Dress Code for a Garden Party & Fall Event Outfit Ideas

Fall is a season I particularly love: the air turns crisp, the golden light casts a magical glow over everything, and invitations begin to arrive in abundance. It’s a time that encourages slowing down, savoring genuine moments of connection with the people I cherish, and, of course, choosing carefully what to wear to enjoy them at their best.

As the leaves begin to change, I feel irresistibly drawn to occasions that blend elegance with spontaneity: garden parties, outdoor evenings under the stars, and, why not, even art openings bathed in warm autumn light. These are moments when style is never an obligation but rather a natural form of personal expression — and understanding the dress code for a garden party is part of embracing that effortless elegance.

What Does the Garden Party Dress Code Mean?

The garden party dress code is designed to capture the essence of a refined yet relaxed style. It’s a way of dressing that celebrates elegance without stiffness — perfect for an outdoor setting where comfort and attention to detail must coexist in harmony. It’s not about strict formality, but rather about a cultivated sense of ease: garments that gently embrace the body, fabrics that move lightly, and colors that play beautifully with the season’s light.

This semi-formal attire stems from the idea of blending grace with practicality. That’s why fabrics like linen, cotton, silk, or soft leather are ideal: they allow for a sophisticated appearance without sacrificing the comfort needed in a garden, on the lawn, or on a terrace. Details make all the difference — a belt that enhances the silhouette, a pair of finely crafted shoes, or a lightweight outer layer to complement cooler temperatures.

The goal is to convey effortless elegance — the kind that never feels forced but can be sensed in every gesture and every style choice. In this sense, a garden party becomes the perfect stage to express an authentic and timeless look, and understanding what to wear to a garden party is essential. Whether choosing a chic dress or refined accessories, the inspiration behind a fall garden party outfit is always rooted in natural elegance and Italian craftsmanship.

How to Dress for a Garden Party (Women)

For a fall garden party, midi dresses are the most balanced choice: elegant without being overly formal, comfortable yet always refined. Floral prints remain timeless, but in this season they gain even more charm when paired with warm, neutral palettes that echo the colors of nature. Accessories complete the look with understated elegance: a finely crafted leather belt to define the silhouette, artisanal mules (or sandals that combine lightness and femininity without sacrificing comfort.

As the temperature drops, layering becomes essential: a delicate shawl draped over the shoulders or a soft-cut leather jacket adds style without weighing down the look. Finally, hairstyle plays a key role in maintaining harmony: natural waves or simple updos pair perfectly with the informal yet chic atmosphere that defines garden party attire for women.

Garden Party Casual Attire for Men

The dress code for a garden party in autumn invites men to combine ease and refinement, creating looks that adapt effortlessly to outdoor settings while retaining sophistication. The key lies in layering, which allows for an effortless adaptation to changing temperatures without sacrificing style. Tailored chinos paired with linen or lightweight cotton shirts create a refined yet comfortable foundation. On top, an unstructured jacket or a soft blazer adds just the right touch of sophistication without ever feeling excessive.

Shoes play a central role: Italian leather loafers or brogues, with their clean design and meticulous details, instantly convey elegance. Neutral tones — from beige to light gray to powder blue — keep the overall look harmonious and versatile. Accessories such as sleek sunglasses or a lightweight hat can complete the outfit, adding personality without disrupting the balance. The result is a look that feels sophisticated yet relaxed — the essence of garden party casual attire for men.

Tips for Fall Events Beyond the Garden Party

Fall is not only the season of garden parties: gallery openings, intimate early-season weddings, and elegant rooftop dinners are also part of a stylish autumn agenda.To approach these occasions with both elegance and ease, certain pieces from Jennifer Tattanelli’s collections can serve as valuable inspiration. The idea is always to inspire, leaving everyone free to interpret style according to their own personality — a mindset that aligns perfectly with the dress theme for garden party events.

• A reversible Italian leather jacket is the perfect embodiment of refined versatility. Lightweight and comfortable, crafted in full-grain leather, it can be styled in multiple ways thanks to its reversible design. It’s the ideal outerwear to transition seamlessly from an afternoon event to an evening aperitivo.
• A pair of silk tailored trousers demonstrates how comfort can meet the highest level of elegance. Handmade in Italy, they feature a contemporary cut that lends itself to multiple interpretations: styled with ballet flats for a relaxed look, sneakers for a modern touch, or pumps for a more refined result.
• For men, a pair of hand-stitched Italian leather lace-up shoes represents a timeless classic that blends style with practicality. With their enduring design and rich leather finish, they work equally well for formal occasions or elegant casual contexts.

These suggestions are not meant as rigid rules but as concrete sources of inspiration on how to elevate autumn events with pieces that unite craftsmanship, elegance, and comfort. Each look should remain a personal choice — one that naturally reflects individuality and authentic style.

Style Inspiration: Italian-Made Elegance for Seasonal Events

The charm of autumn events lies in the freedom to interpret style in many different ways — without rigid rules, but with the liberty to choose what best reflects one’s personality. This is where Made in Italy becomes more than just a label: it’s a guarantee of artisanal excellence, a creative process that merges tradition with innovation, and products designed to stand the test of time. Every piece, born from skilled craftsmanship and heritage know-how, serves as a true inspiration for creating unique looks — the foundation of elegant fall event outfits.

●       A pair of patent leather pumps with a low museum heel is designed to discreetly enhance feminine style. Combining comfort, durability, and timeless elegance, they are perfect for an art gallery opening or a refined dinner.

●       A mini Italian leather vanity bag is another small masterpiece of Florentine craftsmanship.Practical yet refined, it represents how Italian artistry brings together functionality and beauty.

●       For men, a short nappa leather jacket epitomizes sartorial excellence. Its meticulous design and the innate elegance of nappa leather give this piece a unique character, capable of accompanying both informal occasions and special evenings with equal class.

Whether you’re dressing for a fall garden party or an elegant evening in the city,  embracing the dress code for a garden party ensures your look stays refined, timeless, and authentically Italian. Discover Jennifer Tattanelli’s Italian leather collections online or at our Florence atelier.