Our fashion team’s guide to the best high street occasionwear for weddings and more

Our fashion team’s guide to the best high street occasionwear for weddings and more

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With our top selection of occasionwear dresses and two pieces from Phase Eight, Karen Millen, Coast, and more, you can be the best-dressed guest at any formal event this summer.

Best high street occasionwear from Karen Millen, Coast and more (Image: Mirror / Catherine Hack)

It can be difficult to decide what to wear as the summer eventwear season is already upon us. Race days, weddings, and garden parties are just a few examples of this.

That’s why our fashion team is here to help you out with some inspiration. From Newmarket-ready florals to designer-looking pleats and chic matching sets, we’ve found the very best occasionwear style pieces from the likes of Karen Millen, Coast and Phase Eight.Not to mention the finishing touches, from fascinators to clutch bags and heels, here’s everything you need to get through the season, without spending a fortune!

READ MORE: In the summer sale, Boden’s “smart-looking” linen pants that “fit perfectly” are reduced by £40.

Helen Flanagan sparkles at a concert wearing a Karen Millen midi dress for a £50 saving.

FLORAL FANCY

Model wearing floral matching set
Matching sets are always a good idea(Image: Catherine Hack )

Going a set over a dress is a great way to get the most value for your money when dressing for occasions. In this way, you can combine the two items in your wardrobe to give them even more unique looks. If you want that little bit of drama, make sure to finish your looks with a statement fascinator.

SHOP THE LOOK: Garden Floral Twill Bow Detail Top, £85 here and Garden Floral Twill Bow Woven Prom Skirt, £129 here, both Karen Millen, and Red Flower Pillbox, Phase Eight, £49 here.

LAVENDAR HAZE

Model in floral purple dress
3D florals are a huge occasionwear trend (Image: Catherine Hack)

Classic dainty florals are always fashionable, especially for formal wear. However, choose 3D appliques in place of florals if you want to update them for 2025. They give any outfit a fashionable twist and are fun, dramatic, and plaful.

Corsage Trim Layered Halter Neck Mini Dress, Coast, £110 here SHOP THE LOOK

PLEATS, IMMERTIEL

Model in pleated Phase Eight dress
Channel the designer look for less with Phase Eight(Image: Catherine Hack)

Always opt for pleats if you want to appear expensive. They reportedly give off an Issey Miyake vibe and are the best way to tone up your appearance. Although this year’s trend has been butter yellow, this stunning maxi from Phase Eight has a deeper, golden hue.

SHOP THE LOOK: Dionne Pleated Dress, Phase Eight, £189 here and Etsy Champagne Crystals & Mesh Beaded Bag, L.K.Bennett, £129 here

FRINGE RESULTS

Model in fringed Coast dress
Fringing is a great way to jazz up your look(Image: Catherine Hack )

Why not try some fringing if you want to give your occasionwear a little extra zhuzh? Due to its intriguing fringe detail and stunning sorbet shade, we adore this Coast halter neck dress in mint green. A contrasting color fascinator and a jewel-style bag complete the look.

SHOP THE LOOK: Muse Fringe Halter Neck Tie Back Midi Dress, Coast, £139 here and Crystal Clear Crystal Frame Clutch Bag, L.K.Bennett, £159 here

MAXI-MUM STYLE

Model wearing ASOS floral maxi dress
Long sleeves are great for protecting your arms in the summer sun(Image: Catherine Hack )
Continue reading the article.

As we already mentioned, florals are a foolproof choice that always looks classy and chic. If you’re looking for a little more modesty or want to shield your arms and legs from the summer sun, this ASOS long sleeve maxi is the ideal choice.

Source: Mirror

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