Forget the bikini season panic. There’s nothing like a summer event dress code to put you in a fashion spin. It’s that tricky balance between looking elegant and relaxed enough to match the season. Formal, but not stuffy. Statement, but not attention-seeking (this especially applies in the presence of brides).
Solve your what-to-wear conundrums with our style guide to bag the award for Most Glamorous Guest.
OUTFIT APERITIF
Dress code doesn’t have to automatically mean ‘dress’. This season, there are smart matching separates or two-piece tailoring options if you are tired of sticking to the same silhouette.
“Think about the style of the occasion before you plan your outfit,” advises Jenny Packham, red carpet and Debenhams designer.
“Research the venue and location before outfit shopping, as it helps set the mood and style focus: a traditional wedding in the countryside offers a different set of sartorial rules to a tropical, beach vibe, for instance.”
MAIN EVENT
Whether you’re beach, city or countryside-bound, always vow to say ‘I don’t’ to white at weddings.
“Black and white is a great, chic alternative,” suggests Jenny. “Dress up a simple, block colour look with statement accessories. But if the outfit is bold, keep the extras simple, and vice versa.”
Don’t sabotage your Dancing Queen skills by hobbling on to the dance floor and ruining your look. Give your footwear a trial run around the house before wearing on the big day.
CLOSING PARTY
Temperature is all-important when selecting your event ensemble. If it’s an outdoorsy do, remember that temperatures will drop at night.
“Unless you’re wearing a suit, it’s often difficult to find a suitable cover-up for a summer dress,” says Jenny. “A light cashmere cardigan or matching wrap is a great solution.”
