Summer brings with it a whole host of outfit challenges – from navigating putting together your holiday wardrobe to the dreaded search for a new bikini. Not least of these dilemmas is the world of occasion wear. Whether you’re heading off to a friends wedding or for a flutter at the races it’s a season of strict dress codes.

When it comes to nailing occasion wear there are some key things you need to bear in mind – read on for my guide to occassion attire.

• Don’t steel the brides thunder – never wear white!
• Black dresses used to be a no no for weddings but are more widely accepted these days.  If you opt for black make sure you inject some colour into your outfit with your accessories
• Wear sleeves or bring a cover up for religious ceremonies
• Wear heels you can walk in all day and take note of the terrain – stilettos won’t work on gravel, cobbles or grass.  Choose platforms or wedges instead, ideally a pair that are really comfy that you can wear all day.  Alternatively pack a pair of your favourite flats to change into later on
• Remember the matchy-matchy rule: never coordinate your bags, shoes and belt
• If you have several weddings coming up it’s perfectly acceptable to re-wear an outfit – just switch up the accessories

The Races

 Cocktail Party

A standard dress code for parties, your cocktail dress should be appropriate yet fun and a good reflection of your personality.

• Dresses must stop at the knee (or just above) – midi length is good too if you’re not so comfortable wearing a shorter dress
• Interesting colours, embellishments and cuts are all great – ensure though your look is sophisticated.
• When in doubt wear a little black dress and accessories it with fun jewellery
• Avoid anything too revealing
• Polished trousers and a top make a nice change
• Opt for clutch or small shoulder bag – large tote bags are out
• Whether it be stilettos, kittens or block heels, a little extra lift is necessary when it comes to a more formal event.

Black Tie

When dressing for a black tie event, a floor-length dress or gown is the ideal outfit. While you can get away with formal cocktail attire, a long dress is more elevated for the occasion.

• Choose a sophisticated looking dress with a simple and feminine silhouette
• Opt for more elegant, subdued colours
• If you have a plain one-colour dress ensure you accessories make a statement
• If your dress has a bold print then opt for simple accessories as they are simply there to support and elevate your frock
• Dressy separates are also ok to wear – think full length trousers and a silk blouse
• Avoid platform and wedge shoes as they’ll make the outfit look cheap

White Dress Code

White tie is the highest level of dress code, so if you receive an invitation with it on, you better be ready to dress for this glamorous occasion.

• Choose a full-length gown – shorter dresses or trousers, no matter how smart are not acceptable
• It is traditional, but not essential, to show décolletage
• Long gloves have traditionally been worn with this dress code although more optional these days – when in doubt, have a pair with you ready to slip on
• Gloves work best with sleeveless dresses but can be worn with cap or short sleeve dresse
• If you wear gloves keep them on while drinking and dancing but remove them for dinner
• Jewellery can be striking – a great opportunity to show of your finest peices
• Evening bags should be small and elegant
• Strappy heels are a must – if not great in heels opt for a fuller heel as it will give you a bit more support

Do you have a special event coming up this and struggling to find the perfect outfit?  Call me for a FREE 30 minute phone consultation.