How To Nail Elegant Evening Wear

Party season is upon us once again, which means event dressing. If your wardrobe is heavy on casual or work wear, finding an outfit for a special event can result in the need to buy something – anything – last-minute. Whether you’ve got a Christmas party or New Year’s drinks on your calendar, it can be tricky to shop elegant evening wear while avoiding seasonal trends (think: statement cutouts, loud prints and eye-popping colours). The goal, as always, is to choose timeless pieces. Ideally, you’re after classic styles that spotlight simple silhouettes and high-quality fabrications. Choosing considered pieces that will last means you’ll see a return on your investment over years (not months). So, how to find these elegant evening-wear pieces? We’ll tell you.

1. Choose quality over quantity

This ideology of minimalist dressing holds that it’s best (for the environment and, ultimately, your pocket) to shop fewer but better quality items than to have a wardrobe bursting with fast fashion. Look for high-quality fabrics like silk, silk blends (cotton, linen, jersey) and other natural fibres that will stand the test of time.

2. Avoid seasonal trends

Trends can be fun to play with, but for event wear that’ll last beyond a season, it’s smarter to invest in classic pieces that won’t date. Leave loud prints and hot-right-now silhouettes on the rail in favour of timeless fits. Choose pieces in a versatile neutral palette (chocolate, champagne, white, black), and they’ll last even longer.

3. Consider shopping separates

Elegant dressing doesn’t have to mean wearing a dress; separates work just as well and have bonus built-in versatility. For instance, opt for a skirt and top set and you’ve got three outfit options to work with – swap out the skirt or top, and you’ve got a whole new fit. A beautifully draped suit is another always chic option.

4. Elevate with accessories

With a capsule wardrobe of elegant accessories, you can dress up everything from a simple silk dress to jeans and a ‘going out’ top. Evening jewellery is a quick and easy addition to any ensemble – go for a statement earring or standout necklace. Heels instantly elevate, too – simple strappy styles or pumps transcend trends.

Shop our edit of elegant styles now.

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