Dressing well for a special occasion
Special occasions ask for more than a good outfit. A wedding, christening, summer party or evening celebration each has its own dress code, setting and expected level of formality, so the first step is to confirm it with the host or check the invitation. Look at the venue too. A marquee on grass, a city hotel and a winter barn wedding call for different shoes, fabrics and layers.
Next, decide which piece needs to work hardest. Choose one item you will wear again, such as a tailored dress or a well-cut suit, and build the rest of the look around it. Think about comfort for long days on your feet, the British weather on the way there and back, and how colours and textures will look in daylight and under flash. A few reliable accessories will do far more than a pile of impulse buys.
How to choose outfits and accessories that work
Start with fit, because it matters more than the label or the trend. On dresses, check the shoulders, waist and hem, and make sure you can sit, raise your arms and walk comfortably. Trousers should break correctly over the shoes you plan to wear. Fabric is the next criterion. Lightweight crepe, satin and fine wool drape well across most seasons, while stiff synthetics can look flat in photographs and feel warm in a crowded room. Consider lining and opacity as well, particularly for pale or sheer designs worn in bright daylight.
Every choice involves a trade-off. Statement jewellery can lift a simple dress, but it can compete with a busy print, so keep one focal point. Heels look polished but can be punishing over several hours. Block heels, low-cut courts or well-made flats are often a sensible compromise. Designer pieces may last longer and show more craftsmanship, while high-street options let you try a look without a large commitment. Think honestly about how often you will wear the outfit again before spending heavily on it.
Buy the main piece for the occasion first, then choose accessories that repeat one of its tones and leave room for one focal point.
From the editors
Common mistakes include buying for a sale rather than the occasion, forgetting to check the dress code and ordering only one size. Many shoppers also overlook the small items that complete a look, such as a clutch big enough for a phone and card, hosiery that suits the shade of the shoes, or a belt that matches the bag. Before the day, wear the complete outfit at home, walk around, sit down and check it in the kind of lighting you will be in.
What to look for in your occasion wardrobe
For each item we name a store where you can start comparing.
Occasion dress
A fitted or A-line dress in a fabric that suits the season and venue is a reliable base for most events. Choose a silhouette you feel comfortable sitting down in.
Search termsoccasion dress · event dress · wedding guest dress
Our recommendationkarenmillen.comBest for dressesOccasion shoes with a manageable heel
Closed or strappy shoes in a neutral or metallic tone work with many outfits. Pick a heel height you can comfortably hold for several hours.
Search termsoccasion shoes · block heel · formal footwear
Our recommendationoffice.co.ukFootwear focusStatement earrings
One pair of drop or sculpted earrings can lift a plain dress without overwhelming it. Keep the rest of your jewellery understated so the look stays balanced.
Search termsstatement earrings · drop earrings · event jewellery
Our recommendationmissoma.comGold and silver jewellerySmall structured clutch
A compact bag with a chain or short strap leaves your hands free and holds the essentials. Choose a shade that repeats a tone already in the outfit.
Search termsoccasion clutch · evening bag · party bag
Our recommendationhouseoffraser.co.ukMulti-brand choiceSilk or satin bow tie
For men, a bow tie or tie in silk or satin adds polish to a suit or dinner jacket. Check that its width suits the shape of your collar and lapels.
Search termsbow tie · silk tie · formal accessories
Our recommendationtiesplanet.comTies and cufflinks
Where to start shopping
Begin with the dress code and a shortlist of two or three outfit options that suit the season and venue. Then work from the largest item down. For dresses and polished occasionwear, karenmillen.com offers a focused range of pieces for formal events, while quizclothing.co.uk gives you a broader selection of party and occasion styles at varied price points. Once the main piece is chosen, look at footwear on office.co.uk, which has heeled and flat styles that can carry you through a long day. Leave jewellery until last so you can match metals and stones to the outfit. Missoma.com is a good option for gold and silver pieces that layer well. Try everything on together, and keep receipts until you have worn the outfit.
Before you order
- Check the dress code on the invitation or with the host.
- Note the venue type, season and time of day.
- Measure your key dimensions and compare them with the size guide.
- Try the full outfit on with the shoes and accessories you plan to wear.
- Walk, sit and raise your arms to test comfort.
- Choose one statement item and keep the rest understated.
- Keep receipts and check the returns information before you order.
The stores at a glance
karenmillen.com
Best for dressesKaren Millen offers a focused range of dresses and polished pieces for formal occasions.
Recommended for Occasion dress
quizclothing.co.uk
Good for occasionwearQuiz carries party and occasion dresses, tops and accessories at a range of price points.
houseoffraser.co.uk
Multi-brand choiceHouse of Fraser brings together clothing, shoes, bags and jewellery from several brands in one place.
Recommended for Small structured clutch
apricotonline.co.uk
Playful printsApricot suits shoppers who want dresses and tops with statement designs for a lighter, more expressive look.
office.co.uk
Footwear focusOffice is useful for occasion shoes, boots and sandals when you need a comfortable finish for a long day.
Recommended for Occasion shoes with a manageable heel
missoma.com
Gold and silver jewelleryMissoma offers necklaces, earrings and rings that work well as a single statement piece.
Recommended for Statement earrings
tiesplanet.com
Ties and cufflinksTies Planet is handy for bow ties, cravats, cufflinks and scarves to complete a formal look.
Recommended for Silk or satin bow tie
We may earn a commission when you buy through links on this page, at no extra cost to you. How we make money
Frequently asked questions
How do I find out the dress code for a wedding?
Check the invitation and any wording on the website or wedding information card. If it says black tie, lounge suit or cocktail attire, follow that guidance; if in doubt, ask the couple or a close member of the wedding party.
Should I buy an outfit or accessories first?
Buy the main piece first, such as a dress or suit, because it sets the colour, formality and fit of everything else. Accessories are easier to match once the base outfit is settled.
How can I make an outfit comfortable for a long event?
Choose breathable fabrics, shoes you have already worn for a few hours, and a shape that allows you to sit and move easily. Carrying a light wrap or jacket also helps if the venue temperature changes.
Is it worth paying more for occasion clothing?
It depends on how often you will wear it. A well-made piece in a classic cut can be worn to several events, whereas a trend-led style may only suit one occasion.
TransparencySome links to stores may be partner links. If you buy through them, we may earn a commission – the price stays the same for you. We choose the stores independently. How we make money
