What to Wear for Chelsea Flower Show – An Elegant Style Guide

The RHS Chelsea Flower Show has no official dress code, but it’s a very fashion-conscious event. Guests traditionally aim for a polished, garden-party look: “stylish yet practical” attire that balances elegance with the outdoors. Think smart-casual or dressy garden-party outfits – after all, celebs and even royals mix in the crowds. The RHS advises taking layers and weather-ready gear: comfortable, sturdy shoes, a light waterproof or umbrella, and sunglasses are must-haves. In short, dress to impress for a day outdoors, but keep practicality front of mind.

Daytime Dress (Member’s & Public Days)

• Women: Embrace dresses and skirts – midi or maxi lengths in breathable fabrics like cotton, linen or chiffon. Florals and botanical prints are quintessential choices, but solid pastel or earthy tones (sage green, sky blue, blush pink) work too. Wrap dresses, A-line or fit‑and‑flare silhouettes and wide-leg linen trousers are popular. For example, one style note advises: “Day dresses, skirts or wide linen trousers are all good choices… a trouser suit in a bold colour (such as emerald green) or a botanical print really gets in the spirit of the event”. Carry a medium tote or crossbody bag to hold essentials (water, sunscreen, leaflets).

• Men: Aim for smart-casual suiting. A crisp collared shirt or polo with chinos or tailored trousers is ideal. Lightweight blazers or sports jackets (linen or tweed) add polish; if cooler, a fine-gauge sweater or cardigan is a smart alternative. For instance, Andy Cato was spotted in a chocolate tweed three‑piece suit with a striped tie, exemplifying the dapper, countryside-inspired elegance some male guests choose. Loafers, brogues or boat shoes are recommended (avoid casual trainers). A leather belt and classic watch complete the look.

• Layer and Adapt: UK spring weather is unpredictable, so plan layers. A light cardigan, blazer or shawl is wise in case of breeze or rain. A pack-away raincoat or umbrella should be tucked in your bag. Sunglasses and a modestly sized hat (straw boater, fedora or sunhat) not only finish the outfit but protect from sun – just keep it a sensible brim so as not to block other visitors’ views.

For women, dresses are a go-to: floral midi or maxi frocks paired with comfortable heels or flats. (“Floral frocks, raffia accessories, and the prettiest kitten heels” were noted as typical Chelsea style.) Here, a guest wears a pastel floral dress with block heels – an archetypal garden-party look.

Evening Gala Preview (VIP Charity Event)

The Charity Gala Preview (the star-lit preview night before the show) is more formal. Dress code: cocktail attire. Women should opt for elegant cocktail dresses, dressy jumpsuits or tailored separates – think knee-length silk dresses or chic evening suits. Men should wear a lounge suit with collared shirt (tie optional). Since even the gala is outdoors, layer up – a pashmina, shawl or dress coat is recommended, and don’t forget a small umbrella in case of rain. Polished footwear is key: low heels, dressy flats or sleek dress shoes. The Gala is an opportunity to glam up – add statement jewelry, a cluch bag or pocket square – but keep the overall look sophisticated and weather-appropriate.

Practical Tips

• Footwear: The lawns and paths can be soft or uneven, especially if it rains. Choose comfortable, closed-toe shoes: flats, loafers, low block heels or smart ankle boots. Avoid stilettos, flip-flops or any shoe with too-thin a sole (mud can be an issue). Even sneakers should be sleek and clean if worn.

• Weather Prep: Spring showers are common. Bring a light raincoat or travel umbrella. A waterproof jacket is often easier than juggling a large brolly. Layers help adjust to sun or chill. The RHS explicitly suggests taking sunscreen and sunglasses – it’s as much for comfort as style. A refillable water bottle is also wise.

• Comfort: You’ll walk and stand a lot. Pack a small crossbody bag to keep hands free. A compact sitting cushion (or use provided benches) helps at crowded seating areas.

Accessories and Accents

• Hats: A straw or fabric sunhat ties the look together and blocks the glare. Just avoid oversized brimmed hats or elaborate fascinators – these can obscure others’ views (and, as one guide advises, “fascinators are too formal” for Chelsea).

• Jewelry & Details: Keep jewelry tasteful. A floral-themed brooch, botanical-print scarf or a delicate necklace (e.g. a rose motif) adds a subtle nod to the show’s theme. Sunglasses should be stylish but not sporty – oversized or vintage frames are in vogue.

• Bags: A medium-sized tote or chic backpack allows you to carry essentials without cramping style. Tote bags in woven straw, raffia or light leather fit the garden-party vibe.

• Rain Gear: In addition to a coat, a compact travel umbrella is handy. Some designers even offer printed or floral umbrellas as an accessory, but any sturdy neutral one works.

Floral and Garden-Inspired Trends

The flower show itself inspires fashion trends. Bold floral prints are practically a uniform, from ditsy “English garden” patterns to larger bloom motifs. Designers have embraced garden themes – Vogue notes “floral motifs proliferate” across collections, often paired with straw hats, wicker clutches or even tool-inspired accessories. In practice, guests favor florals, botanical prints and nature palettes. Pastel hues, leaf-green or sky-blue separates, and delicate lace or embroidered details are common. Even utilitarian pieces show a twist (e.g. one attendee wore embroidered cargo trousers and a velvet cap with botanical flair). Incorporating one garden element – a flower-printed dress, a vine-embroidery blouse, or woven straw accents—is considered both stylish and thematic.

Men often wear light-colored or tweed suits with a garden-party twist. (At 2025 Chelsea, musician Andy Cato wore a chocolate tweed three-piece suit with a striped tie.) Here his guest sports a vibrant floral maxi dress. Together they illustrate the event’s mix of classic elegance with bold floral style.

What Not to Wear

• No Athletic/Sportswear: Save gym leggings, hoodies and running sneakers for the gym. Chelsea is an elegant affair, not a casual picnic.

• No Distressed or Graphic Tees: Ripped jeans, loud logos or slogan T-shirts clash with the refined setting.

• No Beachwear: Even in warm weather, shorts and flip-flops look out of place – opt for skirts, dresses or tailored trousers instead.

• No Oversized Costumes: Extravagant hats or costume-like florals draw attention away from the gardens (and can annoy neighbors). Subtlety is key.

In summary, think “garden party elegance”. Ladies in pretty dresses or chic separates and gentlemen in smart chinos or suits will feel right at home. Incorporate a touch of floral or green if you like, but above all be comfortable for a day on your feet. With the right smart-casual outfit and weather-ready accessories, you’ll fit perfectly into Chelsea’s stylish, bloom-filled scene