So, You Have to Dress Up Again—Here's Your Guidebook to Summer Occasions

Please don’t judge me for what I’m about to tell you: I loathe most casual clothing. I know that sounds dramatic, but considering I have yet to buy a pair of sweatpants, it’s not a far-cry statement. I’ve always preferred opting for functional yet unique pieces of clothing that keep me as far away from athleisure apparel as possible.

Don’t get me wrong—I’ll never judge anyone for loving leggings (you have to wear what you feel best in), but you’ll be hard-pressed to find me in a pair outside of yoga class. So you can then understand why after continuous quarantine measures, the idea of dressing up again for any special occasion speaks to me on a soul level. Of course, I know that not everyone has an affinity for feathers and platform heels as I do. I also know that the idea of dressing up for a summer wedding, packing for a honeymoon, or even going out with friends may be slightly anxiety-including for others. 

So, to help make the transition back into dressing up a little easier for everyone involved, I’ve tapped celebrity fashion stylist and designer Mickey Freeman for his tips on dressing up again. Ahead, he’s sharing what special occasion staples he swears by and the trends he’s most excited to see us reemerge in. Plus, I’ve rounded up a few outfit ideas for every special occasion and shopped out the key pieces you’ll need for each event. Consider this the reboot button that will allow you to get excited about dressing up again.

WHO: Mickey Freeman, celebrity fashion stylist, and designer represented by the Only Agency.

You’ve worked as a celebrity and editorial stylist for years. What do you love about what you do? 

Mickey Freeman: Styling and creative directing enable me to convey my view of the way the world should be, could be, or would be without burdening viewers and clients with the weight of reality. Also, I’ve always loved that my career has consistently presented new challenges and obstacles along the way. Eventually, learning to work around every mishap or wardrobe malfunction has acted as the paradigm shift to a more positive and proactive mindset. Evolution can be found in the shadows of uncertainty.

How has being a stylist informed how you approach getting dressed up for special occasions (both personally and for your clients)? 

MF: I’ve learned not to be so bound to how I perceive myself that I lose touch with that instinctual energy trying to push me out of my comfort zone. For my clients, it’s always crucial for me to understand what inspires them at the moment and how it can translate into their look and the overall imprint they want to leave on the event.

After a prolonged period of quarantining and not going out, this summer, many people around the world will be able to go out again.

What advice would you give them for getting all dressed up again?

MF: I fully understand the desire to return to a more active and extroverted lifestyle. I would encourage people to partake in previously unexplored color palettes. Mix and match pieces in your wardrobe that you don’t usually pair together, like leather knee boots and denim cutoffs. It’s time to enjoy life!

Are there any current trends you feel lend themselves well to being the ideal thing to re-emerge in? 

MF: For women, I adore the resurgence of sophisticated yet flirty one-pieces such as the jumpsuit or bodysuit that were found in fall/winter 2022 collections. I also love that many men wear reinterpreted pleated shirts and trousers, a look that I’m known for wearing.

Shop Freeman’s favorite trend:

What tip would you give our readers who want to follow a specific dress code but still want to show off their personal style? 

MF: The most impactful statement one could make while navigating within the confines of celebratory outfit ideas lie in paying attention to the details. It’s important to showcase your individuality through occasion-specific accessories, including hair and neck scarves, opera gloves, metallic waist belts, ruby and emerald earrings, diamond tennis bracelets, and pearl necklaces.

Shop Freeman’s dress code staples:

What’s one fail-proof outfit idea you swear by for a night out? 

MF: For special occasions such as a cocktail party or night out, choosing a classic option like a monochromatic knit top and pencil skirt or mid-length dress with interesting textures or ornate embellishments like feathers can make all the difference in the world. Other outfit ideas that are all the rave for many occasions include a body-con silk slip dress in the summer (velvet in the fall) and, of course, anything with sequins. 

Shop Freeman’s fail-proof going-out outfits:

Are there any staples you feel should be a part of any woman's wardrobe to be able to pull out for any form of a special occasion?

MF: I believe that every woman should, at some point, invest in at least one statement clutch for special occasions. This piece will always act as the icing on top, bringing an instant luxurious air to any look. Another classic staple is the platform sandal or platform boot. Platforms generally pick up where the bottom leaves off by further elongating the legs, which works perfectly for all body types. Also, platform shoes are a great alternative to high heels because they are usually more comfortable and easier to walk in.

Shop Freeman’s special occasion staples:

What final styling tip would you share with our readers for dressing for special occasions? 

MF: During special occasions, it is always important to decorate yourself by wearing garments with elaborate embroidery and luxe fabrics such as silk, sequin, beaded lace, features, and fringe tastefully. Be extra—it’s the occasion to celebrate.

More Styling Ideas for Special Occasions

Wedding season is upon us, and if you’re wondering what the easiest thing to wear is sans effort, look no further than the fit above. Opting for a silk or satin dress or a matching set paired with heels will keep you comfortable throughout the ceremony, and you’ll still look chic.

Shop the key pieces:

Planning what to wear to a more casual wedding (whether in a far-off destination, by the beach, or nearby) can be tricky. Our tip is to opt for a dress that feels a bit fancier. Think a maxi dress or something with unique adornments paired with casual heels.

Shop the key pieces:

Opt for a colorful dress or jumpsuit styled with heels for a baby shower or bridal shower this summer for an easy yet elegant look.

Shop the key pieces:

Ahh, cocktail parties—remember those? In case you forgot, these are all about opting for a formal dress but not a gown for the evening, But if you want to dial it up a notch, pick a minidress with fun details (think crystal fringe, feathers, or satin) paired with fun statement heels.

Shop the key pieces:

A black-tie dress code calls for you to embrace getting dressed up, so why not have your Cinderella moment? Wear a full-length gown with crystal-adorned accessories and enjoy yourself. You deserve it!

Shop the key pieces:

Maybe you’re planning a birthday party, going to a concert, or just planning to be out in the streets this summer. Whatever the case is, don’t be afraid to inject a little glitz and glamour into an evening out. You can pair a sequin top with relaxed trousers and heels.

Shop the key pieces:

There are so many occasions you can dress up for this summer, but possibly the most exciting one is the chance to dress up on vacation. After prolonged periods of quarantine, there’s nothing more exciting than being able to see the world again (while looking stylish, of course), so don’t be afraid to pack a few statement pieces for your trips like ruffled maxi-dresses or on-trend bikinis. Do this, and you’ll find that it can bring a little joy and sparkle into your life.

Shop the key pieces:

Next: 42 Stylish Dresses That Will Work for Any Upcoming Special Occasion