Occasion Dressing Tips

Are you also finding you've got events on your calendar where you need to figure out what you are going to wear? Spring/Summer are traditionally the seasons for social gatherings, and it may feel a little daunting after the hiatus we've been on when it comes to putting together an outfit.

We've gone so long without having the opportunity to properly celebrate special occasions - we need to enjoy them! However, not knowing what to wear; or not liking what we are wearing certainly takes away from that joy.

I've said this before, but I LOVE the ease of one and done dressing - especially when it comes to occasion outfits. Jumpsuits and dresses are such easy pieces as the majority of the look is done...you just need to add footwear and accessories.

What I am loving and seeing a lot of at the moment:

Wrap Dresses: These are flattering on so many body types.

Shirt Dresses: These always look so elevated and pulled together.

Puffed sleeves: We are still seeing lots of statement sleeves.

Wide-leg jumpsuits: This silhouette feels very chic and modern.

Eye-catching: We are seeing a lot of bold prints and saturated hues

Any length goes: We are seeing mini, midi and maxi dresses this season.

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If you have an upcoming occasion to dress for my #1 tip is to (if possible) plan in advance! Here are some suggestions of where to look and start: Shop Your Closet: It's so easy for our first instinct to be that we need to purchase something new - especially when it comes to special occasions. But, my best advice is to start by looking at what's already in your closet. I just had a "Shop your closet" styling session with a client and we managed to style outfits from her closet for several upcoming events. I'll be attending a special ceremony in June for my husband's new position. I've already shopped my closet and decided to wear a jumpsuit and blazer combination that I already have and love. I just purchased a new floral lace cami to freshen the look up a bit. Consignment/Rental: There are so many options now in the world of consignment and this can be a fabulous option when it comes to occasion-wear. Some local shops I'd recommend checking out are: Mine & Yours and Turnabout. On-line consignment (Poshmark, My Wardrobe) also has great potential if you are familiar with particular brands and how they fit you in terms of sizing. While a lot of occasion rental companies in Canada didn't seem to survive the pandemic, The Fitzroy may be worth checking out as they carry a range of designers and could be a good option to consider for a dressier event. Buying new: It's always best if you have the opportunity to try something on if purchasing new. I love supporting local, so if there is a boutique in your neighbourhood; that's always a fun place to start and can increase the likelihood that you find something unique. If shopping on-line, I love Nordstrom for the ease of returns. I've been really liking a lot on the Mango website recently as there are several dressy options at an affordable price-point (and shipping is easy within Canada). Evernew, Club Monaco and Banana Republic are also worth checking out. The shop Kate Hewko from Calgary has some really fun, bold pieces. Not finding what you want on Canadian sites? Never Fully Dressed and Boden from the UK always seem to have great celebratory options. Eloquii is a gorgeous brand ranging is sizes 14-28. Need help sourcing out an outfit for an upcoming event? My virtual Month of Style could be the answer - I do all the legwork for you!