11 Chic Occasion-Wear Trends To Know This Summer

Statement trousers in sequins and patent leather were big news this past festive season; for summer they’ve been usurped by statement skirts. Pencil silhouettes that fall at the mid-calf or ankle are the perfect canvas for playful fabrics, such as sheer organza – seen at Carven – lace or sequins – both seen at Carolina Herrera. Play around with your pairings, too – like a fine-knit twin set to counterbalance a lace skirt, or an oversized tee with a sheer skirt. Keep your heels mid to low for a sophisticated feel.

Colour trends come and go, especially in occasion wear, which is why we often recommend sticking to timeless colours like black and navy for event pieces. But that’s not to say that trying out a new colour is a bad idea – a change is always good and the event season is the perfect time to try something different. We love the soft blue shade that flooded the SS24 catwalks – a muted sky blue with a powdery edge. Subtle, refined and flattering, it’s the perfect break from the norm. Take Prada’s cue and try styling with an unexpected pop of red, or follow Fendi’s lead and go for a bold orange accessory.

Bold blooms are always on trend, but this occasion season we’re drawn to softer, faded florals that look painterly and delicate. Muted pastel tones on layers of diaphanous organza and silk were notable on the catwalks – as seen at Zimmermann, Erdem and Givenchy – paired with scalloped edges, soft lace and fluttery hemlines. Take Zimmerman’s cue and try teaming with some flat metallic sandals and statement gold jewellery for a contemporary twist on formal wear.

Forever a shortcut to easy chic, co-ords really come into their own during events season. The perfect alternative to a dress, they look considered but effortless and do a lot of the hard work for you. Altuzarra’s overblown silky, polka dots were a particular favourite (a polka dot never dates), while Elie Saab’s floor-sweeping maxi skirt and shirt in crisp white cotton made the ultimate elegant co-ord. But you needn’t go maximalist – just look at Carolina Herrera’s simple but effective strapless top and wide-leg trouser combo for the perfect example of understated minimalism that still makes an impact.

We’re minimalists at heart, so the simplicity of the column dress is endlessly appealing. Clean lines, neutral colours and a floor-skimming hemline, make it the perfect blank canvas for statement accessories – like a colour-pop bag, shoes or jewellery. Valentino’s T-shirt-inspired style is the ultimate example of a high-low piece that can be dressed up or down, likewise Victoria Beckham’s satin number.

Bows can, at times, feel twee, but when done right, they can also add real impact. The key, we believe, is to stick to just one, be it oversized, as seen at Simone Rocha and Nina Ricci, or small, contrasting and understated, as seen at Giambattista Valli. Sticking to a singular bow feels more intentional and allows the detail they can add to an outfit to really shine. Opting for classic neutral colours also swerves the pretty-pretty connotations, making them feel more elegant.

Draping comes back around every summer, thanks to the ethereal, Grecian vibe it brings to pieces, particularly dresses. The catwalks were rich in great examples, from Saint Laurent’s bold mustard gown to Emilia Wickstead’s simple fitted dress with gathered detailing at the bust and shoulders. Combine draping with definition at the waist to avoid the silhouette becoming shapeless, and keep the rest of your look clean and simple.

Outerwear can often be an afterthought when it comes to occasion dressing, but with the weather becoming increasingly temperamental, it’s always worth putting some thought into it. Our go-to? A blazer, whether oversized and mannish, fitted, or simple and classic. The easiest item to throw over your shoulders when a chill sets in, and a piece you’ll wear again and again.

Metallics are made for events season – and they definitely shouldn’t be reserved for festive events, as they so often are. We’re loving softer takes on silver, which will look perfect in summer sunshine – from Simone Rocha’s blue-hued shade to Roksanda’s molten, creamy pewter. But if head-to-toe silver isn’t your thing, bring the trend in via accessories – statement heels or a shimmering silver bag make a big impact.

You may overlook suiting as occasion wear in the summer, but you shouldn’t. The current lean towards softer suiting silhouettes is perfect for dressy events, adding a nonchalant edge that feels contemporary and classic. It’s all about loose, oversized shapes in lighter, more fluid fabrics – like linen, cotton and hopsack – in neutral colours – such as soft peach, stone beige and creamy whites. Opt for trousers with pleat detailing and a high waist to create elegant volume, or go for a maxi-length skirt, as seen at Valentino.

Black is not off limits just because it’s spring or summer. Far from it, in fact. A long black dress is your secret weapon – so simple, so chic. Look for styles with simple but impactful silhouettes, like the asymmetric shoulder detailing seen at Emilia Wickstead and voluminous shape seen at Stella McCartney. When in doubt, unfussy is always best, so go low-key with your accessories and let the LBD do the hard work for you.