Cracking the Dress Code
What to wear (and what not to) for every kind of invite—plus the rental, rewear and underwear tricks that make it work.
The invites are stacking up—weddings, race days, graduation dinners, garden parties—sometimes all in the same week. And every one of them seems to come with a dress code that makes you doubt your entire wardrobe. The good news? You don’t have to buy new for every single one. Renting is smarter than ever. And so is shopping with rewear in mind. The trick is knowing what works, what doesn’t, and how to read the room. Here’s how to dress with confidence—whether you rent, borrow or buy something worth wearing again.
How to Succeed at BLACK TIE
Big Impact, Easy Confidence
If you’re going to do it, do it properly—floor-sweeping satin, chiffon or velvet. Black is timeless. Jewel tones are always safe. Just skip white, cream, or anything that screams bridesmaid.
In the city, lean into structure. In the country, let it flow. In Scotland? Check you can ceilidh in it. And if it’s outdoors, avoid stilettos. Go for a block heel or flat. Your feet will thank you later.
What to wear to a SUMMER WEDDING
Elegant. Joyful. Effortless.
It’s their day, not your catwalk moment. You want to look great without stealing focus. Solid colours—pastels, brights, or rich jewel tones—are your safest bet. Prints can date quickly.
Go for fabrics that move with you—silk, cotton blends, or anything with a bit of flow. Add a clutch. Some standout earrings. Done.
COCKTAIL party dressing made easy
Polished. Uncomplicated. Relaxed.
If you’ve got the legs, show them off with a mini. Otherwise, think midi lengths, easy slip dresses or relaxed tailoring. Black always works.
Bold colours are fine if the setting feels right—just keep the shape simple and the styling clean. A bow detail? Go for it. Just avoid anything that feels like nightclub energy.
How to do FLORALS
Bold. Modern. No Frills.
Forget the tiny, ditsy prints. Go big. Go graphic. Make it feel current.
Let the dress do the work—keep everything else simple. Minimal sandals. Statement earrings. The goal is edge, not garden display.
BEACH OR BAREFOOT
Relaxed. Breezy. Still Pulled Together.
Think linen, floaty maxis, soft shapes and natural tones. Avoid clingy fabrics or anything that feels overdone.
Ditch the heels—espadrilles or sandals are all you need. If the invite suggests colour, follow the lead. Otherwise, light and natural works every time.
How to Nail REGISTRY OFFICE OR DAYTIME WEDDING
Smart. Intentional. Understated.
A great co-ord. A sharp shirt dress. A tailored midi. You’re aiming for day-appropriate but polished.
Keep the shoes sensible—no skyscraper heels, no trainers. You’re there to celebrate, not steal the spotlight.
THE UNDERWEAR THAT MAKES IT WORK
The best outfit is only as good as what’s underneath. Here’s how to get it right:
• Strapless or One-Shoulder: A proper strapless bra. Try it on. Move around. Check it holds.
• Backless: Stick-on cups or low-back bodies. The goal is invisible support.
• Clingy or Sheer: Nude, seamless underwear—not white. Trust us.
• Smoothing: A light slip works wonders. Shapewear is fine, but you need to breathe.
Try the full look in daylight before the day. You’ll catch what you miss under artificial light.
From city nights to seaside vows, the only rule is to feel like yourself—just dialled up a little. Whether you rent, borrow or buy, dress like you mean it.