Meet The Parents Outfit (63 Decent Outfit Ideas)

I'm pretty sure every lady out there feels a slight constriction in their stomach at the thought of meeting his parents. Even if you're usually great with parents, there's that need to make a great first impression. After all, it's the first impression that counts, whether you're going in for an interview, going on a first date, or meeting the parents. 

One great way to have that first impression in the bag is to dress to impress. You see, before making a conscious decision to get to know you, they'll be checking out your 'packaging.' That's why you need to plan out the perfect outfit to win them over. 

Of course, it doesn't all hinge on the outfit, but with the right clothes, you'll most likely make a good first impression. To give you some much-needed inspiration, here are some meet the parents outfit ideas. 

63 Meet The Parents Outfit Ideas

1. A wrap dress

Wearing a wrap dress is a great way to accentuate your body shape without showing too much skin. If you don't want to go looking frumpy (because who does?), this outfit will do you lots of favors. It's simple, classy, and fit for multiple occasions; even more, the shoe options are not limited. Throw on a pair of sandals, heels, or some ankle booties, and you're set for the meeting. 

2. Jeans

They may come off as too casual for some settings, but if the dress code is relaxed, you can't go wrong with a good pair of jeans. Let's say you're meeting his parents for the first time in their home; then jeans are your friends. 

Just don't go with distressed jeans or something that does not fit your body shape. It's probably safer to go for a straight cut jean, but if it's a skinny cut, ensure that they aren't too tight. 

3. A T-shirt

If you can't find a good blouse or button-down shirt to go with your skinny jeans, a T-shirt is a good choice. Think about it; if you have one in a monochrome style without any lewd captions plastered on it, you could tuck it in or let it hang, then throw on some heels to elevate the look. You could also opt for some sneakers if you're one of those people who can make it look chic. 

4. Blazer

If you're looking to elevate a humble pair of jeans, then a blazer is another solid option. That's not all; a blazer is also great when the weather is a bit chilly; it allows you to kill two birds with one stone and even covers up any body art you aren't keen on showing them just yet. 

Altogether, it makes for a well put together look, and that's sure to land you a good first impression. 

5. A mid-length skirt 

Even if you have 'legs for days,' that's not something his parents need to know, best believe that even your boyfriend will be taken aback if you show up in something too revealing. If skirts are your thing, then a mid-length skirt is the perfect cut to wear when meeting his parents. It doesn't matter if it's a pencil, A-line, or circle cut; the length instantly makes it acceptable. 

6. Tapered pants 

If you're thinking of styling yourself more in the direction of business casual, then this option is golden. They'll undoubtedly flatter your body shape and offer a great fit without showing off a little too much. Pair this with a stylish blouse, and you'll look effortlessly chic, decent, and presentable. 

7. A jumpsuit

There are very few options you can't go wrong with, and a jumpsuit is one of them. For one, it has many varieties, so you can pick one depending on the setting or your personal style. I'd recommend something girly yet classy; you could pair it with a blazer or even get more adventurous with a leather jacket. 

Either way, you'll have to put on a nice pair of heels to tie the look together. 

8. Floral dress

If it's a casual meet up outside his parent's home, let's say a picnic or a light brunch, then a floral dress is all you need to grace the occasion. This article of clothing will make a banging impression, now, let's talk accessories. Pick one of the predominant colors on the dress to pair with a matching pouch. You could also throw in a pendant necklace and some matching shoes.

9. A ruffle top and scarf

This clothing pair is as good together as peanut butter and jelly. Let's say you already have a nice pair of skinny jeans laid out; what do you wear on top? Choose a striking shade for the ruffle top, then add the scarf to accentuate the design. Styling yourself like this will ensure that meeting his parents won't start out horribly because it's both classy and decent. 

10. A shift dress 

If you're a bit boxy or rectangular, then a shift dress will flatter your body shape and ensure that you put your best foot forward. Even better is the fact that it's the perfect choice for different settings. If it's going to be a casual meet up, a printed shift dress is ideal with some sneakers or sandals. 

On the other hand, if the occasion is formal, a neutral or monochrome shade is more suitable. Altogether, remember to keep it at a decent length. 

