I have a ton of weddings approaching over the next few months, but I only want to invest in one dress for them all. What’s the most versatile style for looking my best through August and early fall?
If you’re searching for a frock that will do double – and perhaps even triple – duty during wedding season and beyond, a sleeved dress (no shirtdresses, too casual!) in a lighter, non-shiny fabric (no silk or satin!) will be the tried-and-true piece that gets you through multiple nuptials. You won’t have to fuss with a shawl or scarf, and with a few styling updates (wearing a shorter dress over slim trousers, for example), it will take you into cooler months and less dressy occasions with ease.
Amy Powney, creative director of London-based label Mother of Pearl, charmed the crowd at her spring/summer 2018 runway show with a selection of sleeved dresses in bold patterns from florals to stripes; my particular favourite was a polka dotted frock in a mix of fabrics, gathered at the hem and styled with shoes featuring voluminous bows. It was a feisty, festive mix perfect for an outdoor wedding.
Reiss’ breezy above-the-knee dress in a multi-hued splash print will shine at a summer wedding when paired with black wedge sandals (I say avoid wearing skinny heels unless you are guaranteed to avoid the great outdoors and slowly sinking your stiletto spikes into the turf) and geometric metallic earrings; ditto Banana Republic’s sweet LBD. As the temperature drops and wedding season slows, wear them with opaque tights and booties or loafers for work.
For those who love length, Rixo London’s floral maxi is whimsical enough for an evening on the dancefloor when worn with embellished flats and costume pearl or crystal jewellery, yet when paired with knee-high boots and simpler accessories, will get you from office to after-work cocktails. A bit of flair mixed with versatility make the perfect couple.
Tie-sleeve shift dress, $160 at Banana Republic (bananarepublic.gapcanada.ca).HANDOUT IMAGE. NO CREDIT REQUIRE
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