A godmother should wear a modest dress that hits at the knee or longer, in a soft or deep color, with covered shoulders or a layer for the church. Skip white and ivory so the baby's gown stands out. For a fall or winter baptism or christening, choose sleeves or a cardigan, a smooth neckline with nothing for little hands to grab, and low shoes, because you will likely hold the baby for part of the service.
Shop our dresses with sleeves and high neck dresses.
What is the dress code for a godmother at a baptism?
Most baptisms and christenings take place during a church service, so dress the way you would for a formal Sunday. You stand at the front and appear in most of the photos, so aim one step dressier than the other guests.
- Hemline at the knee or longer.
- Shoulders covered in the sanctuary, with sleeves, a cardigan or a wrap.
- A neckline that stays in place when you lean forward to take the baby.
- Shoes you can stand in for an hour and walk steps in while carrying a child.
If you are not sure how traditional the family or the church is, ask the parents before you shop.
What colors should a godmother wear to a christening?
Avoid white, ivory and cream. The christening gown is the white in every picture, and you will stand right next to it. Beyond that, fall and winter baptisms suit colors with some depth.
| Color family | Why it works | Dress to try |
|---|---|---|
| Soft pink or light blue | Classic for a baptism and photographs well next to a white gown | Cerise Dress |
| Jewel tones (peacock, teal, green) | Rich in low fall light and flattering on most skin tones | Fern Dress |
| Autumn floral | Looks seasonal in photos. Pick a print with plenty of color so it does not read as white | Hazel Dress |
| Gold | Warm and festive in low winter light without looking like a party dress | Thessaly Dress |
What should a godmother not wear to a baptism?
- White, ivory or cream.
- Plunging, strapless or very low necklines.
- Heavy beading, brooches, long necklaces or large earrings at chest height. A baby in your arms grabs whatever is closest.
- A floor-length hem with high heels. You cannot lift your skirt on the church steps with both arms full.
- A fabric you would be upset to get spit-up on. Bring a burp cloth for your shoulder.
What should a godmother wear to a fall or winter baptism?
Old churches get cold from October on. Choose a dress with sleeves, or put your cardigan on before the service starts. Taking a sweater off while holding a baby is close to impossible, so plan to keep your layer on the whole time. Tights and a closed flat or low block heel keep you warm and steady.
Godmother dresses we recommend
Hazel Dress in Fall Hazel, a tapestry-inspired floral print on a cream background. It is a sleeveless, knee-length dress with a boat neckline, a fitted bodice, a drop waist with a flared skirt and a back zipper, in 100% polyester. It runs small, so size up. XXS to 6X. Why it fits: the boat neckline is smooth with nothing for the baby to pull, and the knee length works for church. Add a cardigan, since it is sleeveless. The print sits on a cream background, so if the family wants you well away from white, choose one of the darker dresses below.
Thessaly Dress in Gold, a sheer gold mesh with a scattered floral. It has a round neckline, short puff sleeves, a stretchy smocked bodice, pockets and a tiered A-line skirt in a maxi length. XXS to 6X. Why it fits: the round neckline and smocked bodice give little hands nothing to grab, the sleeves help in a chilly sanctuary, and the pockets hold a pacifier. It is a maxi, so wear it with flats for the church steps.
Cerise Dress in Light Blue, with pale watercolor florals. It has an off-the-shoulder neckline, puff sleeves, a stretch bodice, pockets and a tiered skirt in a midi length, in cotton. XXS to 6X. Why it fits: a soft baptism color, and the brand lists religious ceremonies among its uses. It is off the shoulder, so put on a cardigan or wrap before you enter the sanctuary.
Fern Dress in Dark Green, with a golden fern print. It has a square neckline, full elastic puff sleeves, functional front buttons (no zipper) and pockets. The brand recommends sizing up. XXS to 6X. Why it fits: the deep green looks rich next to a white gown, and the sleeves help in a cold church. Fasten every button before the service, since little hands find buttons quickly.
See more covered styles in our Modest Dresses collection.
What else should a godmother bring?
- A burp cloth or thin muslin for your shoulder.
- A cardigan or wrap that you put on before the service.
- Small stud earrings instead of hoops or drops.
- Hair pulled back or half up so it stays out of tiny fists.
FAQ
Can a godmother wear black to a baptism?
In most churches, yes, especially for a morning service. Some families see black as a mourning color, so ask the parents if you are unsure, or choose a deep green or another rich color instead.
Does a godmother have to wear a dress?
No. A modest skirt and blouse or dressy pants also work. A dress is the most common choice because it photographs well and feels suited to the occasion.
Is the dress code for a christening different from a baptism?
Not in practice. Both are usually part of a church service, so the same modest, polished guidelines apply.
Should the godmother match the baby or the family?
You do not need to match. Coordinating with the parents in a soft or complementary color looks nice in photos, as long as you leave white to the baby.
What shoes should a godmother wear?
Flats or a low block heel. You may carry the baby up and down steps, so pick shoes you can walk in without looking down.