every occasion is special

Free of complications, the right dress will take you everywhere – from race day to the wedding of the year. Summer offers a prime opportunity to play with print – embrace new iterations of the polka dot or bold stripes cast in crisp cotton. Dresses aren’t your thing? Alternatives like a well-cut jumpsuit or midi skirt offer unexpected flair.

Next, you’ll need accessories to go with that. Event footwear is a tricky step to navigate, but practicality is key; a block or wedge heel will see you through grass and gravel, while a point-toe flat will prove to look equally polished and ensure you’re the last one standing. Likewise, a bag that can be dressed up or down will carry you through your social calendar; worn on the shoulder or cross-body, a chain-strap performs for galas and garden parties alike.

Top it all off with tailoring – ever a trusty companion for your entrance through to the evening chill. Far from stuffy, this season’s pastel blazers offer a fresh elegance when shrugged off the shoulder. Finally, don’t forget the transformative power of the finer details. Adopt statement earrings accessorised with swept-back hair and no one would ever know it’s that dress’ second outing.

While a tuxedo at a black-tie event is non-negotiable, other occasions allow you to exercise more discretion – particularly in the heat of the season. A formal affair calls for a grey or navy suit paired with a proper dress shirt. While the choice of a brogue, loafer or Derby is yours, a round toe never goes out of fashion.

If your invitation reads ‘casual’, act accordingly. It's summer, after all, so eschew inky hues for a palatable powder blue or experiment with lighter textures like breezy linens – a smart choice when dealing with balmy temperatures. Alternatively, introduce some laidback additions to your tailoring, like a white t-shirt and pristine trainers to match. A return to darker suiting is your best bet here – classic black teamed with casual touches strikes the ideal balance.

Still stumped by the dress code? Choose a shirt with a collar that works with and without a tie, accompanied by a jacket. This gives you the option to remove one or both elements should you find yourself too overdressed, allowing you to focus your attention on having a great time.