As the invitations to various soirées, celebrations and garden parties start filling up my calendar, the excitement of attending these events is quickly accompanied by the inevitable dread of finding the perfect outfit. It's hardly the worst dilemma in the world, but it's one that often has me scouring my wardrobe in search of that elusive ensemble that hits all the right marks. Thankfully, I've found a fashion lifeline in NET-A-PORTER, which has become my go-to destination for all things event dressing.
When it comes to curating a showstopping look, NET-A-PORTER always delivers. With its carefully curated selection of luxury brands and on-trend pieces, I can always count on finding the ideal outfit to suit any occasion. Whether it’s a black-tie affair or a more casual cocktail party, the extensive range of designer dresses, statement separates and covetable accessories ensures I'll always hit the dress code.
Amongst the plethora of brands available at the luxury online retailer, there are five that always elevate my event wardrobe to new heights. For a touch of timeless elegance, I turn to the exquisite craftsmanship of Bernadette, whose luxurious fabrics and feminine silhouettes exude sophistication. Meanwhile, the bold glamour of 16Arlington's statement-making pieces adds a daring edge, perfect for turning heads at any event. When it comes to making a modern statement, I rely on the elegant allure of Taller Marmo's decadent designs and unique spin on tailoring—ideal for making a memorable entrance.
For a more relaxed, effortlessly chic vibe, Zimmermann's romantic floral dresses add a whimsical charm that makes them perfect for garden parties and brunches. Lastly, the ethereal style of Self-Portrait's intricate lace dresses and dreamy details never fail to captivate, and the brand has become my ultimate choice for weddings and special occasions.
Now that you're armed with insider knowledge of the best event-dressing brands at NET-A-PORTER, the hard part (picking your favourites) begins. From Zimmermann's floral wonders to Self-Portrait's lace showstoppers, below are the dresses from each brand I've already added to my wish list. Keep scrolling to dive into my selection.
Shop NET-A-PORTER’s Chicest Dress Brands:
1. Zimmermann
I'm envisioning this dress at an outdoor wedding on a summer evening.
Brunches have become so popular in my diary that I've run out of outfits to wear to them. This is my next buy.
A perfect wedding-guest dress if I ever did see one.
I'm going to have to find an event to wear this to—it's too exquisite.
Flowy, floral, colourful—it gets 10s across the board from me.
2. Bernadette
Can we take a moment for the colour?! It's giving Barbiecore.
Sometimes a black dress is all you need for an elegant evening affair…
… Whilst other times call for colour.
I love the relaxed silhouette of this one-shoulder linen dress, and it can be dressed up or down so easily.
The drop shoulder is all it took to add this to my wish list.
3. 16Arlington
Simple and classic.
We love a velvet moment at Who What Wear UK.
It's giving Angelina Jolie at the 2004 Oscars.
All you need are some silver heels and a clutch and you're good to go.
The peach shade drew me in but the feathers sold it to me.
4. Self-Portrait
This is all you could ask for in a wedding-guest dress.
Now this is how to make a fishnet dress look very chic.
Perfect for fancy alfresco lunches.
I can't wait to wear beautiful brights this summer.
Everything about this dress is adorable, from the lilac to the pleated chiffon and lightly puffed sleeves.
5. Taller Marmo
When it comes to event dressing, I want all the feathers, all the time.
I actually saved this to my Future Wedding Dress Ideas mood board.
She's the moment.
Taller Marmo always gets it right, and this kaftan dress is just another example.
A surefire way to make a statement.
