I’d argue that on your birthday, there’s no such thing as being overdressed. On a normal day, I’d check out the tagged photos on the social media accounts to see what other people are wearing to get a sense of the dress code, but on your birthday, being too dressed up isn’t necessarily a fashion faux pas – after all, it’s your day. It’s for that reason too though that it can feel like there’s a lot of pressure: all eyes will be on you (IRL and on Instagram afterwards), so planning is key as you want to look and feel great.
I care about what I wear every day, but for my birthday, I’m not ashamed to say it’s on another level. Depending on what I have planned (typically a bottomless brunch or dinner with the girls), I’ll save inspiration images weeks in advance. I’ll buy a few different looks, try them on at home and send mirror selfies to a few friends in the hopes of narrowing it down to a single outfit. I’ll almost always have them tailored perfectly to fit too, so they feel that extra bit special.
If your own big day is on the horizon, here are six failsafe looks that will work for every birthday eventuality.
The out out dress
Best for: Clubbing
A glam midi is crying out for a clubbing night so it can really shine. Depending on your budget, ASOS, House of CB, Farai, Na-kd and Never Fully Dressed are excellent starting points. Go for metallics and brights as there’s no such thing as too much on your birthday – it’s a case of going hard or going home.
Wear with simple two strap heels and giant earrings, and an updo will really show off a great neckline.
*Eliza may earn commission on sales from these product links
The classically glamorous dress
Best for: a fancy dinner
Name a look more fabulous than full-length silk. I’ll wait. If your aim is show-stopping but subtle (and why wouldn’t it be on your birthday), then a tonal outfit in luxe textures is the way to go.
Black is super chic, but ivory or a punchy fuchsia feels more statement. A dress and blazer is one way to nail the look, but a silky blouse with a matching bias cut maxi skirt works just as well. Add some oversized jewellery, effortless hair and a bold red lip and you’re good to go.
*Eliza may earn commission on sales from these product links
Read next:
- Not sure what to wear to a hen party? Here’s 6 outfits perfect for bride and guests
- The best new-season buys in Reformation
- What to wear under sheer clothing this season
- What to wear for every stage of a breakup
The low-key luxe co-ord
Best for: A bottomless brunch
Bottomless brunch means avo on toast, a pancake stack and french toast galore, and that’s before we even get to the birthday cake and the 90 minutes of bellinis. My solution? Relaxed co-ords with an elasticated waistband. Keep them monochrome or neutral to ensure you look slick.
Go big on accessories (I love By Alona’s sparkly drop earrings as they add drama but aren’t heavy), and throw on a pair of strappy mules to elevate the outfit.
*Eliza may earn commission on sales from these product links
Read next:
- I’m a seasoned bottomless brunch goer – here are my top tips for dressing for them
- 6 conscious and affordable accessories brands you need to know
The LBD
Best for: Every eventuality
If your friends or partner are planning a surprise, you’ll need to dress for any kind of scenario, from brunch to the theatre. An LBD really comes into its own here: pair a mini one with a blazer and team with Converse and a bright mini bag for a casual celebration, or with colour pop heels and a satin clutch for an evening affair.
I’d argue an LBD is the only dress that looks just as good dressed up as it does dress down, so see it as your saviour if you’re not sure of your plans or are keen for a spontaneous celebration.
*Eliza may earn commission on sales from these product links
The statement suit
Best for: Fun day drinks
A bright trouser, skirt or shorts suit is made for a sunny drinks situ. It’s in-your-face in the best kind of way – just think how much you’ll stand out in your Insta pics.
Go for matching heels or an all-white pair which will punctuate the look nicely. For a casual location, wear a white T-shirt, but if you’ll be out for sunset, a silky cami or a buttoned-up blazer with nothing underneath is the way to go.
*Eliza may earn commission on sales from these product links
Trousers and a sexy top
Best for: Rooftop cocktail nights
If jeans and a cute top is your go-to for Saturday evenings out, your birthday celebrations need to go one better. A picturesque rooftop deserves a slinky look: think satin or leather trousers, with sky high heels and a fabulous top.
Sheer tops are big news this season, but bring a blazer along if you want to feel covered up. A glitzy bag, a sleek low bun and lots of jewellery (obviously) are the only additions you need.
*Eliza may earn commission on sales from these product links
Read next:
;
