Occasion wear

There are months when your calendar suddenly fills up with events that call for a new outfit. A 21st birthday dinner, your best friend’s housewarming, an engagement party, and maybe even a wedding. Fun, of course, but at the same time you’re thinking: what do I wear? Occasion wear is exactly that. Clothing for occasions that call for a little more than an ordinary Tuesday, while still allowing you to feel like yourself. We’ll take you through the best options for every occasion, from a chic 21st birthday dinner dress to a standout birthday outfit worthy of your Instagram feed: we've got your back. Because whatever you choose, your outfit should feel like your main character moment.

This is the category you dress up for most often, and it comes with endless possibilities at the same time. On your own birthday, you want to be party ready, but without the hassle. A co-ord set does most of the work here: one color, a top and trousers or skirt, and you won’t have to think about it for the rest of the evening. Satin or sequins if you’re celebrating in the evening, colourful chic with a blazer over it if it’s an afternoon drinks party.

For a 21st birthday dinner, you can go a little extra, because this is the evening whose photos will be circulating for months. Has no dress code been given? A little black dress with heels is the classic that always works. Prefer not to wear a dress at the table? Trousers with a subtly shiny top are just as dinner ready, and you’ll be more comfortable during the speeches. 

A housewarming outfit is the most practical of the lot. Whether you’re giving or taking the house tour, you’ll be moving around a lot, so an outfit that suits the occasion is a real must. Think casual chic: jeans with a top that doesn’t feel basic, or a skort with a cozy knit. Boots instead of heels, because you’ll hardly be sitting down.

And then there’s an engagement party. Dressier than a birthday, but not the wedding yet, so save your most special look for later. A midi dress in one bright color is the best choice here. Prefer to keep things a little more subtle? Go for chocolate brown or olive green, and complete your look with your favorite jewelry.

What should you wear to a wedding as a guest? A midi dress is your safest—and at the same time most beautiful—answer. Go for a soft shade such as butter yellow or another pastel color. If the ceremony is outdoors, go for garden party glam. That means slingbacks or block heels instead of stilettos, and lace or satin instead of a heavy fabric.

Not a fan of dresses? A set with wide-leg pants and a top with a beautiful neckline is just as festive and comfortable all day long. Add a necklace, one statement ring, and it’s a look. A small shoulder bag as a finishing touch is enough for all your essentials: your phone, lipstick, and plasters for later on the dance floor.

An outfit for a graduation ceremony sits somewhere between formal and festive. Call it graduation glow: polished where it needs to be, while still completely you. Here too, a co-ord set works perfectly. Think a smart pair of trousers with a matching blazer, or a playful waistcoat with matching pants to complete your outfit in one go. Choose solid colors over prints so you look great both on stage and in all the photos.