What to Wear to a Christening as a Godmother (Outfit Ideas)

Short answer: For a christening as a godmother, wear a modest, polished dress in a soft color such as navy, with covered shoulders and a knee-length or longer hem. Skip white and cream, and choose shoes you can stand in comfortably through the service.

A godmother is part of the family photos and often holds the baby, so the outfit needs to look put together and feel easy. Most christenings are daytime and held in a church, so covered arms and a sensible hem go a long way. Here are two navy outfit ideas from our shop, each with shoes and accessories.

Navy lace overlay and sheath dress for a church christening

This navy two-piece set has a sheer lace-embroidered top with a round neckline, 3/4 sleeves and a scalloped high-low hem. It sits over a fitted knee-length sheath. The sleeves cover your arms for church, and the knee length is easy to manage when you pick up the baby. Finish with nude heels (a block or low heel is kinder through a long service) and a small gold clutch, as shown in the photo. Simple stud earrings are enough. It is a plus size set, so check the size chart against your measurements.

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Navy chiffon gown for a formal christening

This navy chiffon gown has a V-neck, short flutter sleeves, a satin ribbon empire waistband and a flowy A-line skirt with a high-low hem. It is a formal, floor-length style, so it suits a christening held in a larger church or followed by an evening reception. If the day is casual, ask the parents about the dress code first. Add a light wrap for a chilly church, and wear flat sandals or a low wedge. The photos show no pockets, so bring a small bag.

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Match the dress to the church and the time of day

Ask the parents how formal the day will be. A morning service followed by lunch at home calls for a knee-length dress with sleeves. An afternoon or evening ceremony with a sit-down meal can handle a long gown. Stay away from white, ivory and cream, since the baby wears those. Keep necklines modest and carry a light wrap if the church is cool or you want extra coverage. Navy, dusty blue, sage and soft mauve all photograph well and look right for the occasion.

Plan for holding the baby and standing a while

You may carry the baby, stand at the font and pose for photos, so comfort matters. Choose shoes you have already worn for a few hours, and skip dangling jewelry and rough beading that a baby could grab. A hem that stays put when you bend down helps too. Order early: shipping to the US is free and takes 7 to 14 business days. All sales are final for fit or change of mind, so check the size chart carefully before you buy.

Want more options? Browse all mother of the bride dresses.

Questions, answered

Can a godmother wear black to a christening?

Often yes, but it can feel heavy for a celebration of new life. Navy or another soft color is a safer choice, and you can always ask the parents.

Should a godmother dress up more than other guests?

Dress a little more polished than the average guest, since you are in the photos and part of the ceremony. You do not need to look like a mother of the bride.

What if the dress arrives and does not fit?

All sales are final for fit or change of mind, so check the size chart first. If an item arrives damaged, defective or wrong, we replace or refund it within 14 days of delivery.