It’s not that I’d never wear a dress. Or that I don’t own any. It’s just that there are other pieces I’d rather wear, so if I was pressed to pick between a linen shorts coord and a floral sundress on a sunny day, it’d be the shorts set every time.
There’s just something about a dress that feels fussy, but that hasn’t always been the case: I’d beg my mum to let me trade my grey school trousers for my gingham summer dress as soon as the temperature hit double figures.
Now, 20 years on, even the minimal midis in neutral hues that I’ve sought out on the High Street over the years just feel a bit extra when I wear them. And that’s pairing them with chunky sandals or trainers…
I’ve realised they just don’t chime with my personal style, hence the clash: I love a minimal, practical look with masculine or edgy elements, and it’s rare that a dress ticks those boxes. Or that I’m in the mood to stray far from my tried and tested aesthetic.
Seeing as the majority of the high street’s current offering are floral and frilly, very few have made it past my dress trials. The ones I love, I’ve clung onto tight over the years, repairing missing buttons and having them tailored specially to fit. A black shirt dress from Massimo Dutti years ago that hits just above my ankle; a cream button-down linen midi from & Other Stories that looks great with trainers; and a checked mini dress from Ganni that feels edgy thanks to its tiny black and white check.
If you’re anything like me, or just wondering how I do it, read on for my guide to event dressing this summer, covering everything but the dress…
The city wedding
A wedding calls for a glamorous but comfortable look (as the festivities are typically a full day), and I’d argue a jumpsuit ticks both with ease. I always opt for a silky material as it feels more evening-appropriate, so silk and satin are perfect. This Mango number comes in a bold yet not OTT print, and it’s such a statement that you can keep your accessories pared back.
Bring along a cream blazer for the evening part of the ceremony: if the weather happens to be on the warmer side you can simply drape it over your shoulders.
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The garden party
Since when was a dress the wisest option for a garden party anyway? It’ll likely be windy at some point (Marilyn moment, anyone?) and you might have to sit on the grass, which means some Queen-like posing to avoid flashing. See? Shorts remove all of that faff.
Pair a longline denim pair with a pretty floral blouse and wedge espadrilles, the perfect heel for navigating grass but still feeling like you’ve made an effort.
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The boozy pub garden lunch
Any dress code goes for a pub lunch depending on who you’re with and the occasion, but if it’s for a Saturday catch-up with friends, I’d advise you to strike the smart/casual balance, and what does that better than jeans and a nice top?
A printed top looks great at the table and will stand out in all of your Instagram videos. Dressy flat shoes are a good option, but a pair of mid-heel sandals are ideal if you decide to go somewhere else for drinks after lunch.
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The glam evening on holiday
Evenings out on holiday are the nicest occasion to dress for: it’s still warm, the mood is always full of excitement and the night feels like it can go anywhere. Tailored shorts are a chic option for everything from dinner and drinks to dancing or chilling on the beach, especially if you’re keen to show off your fresh tan.
Pair with a liquid satin shirt in a bold summery shade and metallic heels, and finish with a handful of matching jewellery. Super-chic, and not a dress in sight.
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