11. A chiffon blouse

if dresses aren't your jam, then you need a good top and bottom pairing. Right now, I'm going to talk about top options. To class things up a bit, try a chiffon or silk blouse with any of the bottoms mentioned above. A classy silk top can even make a pair of leggings look good. But in this case, the most casual option should be a pair of jeans. 

12. Ankle boots

Every girlfriend, and woman as a whole, should have a pair of ankle boots to pair with most of their clothes. These are a good fit if you're going for a pseudo formal look; in other words, they are classy but can still look good in place of sneakers. Think of them as a good in-between for heels and sneakers. 

13. Work in a sweater

The sweater has a bad rep for being poorly thought out Christmas presents or an article of clothing a cat lady would have in excess. But you can work a sweater in as a bold choice over a silk blouse, then pair that with jeans and colorful shoes. 

Also, go for a sweater in a bold shade because, let's face it, they are not the most exciting clothes out there. Altogether, you can make a classy statement if you play with colors while still keeping it decent. 

14. A fit and flare dress

To make a good first impression, try a fit and flare dress. It's perfect if you want to accentuate your figure while keeping it modest. For the most part, you should not wear clothes that are too fitted and leave nothing to the imagination, e.g., bodycon dresses.

A fit and flare or skater dress is a decent and versatile option. Depending on the shade, patterns, and length, you can wear them in different settings. 

15. A sweater dress

If you're looking for a classy yet cute clothing option, then a sweater dress will get you there. Depending on the type you go for, you can successfully pull off a laid back yet 'dressed up' look. If you're meeting the parents in a less formal setting, then a sweater dress is great because it's not pretentious. 

If you opt for a sweater dress, you'll be comfortable in your own skin while being in decent enough clothes to meet his parents. 

16. Straight-leg pants

If you're tired of dresses, then you can always pair some straight-leg pants with a cute blouse. They are a good base for a decent outfit, and it does not hurt that they are comfortable. 

Another major selling point is that they are not too tight nor loose-fitting; they sit at a sweet spot that makes them a good choice if you want to make a great impression. Also, if you're not a fan of high heels, you can still pull these off with a nice pair of flats. 

17. Classy jewelry 

There are certain kinds of jewelry you should not wear when meeting the parents. Don't overdo it, and if you're going for statement pieces, ensure that the rest of your ensemble is neutral. I'm going to mention body piercings; it's not out of the question to have them, but perhaps they aren't something you shouldn't wear when you're meeting the parents for the first time. 

As far as jewelry is concerned, keep it classy and only go bold when the clothes in your ensemble need a pop. 

18. Flared pants

This is another great thing to wear when meeting the parents; it’s the right amount of classy if you are going for a more formal look. 

In clothing like this, you’ll not look frumpy, yet they won’t bare it all like a pair of skinny jeans. To tie the outfit together, you can add a silk blouse, tucked in with a micro belt, or put on a V neck shirt. The option you pick will help you choose the shoes you’ll wear when meeting the parents. 

19. A clutch

The accessories you wear speak as loud as the clothes you choose when you’re meeting his parents for the first time. You’ll agree when I say that your choice of handbag is critical. You cannot just sling on your hugest bag and drag it over there; it’ll make his parents wonder what you’ve got brewing in there. 

Ditch the bag and go for a sophisticated clutch that can hold the vital things you need. After a phone, your keys, and a chapstick, nothing else should fit in your bag.

20. A lace knit top

It may seem simplistic to you, but there’s no rule against looking comfortable when meeting the parents. As long as you can pair something with it to class it up, you are good to go. The great thing about a lace knit top is that it's so cute and non-threatening that parents love it. Here's a tip, though; you don't want to be all over the place when it comes to hues. 

It's embarrassing to have a wardrobe disaster when meeting the parents, so pick one color and stick to it both for the top and bottom. 

21. A flowy shirt

When it comes to clothes as a whole, shirts are the focal point since they see first. Altogether, a flowy shirt is a good choice since it's not revealing yet easy to class up. To drive the outfit home, you could add a cute cardigan to the mix. Since the top is long and will most likely cover your bottom, some high waisted jeans will complete the look. 

Don't get tempted to pull on a pair of leggings. Sure, leggings go great with a flowy top, but it's not appropriate for meeting the parents for the first time. If you’re after the tight fit that comes with leggings, try some skinny jeans or dress pants instead.

