What to Wear to Chelsea Flower Show 2025: Outfits to Look Garden Chic

What Is the RHS Chelsea Flower Show Dress Code?

The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) does not impose a formal dress code for the Chelsea Flower Show. Yet, tradition speaks volumes. Since its inception in 1913, Chelsea has been a quintessentially British affair—one where understated elegance is quietly expected. Notably, the show is a fixture on the British social calendar and a highlight of the London Season. Moreover, the show regularly welcomes members of the Royal Family, including annual appearances by the King. Hence, guests often dress with the same care one might reserve for a countryside wedding or a formal luncheon at The Orangery in Kensington—elevated, appropriate, and seasonally refined. This highlights the question of what to wear to the Chelsea Flower Show in 2025 as an elegant woman.

Sartorially, think refined, smart garden party attire with a nod to the season’s florals and fabrics. Avoid denim, loud logos, and casual trainers. Tailored daywear in breathable natural fibres is the unofficial uniform. Smart separates, tea dresses, or structured shirt dresses in silk-cotton blends are popular choices amongst seasoned attendees. Many of these items can also fit in a capsule spring wardrobe.

Scroll down to swipe through dresses and accessories options to wear to Chelsea Flower Show 2025.

Chelsea Flower Show Outfit Ideas: Garden Party Chic

Many women ask themselves the same question: How do I dress in a way that feels elegant, seasonal, and true to the event’s spirit?

Understanding how to dress

The answer lies partly in tradition. The Chelsea Flower Show and its fashion traces its origin in country horticultural competitions. Here, contestants would arrive in smart attire not out of formality, but out of pride—hoping to win awards and present themselves well. Over time, this custom of dressing smartly evolved, shaped further by the show’s location in Chelsea, one of London’s most affluent districts. Today, that heritage continues, as many attendees embrace a certain polished charm—wearing florals with an elegant twist that feels both celebratory and appropriate to the setting.

What colours to wear to the Chelsea flower show?

The event is held in late May, when spring bursts into early summer and British gardens are at their most exuberant. The natural vibrancy of the season gives permission to dress a little bolder to reflect the brightly coloured surrounding. So, don’t be afraid to embrace vivid colours — whether through a bright cherry red, a rich cornflower blue, or an embroidered botanical print. Alternatively, expect to see a palette of soft celadon greens, butter yellows, English rose pinks, and powdery cornflower blues. These hues also echo the hydrangeas, peonies, and delphiniums in full bloom at the show itself.

As there is no formal dress code, it is far less rigid than events like Ascot or Henley. If in doubt, think “Buckingham Palace garden party”—that’s the most formal one ever needs to go. Otherwise, floral day dresses reign supreme.

Style, silhouette and fabrics

Therefore, the ideal Chelsea ensemble balances heritage with what is quietly trending. Dresses are the anchor piece, typically midi or tea-length, and possibly gently cinched at the waist. They can be crafted from light, breathable fabrics like broderie anglaise, lawn cotton, or silk-linen blends. The silhouette leans soft and fluid rather than sharply structured—graceful and feminine without being overly formal. Think delicate gathers, subtle tiers, or fluttered sleeves that move with ease—styles that feel romantic and polished, but never rigid. This is elegance that feels at home in a garden.

Dresses to Wear to Chelsea Flower Show

Emilia Wickstead offers an impeccable silhouette in her floral belted midi dresses. These are ideal for navigating flower beds whilst maintaining formality. Meanwhile, The Row’s understated belted shirt dresses in ivory poplin cater to minimalists. As abovementioned, Beulah London’s dresses, often in pastel florals hand-printed on organic cotton, appeal to those favoring ethical elegance.

For something more whimsical, explore Needle & Thread’s HS25 “Beauty of Botanicals” collection. It features tiered tulle gowns, delicate embroidery, and soft pastels like petal pink and mint, all of which echo the garden’s palette. Their shorter day dresses with ruffle trims and floral sequins feel festive yet wearable, making them perfect for Chelsea’s romantic setting.

