should steer clear of any outfits that might compete with the birthday girl’s quinceañera dress. Avoid heavily embellished dresses that are more suitable for a day about you, not her.

This doesn’t mean you can’t flaunt some shimmer — just stay away from dresses that would make people pay more attention to you than the birthday girl. A safe choice would be a dress with a streamlined silhouette in sleek fabrics like jersey, silk, or satin. A sequin dress is totally fine as long as it’s not overly embellished. And whatever you do, never wear a ball gown to a quinceañera!

Get the Look: GL3044 - Sweetheart Satin Mermaid Dress w/ Open Back and Gathered Waistline

Although most celebrants wear ball gowns, she might go for something simpler.

When in doubt, you can always ask her or her parents what she's wearing to make sure your look is appropriately toned down without being boring.

Do Wear Color

A quinceañera is a happy celebration, so unless the birthday girl specifically requests it, do not wear black. Instead, embrace color!

Not sure what color to wear to a quinceañera? Since these events typically have a regal theme, consider muted jewel tones like emerald, sapphire, and burgundy. If you want a softer look, you can't go wrong with pastels. They’re perfect for any time of year. (Just make sure the birthday girl isn't wearing the same hue as you!)

Get the Look: GL3051 - Straight Across Sequin Embellished Mermaid Dress w/ Open Lace-up Back

Don’t Wear Something Revealing

We recommend keeping your hemline and neckline a bit more modest for this type of celebration. Keep in mind that the guest list likely includes the birthday girl’s family — so keep it classy! Avoid plunging necklines, thigh-high slits, and sheer fabrics that leave nothing to the imagination.

Get the Look: GL3574 - Embellished Mesh Dress with Cascading Ruffle Detail

If you're wondering what to wear to a quinceañera with a religious ceremony beforehand, a long evening gown with a tasteful neckline is a fabulous choice.

You can choose a bright and colorful dress or one that's a more neutral color, like champagne, mauve, or black.

Do Keep it Fun and Fresh

Wondering what to wear to a quinceañera? The #1 rule is to keep it fun, youthful, and fresh! After all, it is a 15th birthday party. Boring styles? Bye.

Feel free to embrace trends and flaunt playful lengths (as long as it’s appropriately short, of course). Cocktail dresses and two-piece sets are a great choice, capturing the lively vibe of many quinceañeras.

Get the Look: GS1439 - Two-Piece Embroidered Pencil Skirt Dress

You can find them in cute floral fabrics too. If the quinceañera is in the summer, this embroidered set would be perfect for the celebration! But keep in mind that because your midriff is showing, it’s best to check with the host to make sure it meets the dress code.

Don’t Wear the Quinceañera’s Theme Colors

Imagine showing up in the same shade as the celebrant — now that’s one way to ensure you never get invited again.

Quinceañeras usually have a color theme. It may be white (to signify purity), or it may be very colorful. We’ve seen everything from The Great Gatsby to a “Midnight Masquerade,” each with a color scheme that influences the decorations, the court’s outfits, and, most importantly, the birthday girl’s dress.

If you don't know the theme, ask! You’ll want to avoid those colors since the birthday girl’s dress will likely match the color palette. For example, if she’s having a Barbie-themed party, she’s probably going to wear a pink ball gown. In that case, it’s best to steer clear of shades of pink.

Don't worry, though! There are so still many other colors out there.

Get the Look: GS3509 - Glitter Jersey Sweetheart Neckline Bodycon Homecoming Dress w/ Cut-Away Shoulder

Looking for quinceañera guest attire? This bodycon number comes in four fabulous shades for you to choose from.

Do Accessorize and Style Your Hair

When women ask us what to wear to a quinceañera, most just inquire about the dress itself. To create a winning look, you can't forget about the smaller details like your accessories and shoes.

Colorful, bold accessories are a great choice for a quinceañera, especially for sprucing up simple outfits! As for footwear, go with whatever keeps you comfortable so you can enjoy the festivities from start to finish.

Get the Look: GS2839 - Illusion Deep V-Neck Glitter Crepe Short Dress w/ Strap Back

Wear GLS Collective to Your Next Quinceañera

Now that you know what to wear to a quinceañera, it’s time to find the perfect look. Shop our collection of stylish, party-ready looks that’ll have you making a statement at your next celebration (without stealing the birthday girl’s spotlight, of course). Plus, our prices keep your wallet happy while delivering designer-level style! 😉

From weddings to Sweet 16 parties, we’ve got more blog articles to help you create a winning look:

• Decoding the Dress Code: What Is Cocktail Attire?
• 5 Stylish Dresses to Wear to a Wedding
• What to Wear to a Sweet 16 Party