From sunglasses to shoes: How to dress for summer events without overthinking it
Summer’s here and like most people, you will see your social calendar fill up quickly. One weekend you might be at a barbecue, the next a wedding, followed by a garden party or dinner with friends. You will need different outfits for every event, but it doesn’t have to take hours of planning each time. The trick is to build your wardrobe around versatile pieces that feel comfortable and work across all these occasions. Read on for some practical tips on how you can easily create a number of stylish looks to make summer dressing easier – leaving you more time to go out and enjoy the season.
Maxis and midis: Rely on timeless dresses
When time is limited, a great dress really comes into its own. Think classic styles that you can adapt for virtually any event. Take the time to browse a collection of women’s black dresses for endless styling options. A black midi dress works beautifully with flat leather sandals and a woven tote if you’re headed out for brunch with friends. You can restyle the same dress to be evening-ready by adding in heels, bold statement jewellry and a decorative clutch bag. And don’t forget maxi styles – they work for everything from weddings to summer garden parties.
Keep accessories simple and fuss-free
When it’s time to add the finishing touches, look through your accessories drawer. But don’t go overboard – you only need a few carefully chosen pieces to create an impact. Look to statement earrings to dress up a simple outfit. A crossbody bag is both stylish and functional. If you want to add a bit of personality without looking overdone, put on a pair of oversized or cateye sunglasses.
Sandals and trainers: Choose comfortable footwear
The right shoes can really make or break your experience of an event. If you’ll be spending hours on your feet, comfort is as important as style. Flat sandals are ideal for relaxed gatherings such as BBQs or garden parties. If you want to a bit of extra height but don’t want to be hobbled by stilettos, then wedges offer a more comfortable alternative. You can even wear smart white trainers with many dresses, especially for events such as concerts where you’ll be walking or standing for long periods.
Simple layers for changing weather
UK summers are famously unpredictable, so pack an extra layer in case the evening temperature dips. Items such as lightweight denim jackets, cardigans or overshirts will keep you warm without hiding your outfit.
Stick to a neutral colour palette
If you want to create more looks with fewer clothes, then neutral shades like black, white, beige and navy will make it much easier to plan your outfits. These shades work well with each other (plus, you can quickly update your look by simply changing your shoes or accessories).
Summer style for a busy calendar
You want to spend your summer out and about enjoying the social season, not planning outfits. By investing in a few classic staples and taking the time to make smart styling choices, you can enjoy every summer event without spending hours wondering what to wear.
