The Ultimate Summer Eveningwear Guide
Discover the perfect eveningwear looks for all occasions – from summer soirees to glamorous after-dark parties, and every other event in between
On a balmy summer night in the Hamptons, NET-A-PORTER’s CEO Alison Loehnis hosted an intimate dinner party at the Parrish Art Museum, and guests came dressed to impress. Read on to discover some of the chicest looks from the event and how to style them…
Maison Mayle’s ‘Izadora’ maxi is perfect for summer weddings and special occasions. Exclusive to NET-A-PORTER, it’s cut from slinky floral silk-jacquard decorated with romantic ruffles and guipure lace. The sleek silhouette means it works just as well with flats as it does with heels, meaning you can go from daytime events to balmy evening parties with just a simple change of footwear. If you want to amp things up a bit further after-hours, take cues from NET-A-PORTER’s CEO Alison Loehnis, by adding a chunky gold necklace. Another chic option is Proenza Schouler’s knitted ‘Silvia’ dress – the elegant open back is perfect for showing off sun-kissed skin. Pair it with Tom Ford’s sleek ‘Whitney’ mules for a low-key yet sophisticated look for upcoming summer soirees.
While winter is all about clever layering, summer is all about chic co-ords – the beauty being that you can pack just a few pieces in your luggage that can easily be mixed and matched to create multiple outfits. Dolce&Gabbana’s sweet bandeau top and mini skirt are both decorated with a vibrant motif inspired by Italian maiolica pottery. Wear them together with summery espadrilles for drinks receptions and dinner by the sea, or separately with denim or relaxed tailoring during the day.
A floral midi dress is a fail-safe for busy evenings with multiple plans in your diary. Etro’s gorgeous ruffle-trimmed style is polished enough for events but just relaxed enough for an intimate dinner with friends, too. Style it with Gianvito Rossi’s ‘Portofino’ sandals and a delicate gold bracelet, like Suzanne Kalan’s diamond-encrusted tennis style for date nights and garden parties. Or, for an alternative to florals, try polka dots – Dolce&Gabbana’s strappy sundress is a glamorous choice for living out your la dolce vita dreams.
The brilliance of a little black dress is that it works all year round. New York label Khaite’s sleek ‘Mags’ mini is cut from silk-gazar in a timeless fit-and-flare silhouette that echoes the elegance of styles from the ’50s and ’60s in a truly modern way. Complement the flouncy, voluminous hem with strappy sandals and slip an oversized blazer over your shoulders for drinks under the stars. Alternatively, if you crave a little more color, you can’t go wrong with red. Jacquemus’ showstopping mini will ensure you turn heads the minute you walk into a room. Embrace the shade from head to toe with a matching red lip and heels.
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