Effortless event dressing

During event season I always get excited about dressing up and have visions of finding the perfect statement dress to wear to the various events which are pretty much mandatory at this time of year: the office Christmas party, your partner's Christmas party, Christmas drinks with the girls, Christmas feasts, new years eve and not to mention an occasional wedding, baby shower and other life celebrations thrown in there.

Each year though, I never actually follow through with my aspiration of finding the perfect party dress and instead end up going for something understated and practical and a lot of the time, something I already own. I now realise this is because my excitement for new season styles with gorgeous ruffles, bold patterns or feature details slowly gets zapped by my need for practicality and versatility. I have the best time when I feel elegant but mainly when I look effortless

This time of year can be so overwhelming so who can blame me for trying to keep things simple (am I right?) Plus it's no secret I love understated elegance and always feel my best when I feel effortless and comfortable. 

Here are my top 3 picks for effortless event dressing.


The work dress

Do you already own a work dress at home you can dress up? Chances are you probably do! Otherwise any work dress can be a great investment to style up for the perfect event look and to add to your 9-5 wardrobe.

If you are looking to dress up a work dress make sure you either pick a bold colour or a style that isn't too corporate. Avoid greys, houndstooth, checks, plaid and plain square or rounded necklines. This forcast dress is the perfect pick because its very classic but its point of different is its bold colour.

Its low neck line which is quite flattering for any body shape is great for evening yet high enough to be able to wear it for work. 

Stylist tip: Take this look next level with a smokey eye and a mettalic clutch.

Dress from forcast

The jump suit

This forcast jump suit is another great find. It is a little edgy and has some attitude but still very versatile and could easily be dressed down with a pair of nude sandals and a straw boater.

Don't be scared off by the wide leg ankle length. I find this style suits most body shapes especially with its cinched in waist and arm detail which is perfect for anyone who doesn't like to expose their arms to much.

Stylist tip: Consider cutting leg length to the knee length to elongate and might be a better proportion for some. I cinches in at the waist and the arm detail definitley make this style 

Jump suit from forcast

The playsuit

The playsuit has quickly become a summer staple. It is so practical and easy to wear and a perfect alternative to wearing a dress. This style would be great for a Christmas party that starts during the day and goes well into the night as you won't feel too dressed up for an afternoon but still dressed up enough for the evening. 

Stylist tip: To pull of a playsuit for a special occasion heels are a must! And don't forget to add some statement jewellery for a touch of elegance.

What's your event style? Do you go OTT or keep it simple?

SP xox
@sofiapolak

Photography by @wearefoundau
Muses: @bronwenstead, @wearefoundau, @sofiapolak

This post is in collaboration with Canberra Outlet Centre. If you would like to collaborate with us contact stylists@thefashionvault.com.au