The joy of putting on an extra special outfit is undeniable, however getting back into the swing of occasionwear can feel like a sartorial leap, especially following months of pared-back basics and casual athleisure. But with summer weddings and celebrations firmly back on the social calendar this season, there’s never been a better moment to get your event wardrobe in check. 

Whatever the occasion, versatility is key. Gone are the days when you might wear a dress once before retiring it to the back of the cupboard; the growing importance of sustainability and longevity means recycling outfits is no longer a fashion faux pas. So reach for timeless silhouettes that you know you’ll be able to style with a range of accessories and wear on numerous occasions.

Investing in premium fabrics that will look luxe for years is essential. Check that silks hang well, satins aren’t too shiny and cottons are cut just right. Embellishments such as sequins and ruffles need to be executed perfectly, so it’s worth taking a trip in-store to see craftsmanship up close. Save time by choosing a shopping location with plenty of IRL occasionwear choices, such as Sloane Street. It’s home to the flagship boutiques of global luxury brands, so there is no shortage of clothing with a wow factor.

The number one rule for choosing occasionwear is to gravitate toward what makes you feel good. Invest in pieces that are comfortable and get your heart beating that little bit faster. After all, nothing guarantees a great time more than wearing an outfit you truly love. 

With all of this in mind, read on for the occasionwear pieces to know about and tips for styling almost every dress code of the season.

Florals are the obvious choice for summer weddings, but a block-coloured dress is a clever alternative. Not only do solid tones feel modern, they’re easier to transform with accessories, meaning you can respin them for several weddings to come. Emilia Wickstead’s zingy green Gwendaline gown makes a statement (without upstaging the bride). Team with versatile metallic accessories and a timeless dazzle of Chanel diamonds. 

Artsy garden parties such as the Serpentine Summer Party call for a contemporary look with a hint of drama. Valentino’s yellow evening dress fits the bill, the wearable train giving the classic shirt silhouette a directional twist. Bottega Veneta’s white strappy sandals keep the look modern and allow the dress to be the talking point. Reach for a bag with a long shoulder strap, so that your hands are free for canapés and champagne.

Dress codes vary depending on the match, but a chic trouser set hits the sweet spot between smart and relaxed. Summer whites will keep you cool pitch-side, while wide-cut trousers can be worn with flats or a wedged heel for half-time divot stomping. The clever thing about a co-ord is that it can be worn as separates and dressed up or down with other event pieces; add a blazer to the trousers for city weddings, and wear the top with an evening skirt for formal dinners.

The starting point of any race-day outfit is the headwear. Try a statement headband such as Gucci’s petal plume. The neutral colourway will work with myriad outfits. Stylishly cover shoulders and knees in Jonathan Simkhai’s crochet-detailed midi and save yourself sinking into the grass by choosing wedged espadrilles over stilettos.

The chicest way to master a tricky smart-casual dress code is by opting for a skirt set. For a sunny day on Centre Court, try for a lightweight cotton style in classic tennis whites. Worn together, Erdem’s coordinating embroidered blouse and midi skirt have the polished ease of a dress and will also look beautiful when styled with complementing separates. Plus, the blouse’s long sleeves will protect your shoulders from the sun. Add a classic black mule and a touch of luxe raffia.

Unless you’re attending a club with a specific dress code, the sartorial mood of Regatta day is ‘elevated picnic’. Think high-summer silhouettes in luxe fabrics and with playful trims, such as Zimmermann’s floral print shirt and shorts duo. Shoes should be flat and appropriate for walking along the river bank, so we suggest a pair of sleek slides. And Dior’s classic canvas book tote is big enough for a blanket and bottle of fizz.