I was talking to a friend who was invited to a bridal shower that she couldn't attend and was wondering if she had to send a gift. My answer was no she doesn't.
Unlike a wedding where you should send a gift if you were invited but can't make it, for a bridal shower and engagement party you don't have to send a gift if you won't be attending the party.
While you don't have to send a gift, of course you can if you want to or you can go in on a group gift just make sure your name is on the card.