Are you getting civilly partnered and unsure what to wear for the occasion? Have you been invited to a civil partnership and wondering what outfit to choose for this event?
You’re in the right place.
As a florist specializing in events, I stay updated on the latest trends in this area to better advise my clients. This way, I can guide you in your search for the perfect outfit.
If you need to dress for your civil partnership (PACS), know that there is no mandatory dress code like there is for a wedding. You are free to choose an outfit that makes you feel confident and comfortable. Don’t hesitate to discuss this with your partner; it’s important to be on the same page. If you’re a woman, you might opt for a flowy dress and accessorize with statement jewelry or a flower crown. If you’re a man, a light linen suit or a well-fitted shirt paired with a blazer could be a great choice. If you are invited to a PACS, check in with the future partners about the dress code to ensure you select an appropriate outfit.
If you’re looking for more detailed information, keep reading to discover:
- How to dress for a civil union
- What outfit to choose when you’re invited to a civil union
- Some ideas for accessories to enhance your outfit
How to Dress for a Civil Partnership Ceremony
Established in 1999, the Civil Partnership Pact (or PACS) has become increasingly popular and appealing to couples in France seeking an alternative to marriage.
The PACS has a less traditional and less formal connotation than marriage. So, it’s completely normal to wonder what attire is appropriate for this type of event! In the following lines, I will address your questions so you can prepare for this day with peace of mind.
A more relaxed dress code than at a wedding
There are many ways to organize a PACS today, ranging from a simple signing at the city hall without witnesses to a large celebration, similar to a wedding. The attire you choose will be influenced by the way the union takes place.
For a PACS without a Ceremony: Great Flexibility!
If it’s just a simple civil ceremony at the courthouse, the dress code is flexible: there are no specific requirements, other than what you and your future spouse might decide together.
A Carefully Selected Outfit for a PACS Celebration with Family or Friends
However, if you’re hosting a party, a ceremony at the city hall, or even a meal at a restaurant, it’s recommended to pay a bit of attention to your outfit. The context of the PACS allows for great freedom: you can choose an outfit that fits you well and makes you feel comfortable, without having to dress up as formally as you would for a wedding.
❕ To ensure everything goes smoothly, the best advice I can give you is to talk to your partner. Don’t hesitate to ask what outfit they prefer for you to wear, so you can delight them by dressing that way on this special day. Also, consider coordinating your outfits; this will symbolize your union and look very harmonious in the photographs.
For a Woman: What Trendy and Chic Outfit to Wear for a Civil Partnership?
Are you looking for a stylish and modern outfit to wear on the day of your civil partnership? Here are some tips to help you find the perfect look:
🔸 If you want to embrace a bohemian spirit for your wedding, go for a long, flowing dress in pastel colors. It’s important that you feel comfortable. We recommend a bohemian long dress from the brand Vie de Bohème.
🔸 Choose shoes that match your dress and are appropriate: are you planning to celebrate your civil partnership with a big romantic picnic with friends? Forget the high heels and opt for some lightweight sandals instead.
🔸 Don’t hesitate to enhance your outfit with accessories: a beautiful clutch, jewelry, or a flower crown… They should match your clothing and be mixed harmoniously to avoid looking like a costume.
A Wedding Dress for a Civil Partnership? 👰
Do you want to wear a wedding dress for your civil partnership? It’s definitely possible, and many women want to wear a beautiful dress for this special day. In this case, make sure to try on your dress before purchasing it. I also recommend avoiding very traditional wedding gowns, often referred to as “meringues,” to keep with the spirit of freedom and simplicity of a civil partnership. Opt instead for an elegant yet simple dress.
For a Man: How to Dress on Your PACS Day?
You have decided to enter a civil partnership with your partner, but you’re unsure about what to wear on the big day. Here are some tips to help you make your choice:
🔸 Since this type of union is less formal than a marriage, you have the freedom to choose a more casual yet stylish outfit. You can go for a light-colored linen suit.
🔸 When it comes to ties and bow ties, there’s no requirement! If you want to wear one, you can choose a unique pattern to celebrate the day, or you can stick with a classic look. If you decide not to wear either, consider accessorizing your outfit with a nice scarf or a hat, for example.
🔸 If you prefer not to wear a suit, you can choose a nice blazer with a shirt instead. This will add a touch of elegance to your outfit while keeping it simple.
You’re Invited to a PACS: What Should You Wear?
You’ve learned how to dress for the day of your own civil partnership, but right now you’re just invited to this type of event and wondering what to wear? I’m here to help you with that too.
The Essentials: Gather Information First 🙋🏻♀️
As we have seen, there are now many ways to celebrate a Domestic Partnership (PACS). It is essential to gather information from your future partner(s) so that you feel comfortable on the day of the event.
You can specifically ask them:
✔️ If a dress code is required, what is it?
✔️ Where is the event taking place
✔️ If any special activities are planned
✔️ If a photographer has been hired for the occasion
This will help you get organized so you can wear an outfit that’s suitable and comfortable. If physical activities are planned but you still want to look stylish, consider bringing a change of clothes.
Some Outfit Ideas for When You’re Invited
Now that you know what information is needed to choose the right clothes, I’d like to offer you a short list of outfit ideas for when you’re invited to a civil partnership (PACS) ceremony.
❕ You can also check out the outfit ideas and tips from the previous section, which are suitable for both PACS partners and their guests.
➡️ For a woman 👩
- A long dress: it will create a flattering silhouette if you are tall.
- A cocktail dress: perfect for a chic ceremony if you are petite.
- A stylish evening gown in popular trends favored by future spouses: vintage, rock, glamorous…
- A pair of trousers paired with an elegant, light-colored blouse if you’re not comfortable in a dress.
➡️ For a man 👨
- A light-colored suit: it will add a touch of freshness.
- A blazer or waistcoat over a lighter-colored shirt. These elegant touches are perfect for a more upscale ceremony.
➡️ For a child 👧 👶
It’s time to bring out a beautiful and quite chic outfit that you usually don’t get the chance to have her wear! You can focus on light colors or bright shades that relate to innocence and joy of life.
A Selection of Accessories to Elevate Your Outfit
Now that you know all about the outfits you can wear for a civil partnership, I’d like to share some accessory ideas that you can add to your look to elevate it.
High Fashion Costume Jewelry 💍
Feel free to match your jewelry with your outfit, especially if it’s more classic: this is the perfect opportunity to wear some statement earrings or a slightly extravagant necklace!
A Pastel Pouch 👝
In addition to being very convenient for keeping your paperwork and phone within reach, this accessory will enhance your outfits. A solid-colored clutch is especially great for contrasting with the patterns of your dress, for instance, highlighting your look.
A Flower Crown for a Woman or a Child 👑🌼
If you’re attending a rustic or bohemian PACS ceremony, it’s the perfect opportunity to embrace the flower crown trend. You’re sure to find a style that complements your outfit among our wide selection of flower crowns.
Are you looking for the perfect finishing touch to make your little girl feel like a princess at her first ceremony? We also have flower crowns for children and babies that are lovely, sturdy, and easy to put on.
A Hat or a Scarf for Him 🎩
If you’re a man, a hat or a nice scarf can enhance your look with ease. Are you in a relationship? Consider choosing an accessory that matches your partner’s outfit.
I hope I have provided you, through my expertise, with answers to all your questions about fashion trends for PACS ceremonies. Remember that no matter what outfit you choose, you should feel comfortable and confident!
Image Sources: Pinterest