Summer soirees are becoming a distant memory as we head into the cooler months; however we happily welcome balls and galas onto our social calendar. Such events are a wonderful opportunity to embrace the act of dressing up and we have a few ideas to help inspire you on your well-dressed way.
Elvery Maxi, $339 by Amber Whitecliffe (left), Helena Slip, $360 by Miss Crabb (centre), Margaux Gown, $995 by Natalie Chan (right).
School balls are a sartorial milestone for most; and we think it’s a great chance to step up to the fashion plate and don a gown worthy of a spot in the limelight. You could invest in a gorgeous creation from a local designer such as this pretty blush number above by Amber Whitecliffe, one of Miss Crabb’s sophisticated slips or this gorgeous lace back design by Natalie Chan.
White Gown, POA from Modes (left), Karina Dress, AU$169 from Forever New (centre), Sophia Gown, $289 from Pagani (right).
Modes Boutique is renowned for their extensive range of eveningwear and has long been dressing many ball attendees over the years; this structured white gown from their current range is one of our top picks. Chain stores often have a few formal options in their collections too, like this emerald green design pictured above with beautiful back detailing from Forever New, or this glamorous lace gown from Pagani. Enquire into whether or not your chosen retailer offers a dress registry for their customers, so you can be sure you won’t (gasp!) be wearing the same dress as another at your event. Designer Wardrobe is another great option as they offer a wide range of pre-loved dresses for sale, and also have rental services which may be friendlier on your budget.
Amore Gown, $299 by Ruby (left), Sia Gown, $789 by Harman Grubisa (centre), Three Days Slip Gown, $325 by Children of Promise (right).
Perhaps you are off to a gala, we think this scarlet red ruffled number by Ruby would look gorgeous in a night time setting or you could go for gold in this amazing gown by Harman Grubisa. The blush hued slip pictured on the right by emerging label Children of Promise, would provide a great canvas to work some statement accessories into your look.
More and more local designers are adding made-to-measure services to their repertoire and it could be an avenue to explore, to really ensure you come away with a one of a kind design.
Cora Top, $395 and Opera Skirt, $1500 by Natalie Chan (left), Jett Jumpsuit, $349 by Moochi (centre), Moonlighting Dress, $520 by Miss Crabb (right).
If a long gown simply isn’t for you, you could consider a skirt and top like this ensemble by Natalie Chan-the amazing silk dupion skirt (with pockets!) is available in a few different colour ways. Moochi have designed an oh-so-cool plunge front jumpsuit as part of their Winter collection and it would be a bold choice to wear to an evening event. Or there is always the option of a cocktail dress, in which case you should opt for a design in a luxurious fabric so as to not look too casual, making this silk crepe de chine dress by Miss Crabb a great choice.
Ultimately you should aim to choose an outfit that is both flattering and comfortable as well as reflecting your personal style. But perhaps the most important prerequisite – it must be suitable for dancing the night away in!
Images supplied.