Another example of clothing that suggests floral inspiration with theatrics is Liberty of London’s heritage prints. Meanwhile, high-end designers such as Erdem, whose collections often feature painterly florals on duchesse silk or organza, represent the gold standard.

Prefer separates? Try high-waisted linen trousers in ivory or stone, paired with a puff-sleeve blouse or a fine cashmere knit in shell pink.

Always factor in layers. A cropped tweed jacket from Holland Cooper adds structure, while a classic Mackintosh trench in taupe or sand tones offers both warmth and style—essential for Britain’s unpredictable spring weather.

Ultimately, Chelsea fashion is not trend-chasing; it is rooted in timeless English sophistication, adapted each year with modern refinement.

Can You Wear Trousers or Jumpsuits to Chelsea Flower Show?

Absolutely. While dresses remain the most popular choice, tailored trousers and elegant jumpsuits are perfectly acceptable. In fact, many guests opt for wide-leg linen trousers, soft palazzo styles, or belted jumpsuits in floral prints or pastel hues. These offer comfort without compromising elegance. Even jeans have been spotted—though it is best to keep them crisp, dark-washed, and styled with a smart blouse or blazer.

The key is to aim for fabrics and cuts that feel elevated, in colours that echo the season’s mood. Trousers and jumpsuits are not only stylish—they also reflect a modern, practical take on Chelsea dressing.

What Shoes to Wear at Chelsea Flower Show: Practical Elegance

Footwear must be chic but never fragile. The Royal Hospital Chelsea grounds demand shoes that can manage grass, gravel, and cobblestones. Block heels, like those in raffia from Phase Eight pictured above, in leather or suede from two to three inches maximum are a safe bet.

Malone Souliers’ Maureen flats with their sculptural form and comfort-focused design are a Chelsea favourite. For a more classic option, Russell & Bromley’s slingback kitten heels in patent or raffia blend charm with quiet sophistication. Avoid stilettos, which sink into lawns and strain the feet.

Loafers in woven leather or soft calfskin from Church’s or Penelope Chilvers, or even dressy espadrilles with ribbon ties, strike a refined yet sensible balance. Soft earth tones, ivory, and blush are preferred over stark black, which can feel too severe against spring florals and pastel tones.

Accessories and Hats: How to Elevate a Chelsea Look

Accessories are where Chelsea attendees subtly express personal style while maintaining elegance. From millinery to mother-of-pearl, the right finishing touches can truly elevate a look from pretty to polished.

The Etiquette of Hats at the Chelsea Flower Show

Historically, formal hats, such as picture hats (wide-brimmed styles often associated with the Queen or Queen Consort) and pillbox hats (popularised by 1960s icons like Jackie Kennedy). were more commonly worn to the Chelsea Flower Show. This was not only due to the presence of the royal family, but also a reflection of the era’s more formal approach to daytime event dressing. Today, whilst still appropriate for those attending in a formal or society capacity, these styles are seen less frequently.

In modern Chelsea style, straw hats take prominence—particularly wide-brimmed boaters and fedoras. The boater, with its crisp ribbon trim, evokes the charm of garden parties and summer regattas along the Thames. Meanwhile, the fedora brings a slightly more tailored, countryside flair. Both offer sun protection and polish without overpowering the outfit.

Alternatively, for a casual yet considered look, unstructured raffia sun hats or other straw hats also feel at home among the blooms.

Where to Find Your Hat

Milliners like Jane Taylor London and Lock & Co. Hatters remain go-to sources for exceptional craftsmanship and timeless style, catering to both contemporary and classic tastes.

Bags and Sunglasses to Wear to Chelsea Flower Show

Top-handle bag or structured bag

A structured top-handle bag completes the Chelsea look with purpose and polish. Opt for smooth leather in neutral or soft pastel tones—creams, rose, or powder blue—from heritage labels like Aspinal of London or Métier London. These styles offer just enough space for garden show essentials: sunglasses, SPF, electronics, and your folded programme.

