Here at SilkFred, there’s nothing we love more than an excuse to get dolled up. But figuring out what to wear to a formal event, whether it’s an awards do, a black tie dinner or a 30th birthday party, can be tricky, to say the least.
You’ve got strict dress codes to adhere to, tricky venues and weather conditions to consider, and god forbid you turn up in the same dress as somebody else (gasp!). Most importantly, we know how crucial it is to feel good in what you’re wearing so you can confidently enter your formal gathering with your head held high.
In this guide, the style gurus at SilkFred have pulled together their top tips on what to wear to various formal events – from cute cocktail dresses to elegant floor-length ball gowns – we’ve got a gorgeous dress to suit every occasion.
Ready to be the belle of the ball? Here’s our ultimate guide to formal dresses. Just don’t forget the glass slippers…
Dresses To Wear To A Black Tie Event
Got a black tie event coming up? First off, lucky you! Black tie is the perfect opportunity to put your glad rags on and feel a million dollars. But if you’re wondering what exactly a black tie dresscode actually means for a woman, it’s best translated as a long dress (that means floor-length!) and in an ‘evening-appropriate’ materials, like velvet, silk, satin, lace, tulle or chiffon. Basically, it’s fancy fancy.
Velvet floor-length dresses are our favourite kind of black tie attire, particularly if your event is in the colder autumn or winter months. Go for a jewel tone like ruby red, emerald green or sapphire blue and you’ll be sure to be the diamond of the season. Don’t forget to pair with an elegant clutch bag and matching heels – not too high so you’re able to hit the dance floor all night long. Even Lady Whistledown approves…
Shop our full black tie dresses collection.
Dresses To Wear To A (Formal) Birthday Party
Got a special birthday party in the diary? Perhaps a friend’s 30th or engagement do? A stunning cocktail dress is just the ticket. Cocktail dresses come in many different styles, cuts and lengths, but generally they’re just below or above the knee. We love a bodycon cocktail dress in a classic deep shade like navy, forest green or burgundy, for a timeless look.
To style, add some statement jewellery, slip into your favourite sleek stilettos, and you’re all set. And if it’s chilly, you could always pop on a chic black blazer.
Psst! Not sure what a cocktail dress is and unsure whether your event requires one? Don’t worry! Check out our handy guide…
Dresses To Wear To A Ball
Dressing for a ball is no easy feat if you don’t have a Fairy God Mother to hand. Luckily, you’ve got us instead. Here at SilkFred, we’ve got a whole array of entrance-making ball gown dresses in a mix of colours, fabrics and fits, from sparkly plunge maxis to elegant backless styles.
Whatever your preference, make sure to style with some heels that complement your dress shade, and a clutch bag to match. Accessorise with dainty drop earrings or a pendant necklace, and drape a shawl over your shoulders if it’s due to be a little chilly.
Now, you’re ready for the ball. Just remember to be home before midnight, Cinderella…
Dresses To Wear To A Wedding
If you’ve got a Save the Date in the post and are already thinking about what to wear, we’re here to help. Wedding guest dresses can come in all shapes and sizes, from extravagant puff ball midis to slinky slip dresses – and everything in-between.
Our best advice is to consider the time of year and venue to help inform your dress choice. Traditional wedding in a church? Go for an elegant midi dress. Cutesy backyard summer wedding? Florals are your best friend. Destination wedding abroad? Go for a floaty maxi in a tropical print. And remember ladies, under no circumstances should you wear the colour white!
Check out our edit on wedding guest dresses today.
Dresses To Wear To A NYE Party
Looking for something to wear for a New Year’s Eve party? One word: glitter. There’s no better time than NYE to crack open your sparkliest, glittery dresses. And if you aks us, the more sequins the better.
To really sparkle under the disco ball, we suggest a sequin mini dress in black, silver or gold. To style, add some statement jewellery, wear a red lip, and slip into your favourite dancing shoes.
And there we have it! Our ultimate guide to dressing formally. Now that you’ve sorted out your glad rags attire, what about casual dress occasions? We’ve thought of that, too. Check out our guide on dresses for every occasion. You can thank us later…