22. Flat shoes 

Don't be that girlfriend who can't ditch a pair of heels even if it's for the one day/night you get to meet the parents for the first time. There's nothing wrong with heels, but sometimes less is more. A cute pair of ballet or doll shoes can tie most looks together, so you don't have to depend on heels to amp up all your outfits. 

Needless to say, if heels are vital to the success of your outfit, then, at least, don't go for 6-inch stilettos.

23. Go for a nude color theme

There is something elevated about nude hues; they are so pleasing to the eye. You can use this to your advantage as you search for the perfect dress or clothes to meet his parents. The world is your oyster with this color; you could go for a stylish nude midi dress and a cardigan or boyfriend jacket if it's sleeveless. 

Alternatively, a nude sweater with some straight cut jeans and some low cut booties will do the trick.

24. A pencil skirt

Some people may tell you that a pencil skirt is too hugging for the occasion, but that’s not true. This is not a pair of leggings that is too far along the spectrum to be regarded as decent for meeting with the parents. A proper pencil skirt, with a silk top or a cute sweater, can drive your outfit home. 

Altogether, skirts are not a bad choice when meeting the parents, simply do not get carried away with mini skirts.

25. Stay away from flip flops

No matter how casual the gathering is, some accessories kill outfits. They are right at the bottom of that list with leggings. They are only useful if you are looking to dress down all the way to the bottom. His parents can watch you wear flip flops when you’ve been his steady girlfriend for a long while.

26. Light makeup

Clothes and accessories can only do so much for your outfit; your makeup also leaves a lasting impression on his parents. In this case, less is always more. Don’t experiment with bright or bold shades; let them see the beautiful girl their son is bringing home. So, do not just spend time scrutinizing your outfit; your makeup is as important as your dress.

27. Keep your underwear ‘under’

No matter how good it may look to you, it’s advisable to keep your underwear where it's meant to be… underneath your dress. As much as his parents or other members of his family want to get to know you, they don’t expect your outfit to bare it all. So, don’t wear transparent clothing; make sure your bra strap and panty waistband are well tucked underneath your outfit. 

28. Say no to bodycon and bandage dresses

Of course, you want your outfit to make a statement, but ensure it does not make one detrimental to your relationship with his parents. Sure, bodycon dresses are flattering, especially if you’ve got a banging body. While this outfit may have worked wonders when you first met your boyfriend, they are not appropriate for an introduction to his parents.

29. A maxi dress

If you are looking to cover up some body art or simply cover yourself up, then a maxi dress ticks all the boxes. There are so many designs, patterns, and styles to pick from, and the dress pairs well with summer weather. If it’s more of a casual get together, then you cannot go wrong with a maxi gown. It’s nice and simple, but still stylish enough to make a lasting impression.

30. Put the sneakers away

Sneakers are quite comfortable and, let’s be honest; they look good with many outfits. But when you’re meeting his parents, it’s not a good idea to throw on a pair of sneakers. It's just a bit too casual for the situation, and it looks like you aren’t putting much of an effort. You can still opt for comfortable shoes without opting for sneakers.

31. Co-ord sets

If you want to look stylish and well put together, then co-ord sets are as good as it gets. Even better, there are so many options to pick that you can go from formal to semi-formal and all the way to casual. You can pair them with different kinds of accessories depending on the tone you are going for. But don’t go for anything too gimmicky, like costume jewelry.

32. A trench coat

If it's fall or early winter, then a trench coat is the perfect crown to a good outfit. Match a neutral-colored trench with a block hue when going to see his parents. It will show them your strong sense of style, but modesty all together. To drive it home, pair it with mild jewelry and accessories that match the trench coat itself. 

If there's a rule of thumb here, it's to ensure that whatever you wear underneath complements the coat and also try not to mix and match colors.

33. Vintage jewelry

This option is not only a pleasant way to pull an outfit together; it's also a great conversation starter. So, if you found a few pieces at a vintage store or had some handed down to you by an older relative, it's not a bad idea to throw them on when you're about to meet his parents. 

So instead of suffering lulls in the middle of the conversation, strengthen your budding relationship by giving them insight into your family history and how much you care about them. 

