What To Wear To A Summer Party
Whether you’re heading to a garden party, alfresco nuptials or a chic cocktail event in the city, our ultimate guide to summer-party dressing has you covered. From the perennially chic ’90s slip dress to statement gowns in balmy sunset orange, read on to find your dream party look…
Bold sunset hues
Taller Marmo has quickly gained a cult following for its glamorous feather-trimmed gowns in modest, billowing silhouettes. The aptly named ‘Gala’ dress – which is available only at NET-A-PORTER – is ideal for black-tie events and evening soirées. Worn by British actor Emma Appleton at the V&A Summer Party celebrating the opening of the DIVA exhibition, the dress’s vibrant orange hue exudes a festival mood. If you prefer a shorter hemline, consider Lanvin’s sunflower-yellow, cape-effect mini dress – pair with neutral sandals and a bright shoulder bag.
The little blue dress
While the LBD remains an eveningwear staple, denim blue offers a fresh neutral shade with a sophisticated feel. Take notes from Alice Casely-Hayford, NET-A-PORTER’s content director, and wear a refined maxi dress with pointed-toe pumps and a beaded clutch. We love Christopher Esber’s stretch-tulle style, which is available only at NET-A-PORTER. The elegant shade of moonlight blue complements a cosmic palette: think crystal-embellished accessories and white-gold jewels. Elsewhere, Alexander McQueen offers a chic navy-blue midi dress featuring a rebellious zipper detail on one side. Lean into the subtle grunge element of this look with leather boots.
A ’90s slip dress
Synonymous with a minimalist aesthetic, the enduring elegance of a slip dress is its simplicity. Christopher Esber’s sheer ’90s-inspired version – a NET-A-PORTER exclusive – is a romantic choice for a destination wedding or a gallery opening. Cut from sage-green silk that creates a softly draped silhouette, style yours like writer and entrepreneur Betty Bachz, with pastel pumps and a pretty hair bow. If you prefer warmer tones, slip into Helmut Lang’s chocolate-pink, silk midi dress, which looks divine with strappy sandals and gold jewels.
Ethereal eveningwear
When black-tie events present themselves, indulge in the glamour of the occasion with an opulent, goddess-inspired gown. Oscar de la Renta’s cape-effect kaftan – another NET-A-PORTER exclusive – is cut from diaphanous silk that’s embellished with silver- and gold-tone sequins. Complete the look like author Emma Dabiri, with a high-shine clutch in a matching ivory hue, and metallic heels. Stella McCartney + NET SUSTAIN’s regal ‘Falabella’ gown, on the other hand, is inspired by Ancient Greek robes and looks divine with crystal-embellished sandals. Also a NET-A-PORTER exclusive, it’s cut from responsibly sourced viscose that’s certified by the Forest Stewardship Council.
Mini lengths
A playful mini dress is perfect for a garden party, while the short hemline is great for dancing until dawn. Leaving ample room for showing off statement heels, the key to styling a mini dress is matching the fabric to the occasion. Emilia Wickstead’s ’60s-inspired style – a NET-A-PORTER exclusive – is cut from breezy cotton in a summery gingham pattern that’s a classic choice for alfresco venues. Look to author Otegha Uwagba for styling cues and complete the retro aesthetic with a structured vintage purse and matching white mules. For evening glamour, Norma Kamali’s lilac halterneck mini dress is reminiscent of styles from the ’60s and ’70s. Wear with platform heels and a beaded clutch.
Summer whites
Few wardrobe staples embody leisurely summer days quite like a crisp white dress, and 16Arlington’s cult ‘Solaria’ style comes in a chic ivory hue that’s available only at NET-A-PORTER. Wear yours like beauty editor Tish Weinstock, with a black clutch and heels, for a directional contrast. Meanwhile, Proenza Schouler’s versatile strapless midi dress can be dressed up or down – with sneakers and a statement necklace or barely-there heels and a shoulder bag.
The finishing touches
A sleek heeled sandal or statement clutch easily elevates the simplest of outfits when impromptu plans arise. Swap your office-ready flats for Manolo Blahnik’s elegant ‘Leva’ sandals, which add instant polish to midi dresses, denim and tailoring alike. As for your perfect party companion, slip on Clio Peppiatt’s ‘Crystal Pearl’ shoulder bag. A NET-A-PORTER exclusive style, the bag’s pretty embellishments bring a subtle sparkle to wedding-guest and bridal looks.
As a company dedicated to empowering and celebrating Incredible Women, NET-A-PORTER is proud to partner with the V&A in supporting the DIVA exhibition. DIVA opens at the Victoria and Albert Museum, South Kensington, London, on June 24