Wicker or Raffia Handbag with Leather Trim

A nod to English countryside charm, a well-made wicker or raffia bag with leather accents feels relaxed but still elevated. Styles from Loewe’s Basket Collection or Pamela Munson strike the right balance between fashionable and garden-appropriate.

Clutch or Envelope Bag for Luncheon Settings

For those attending a formal hospitality tent or afternoon tea setting, a small envelope clutch in silk, satin, or embossed leather is a lovely choice. Look for understated elegance.

Sunglasses

Sunglasses, too, should feel refined. Choose soft, rounded frames in tortoiseshell or champagne acetate for a timeless silhouette. Niche British eyewear labels such as Cutler and Gross are celebrated for their craftsmanship and subtle distinction—perfect for Chelsea’s quietly elegant atmosphere. Or, Taylor Morris sunglasses offer a refined British look with a touch of vintage cool – smart, but never overstated.

Jewellery: Refined Accents That Whisper, Not Shout

Jewellery at the Chelsea Flower Show should feel understated yet exquisite. Opt for pieces that enhance rather than distract. Classic choices include a delicate gold chain bracelet, a mother-of-pearl pendant, or a single heirloom brooch pinned to the lapel of a blazer or dress coat.

For those looking to add quiet luxury, fine pearls are especially suited to the Chelsea aesthetic. Brands like Yoko London are known for their rare South Sea and Akoya saltwater pearls. Moreover, Mikimoto, available at Selfridges, has offered exceptional Akoya pearls revered for their mirror-like lustre since the brand’s founder pioneered the creation of the world’s first cultured Akoya pearl in 1893. Buying saltwater pearls represent a significant step up in quality from standard cultured freshwater pearls, which make up over 95 per cent of the global pearl market.

Whether worn as simple stud earrings, a collarbone-grazing strand, or a modern drop design, high-grade pearls add timeless grace to any garden-party ensemble.

RHS Chelsea Fashion Trends 2025

Where Does Chelsea Fashion Inspiration Come From?

While the Chelsea Flower Show does not issue an official style theme, its style each year mirrors the spirit of the season. For 2025, the mood leans toward botanical romanticism – an aesthetic rooted in softness, heritage, and emotional depth. This aesthetic reflects the soft, romantic looks with delicate detail from the 2025 spring/summer (SS25) collections shown months prior on the runway.

Designers like Erdem showed embroidered high-neck gowns with Edwardian shapes, whilst Simone Rocha used pastel organza and dramatic ruffles. Giambattista Valli’s signature tiered gowns showcased a romantic colour palette in dusty rose and antique ivory hues. Meanwhile, Huishan Zhang nodded to 1940s Shanghai with Mandarin collars and appliquéd florals. Chloé featured empire waists and flowing chiffon, whilst Celine channeled 1970s style sharp tailoring with soft pleated floral prints. Altogether, these looks shaped a season filled with ethereal fabrics and vintage influence.

Though, couture does not dictate Chelsea style directly, it sets the tone. British heritage and mid-luxury labels like Beulah London and Suzannah London may take subtle inspiration from couture. Beulah’s structured yet romantic dresses, like the Ahana and Francine dresses, showcase shades like dusty rose, baby blue, fuchsia, and lime echo runway colours. Suzannah’s painterly florals, like those in the Georgina Silk Tea Dress in Sweet Peas, resonate with the impressionistic detailing seen on couture catwalks

Moreover, even English garden design and luxury interior trends feed into these romantic fashion themes. Soft, wisteria toned walls, de Gournay-style wallpaper, and pastel chintz upholstery blend nature and refined femininity. Colour authorities like Pantone and WGSN spotlight tones like Fondant Pink, Tender Peach, Radiant Red, and Cool Matcha. These are all hues commonly seen in rose gardens and heirloom floral prints.

For Chelsea, the ideal outfit is romantic yet wearable. It should feel polished but still playful. Smart casual is great too. Soft tailoring, painterly florals, and pastel tones reflect the gardens in bloom. These looks feel fresh, elegant, and in harmony with the season.