34. Avoid distressed outfits

Do not go to meet your man's parents with distressed clothing. I don't know how else to put it across. Ripped jeans, dungarees, shorts, pinafores, and the whole shebang are off the table. Especially the first time, you don't want to come off as too laid back. Sure, you want to show them who you are, but making a good first impression is the mission here. 

So, regardless of the outfit you go with, ensure that you keep distressed clothes out of the mix.

35. Keep body piercings and art under wraps

Again, it's not bad to want your boyfriend’s parents to know who you are, but get a foot in the door first. Showing up tatted up and pierced anywhere besides your ears is not a good idea. Try your best to keep all your body art under your outfit in the most stylish way. 

Jackets, sweaters, cardigans, and blazers are a great addition to your outfit if the aim is to hide tattoos and piercings.

36. Do not wear low cut dresses or tops

Sure, you have great breasts, but do your man’s parents need to know that? Not at all. Those babies need to stay right under your clothes while meeting the parents. You may be off to a rocky relationship if you strut in there with a low cut bandage dress. It just doesn’t speak well of you if you aren’t willing to impress them right off the bat.

37. Wear something that flatters your figure

You don’t have to wear something explicit to flatter your figure. All I’m saying is that you should not wear baggy outfits if you’re a size six and don’t squeeze into a tiny outfit if you’re thick. Put on clothes that fit your size and also your shape. 

Let’s say you’re an apple-shaped gal; a skater dress will do wonders for you. So. go into your closet and come out with something that’s both flattering and decent.

38. Ballet flats

The great thing about shoes is that there are so many options to pick from. If you don’t like pumps, there are sandal heels. Even more, if you don’t like heels, you can also choose flats. 

Further, if you aren’t a fan of pointed-toe flats, ballet flats are there for you. These shoes are great if you are trying to achieve slimmer calves or trying to make your outfit pop. This humble shoe design can go a long way to elevate your look.

39. A pleated skirt

 If you don’t want to go the full mile and opt for a pleated dress, a pleated skirt can create the same effect. If it's below the knee, then you’re well on your way to assembling a great outfit. Pair it with a bold colored top and a decent pair of flats or sandals to create a more wholesome look. 

Here’s a tip, do not mix colors if you opt for a pleated skirt; it will muddle things up since it's already a statement piece. A monochrome color scheme will ensure that you look inviting when you meet his parents.

40. Don’t wear body-hugging clothes

Just as I said before, you do not have to bare it all; those clothes may have landed you a man, but they will get you nowhere with his parents. This tip goes for all articles of clothing, not just dresses. So, keep your jeans, tops, and your dresses decent if you don’t want his folks to be taken aback.

41. Wear comfortable clothes 

I know you want them to like you, but don't go out of your way to look good to the detriment of your comfort. The meeting could go either way, but it can only go bad if you're wearing clothes that make you uncomfortable. 

Imagine, your shoes are too tight, and the pain in your feet is all you can think about while they ask you all sorts of questions. At some point, the pain will win, so don't put yourself in that position at all. 

42. Booty shorts are a no-no

Unless you aim to make the meeting as awkward as can be, then you should stay away from this option. After you've had a couple of meetings and gotten a sense of who they are, then maybe you can break out the booty shorts. 

Nevertheless, if you're invited to a family softball game or something of the sort on the first meeting, ensure that your shorts are not too revealing. Also, if they'd genuinely be uncomfortable seeing you in booty shorts even after the first meeting, don't wear them at family gatherings. 

43. Don't mix too many colors 

Everyone has their own sense of style, but when you're meeting your man's parents, some aspects of your style may need to be curbed. On that surprisingly long list is wearing too many colors all at once. You're trying to get into these people's good books, not assault their eyes. So, it's not a bad idea to wear neutral colors with an accessory that adds a pop or splash of color. 

44. A little black dress

Every woman should have three things; a leather jacket, comfortable sandals, and a little black dress. When meeting the parents, that little black number may be your saving grace. It's a classic, it pairs easily with other colors, and it's effortless. 

One thing to note is how little the dress is, don't go for that micro-mini option you wore clubbing last weekend; a knee-length one will do the trick. 

45. Don't wear a crop top

No matter how laid back he told you his parents are, don't wear a crop top. I'm going to be blunt here, it's just lazy, and many older people find it offensive. To be on the safe side, don't go all the way with a crop top. It's too casual, and it may come off as if you're not trying at all. So, try your best to look more put together and make an effort by opting for a full-length top. 

