Deciding what to wear to special occasions is often tricky – and especially if conventional cocktail dresses aren’t really your thing. Luckily, more and more of our wardrobe favourites are falling into the category of ‘evening appropriate’, from jumpsuits to floaty culottes and midi skirts. So whether you’re off to after-work drinks or a wedding reception, here are five evening looks that most definitely aren’t dresses…
1. The Embellished Top
The key component of any after-dark wardrobe? The going-out top. Artfully adorned with embroidered pink flowers and spots on sheer black mesh, this embellished design offers an elevated take on the evening classic. Style with second-skin denim and pointed ankle boots, adding a little extra decadence with a satin clutch bag in a deep plum hue.
2. The Tailored Trousers
For those going straight from desk to date night, a pair of tailored trousers make the ultimate transition piece. Designed with a slim, cropped leg, this kick-flare pair in clean black presents a polished aesthetic that’s perfect for the office, while also remaining relevant to this season’s seventies mood. Take them to your next night out with a sequin-embellished tee and plush velvet accessories.
3. The PU Midi
Every evening wardrobe has a hero piece – and we think this leather-look midi skirt is most definitely ours. Falling just below the knees, this flattering A-line style is both elegant and edgy – we like it best worn with an embellished top, heeled ankle boots and a simple cross-body bag.
4. The Culottes
How to wear culottes for evening invites? Opt for an all-black jacquard pair with small-scale stars, tucking in a polka-dot print top for an undeniably chic contrast. When it comes to the accessories, look to sumptuous velvet textures in rich jewel tones to lift the look.
5. The Jumpsuit
Jumpsuits = the coolest alternative to classic evening dresses. For something that’ll work at every formal invite, go for a cropped-leg style in jet-black jacquard, detailed with an exposed back spliced with sheer lace. Elongate your silhouette with velvet block heels, finishing the look with a hand-beaded clutch bag in glamorous gold.
Read More
3 Limited Edition Dresses to Fall in Love With
3 New Season Prints to Wear to Every Event
How to Style Jeans from Day to Night