A metallic bronze shift dress to shimmy the night away or a graphic print dress for a day at the races are just two of the versatile options for a season of multiple social gatherings.
These are good-time clothes, reinforced by the type of upbeat details that encourage a sense of fun. Think flamenco frills in silk (#1) or swinging off-the-shoulder ties that twist and shake when you do (#2) - because why not? It's an opportunity to have a bit of fun and encourage those around you to get into the festive spirit.
It's no surprise that some of our younger designers have explored that same sentiment with their youthful and energetic take on party dressing. The "Motel Off Shoulder" top (#2) by Georgia Alice, for example, works just as well with a matching pair of black cocktail pants as it does with a sleek pencil skirt for a fresh take on wearing black for a special occasion. The adjustable ties offer up a fun detail, and when accessorised with the type of gold costume jewellery poplularised in the 90s (now seeing a resurgence at several vintage stores), it's the perfect way to look polished in black and gold -evoking the perfect balance of luxury and a sense of occasion.
While it will be some time before the much-hackneyed 70s trend is on the wane, Gucci's artistic director, Michele Alessandro, has made a convincing case for baroque romanticism through a 70s lens. Think floaty maxi gowns with pussy bow details or delicate metallics and Lurex-inspired separates such as Liam's "Flicker" dress (#4). Worn with a pair of disco mules and devil-may-care attitude, it's the perfect way to celebrate in style.
1. Eugenie silk wrap top $395 and matching wrap skirt $465. Topshop heels $110. Swarovski crystal cuff $289.
2. Georgia Alice top $349 and flared pants $439. Vintage Christian Dior cuff, $1890, and vintage Fendi hoop earrings $499 both from Love & Object. Mi Piaci heels $240.
3. Karen Walker dress $450. Topshop lace-up flats $110 and necklace $28.
4. Liam metallic shirt dress $169, bandeau top and bottoms $90 a set. Yvonne Bennetti mules $595. Bangles, $5 each, from The Third Eye. Topshop fringed hoop earrings $24.
5. Camilla & Marc dress $880. Dolce & Gabbana aviator sunglasses $680, from Sunglass Hut. Topshop heels $110.
Stockists
• Camilla & Marc
• Eugenie (09) 557 8608
• Georgia Alice
• Karen Walker
• Liam (09) 522 6658
• Love & Object
• Mi Piaci
• The Third Eye (09) 379 8739
• Sunglass Hut 09-379 0730
• Swarovski (09) 379 0490
• Topshop 0508 867 7467
• The Third Eye (09) 379 8739
• Yvonne Bennetti (09) 361 2388