46. Stay away from what's trendy 

I'm not asking you to dress as if you're in Victorian times, but not all trends are decent. Your man's parents should not have to see you in an oversized T-shirt and knee-length stockings or sandals with latex socks. Just keep it simple and stylish without bringing in some outfits they may consider 'crazy.' 

47. Cutouts should be off the table 

In general, anything you could wear to a club should be off the table. In most cases, cutouts are not that decent, whether it's cut out at the chest, the back, or the stomach. Altogether, try to keep things PG when you're meeting his folks; in fact, try to stay away from anything that shows too much skin in some awkward places. 

48. Don't go strapless

Again, this is a bit too revealing and may even lead to a wardrobe malfunction. What are you going to do, not wear a bra to see his parents? Probably not, but with a strapless top, you'll have to let those bra straps sit awkwardly out in the open. Altogether, this isn't ideal, so don't go there. 

49. Pantyhose

Even though you aren't going to wear anything too short, do remember to put on some pantyhose if you're going to bare your legs. They also come in handy if the weather is a bit chilly, so it's a win-win. 

50. Don't overdress

It's easy to get so nervous that you go overboard with the clothing, but remember what Coco Chanel said, 'before you leave the house, look in the mirror and take off one thing.' In this case, you may need to take off more than one thing. Also, try to know the setting of the meeting beforehand, so you don't end up in a pair of shorts in a restaurant. 

51. Let your personality shine through 

At the end of the day, his parents want to get to know you, so you have to let that show in your dressing. You can do this by adding some classy prints and accessories. If you're wearing something exciting, it could help spur conversation during the meeting. 

52. Avoid high slits 

Even if you're 80% legs, this is not the occasion to showcase them. You need them to give you a chance to show them who you are, so don't distract them or divert their attention with a high slit.

53. Match pastels and print

Many effects in the world are pleasing to the eye, and the pastel and print combo is one of them. It's a great way to show that you are stylish while drawing positive attention to yourself. 

54. Don't wear clothes with explicit phrases on them 

This goes without saying, but I'm going to add it anyway. There is some alarming language out there; ensure that it's not on your chest or across your bottom. 

55. Classic heels

If you're going to wear heeled shoes, it's best to stick to a classic dese. Keep the straps away and simply slip into some pumps with a closed toe. 

56. A breast pocket coat

If it's chilly out, then this a stylish option that will ensure you're warm and that you look good all at the same time. 

57. A wrap top

There are so many top designs, but this one classes up an ensemble. You can pair this with some Jeans, pants, or a pleated skirt for the desired effect. 

58. Keep your hairstyle simple

Your hairstyle pulls your entire look together, so don't blow it on this front. There's no need for elaborate styles or unnatural colors. This does not mean you cannot color your hair; just try not to look too 'out there.'

59. A midi skirt 

Whether it's a pencil cut or a flare, you really can't go wrong with a midi skirt. They ate stylish, decent, and have a way of elevating your entire look. 

60. Plaid 

Don't you just love plaid? It's cute, it's playful, and it's good enough to wear to meet his folks. No matter what you do, try not to take it overboard and come off as matchy; it's unflattering. 

61. A long sleeve turtleneck

This is not only a stylish piece; it is relatively easy to pair with any bottom you want. Go for pastels or block colors here, then match them with something patterned; it created a nice effect. 

62. A high/low dress 

As long as the high part is a decent length, you cannot go wrong with this option. Yes, it's casual, but you can throw a blazer on to elevate it a bit more. 

63. Pay attention to details 

Whether it's a stain you forgot was there or a scuffed heel, best believe your man's parents are looking. So, take some time before leaving your house to glance over everything. If the finish is perfect, then you are all set.

FAQs

The Bottom Line

Meeting the parents for the first time can be quite daunting, but if you dress to impress, it takes some of the pressure off. Obviously, you are more than a pair of ankle booties, but that's not the first thing they'll see. 

I trust that this article has gotten your creative juices running; putting together the perfect outfit should be easier. If you've got any particular outfit ideas that worked for you, do let me know in the comment box below. Also, if it helped you out, pay it forward by sharing the article.