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
ZIMMERMANN
+ Net Sustain Natura Floral-Print Crepe De Chine Maxi Dress
I’m envisioning this dress at an outdoor wedding on a summer evening.
ZIMMERMANN
Belted Pleated Printed Chiffon Midi Dress in Light Blue
Brunches have become so popular in my diary that I’ve run out of outfits to wear to them. This is my next buy.
ZIMMERMANN
Matchmaker Belted Floral-Print Linen and Silk-Blend Midi Dress
A perfect wedding-guest dress if I ever did see one.
ZIMMERMANN
Natura Cold-Shoulder Tiered Silk-Organza Top
I’m going to have to find an event to wear this to—it’s too exquisite.
ZIMMERMANN
+ Net Sustain August Ruffled Tiered Gathered Floral-Print Crepon Mini Dress
Flowy, floral, colourful—it gets 10s across the board from me.
2. Bernadette
BERNADETTE
Adrian One-Shoulder Bow-Detailed Crepe and Taffeta Gown in Pink
Can we take a moment for the colour?! It’s giving Barbiecore.
BERNADETTE
Bobby Gathered Taffeta Maxi Dress
Sometimes a black dress is all you need for an elegant evening affair…
BERNADETTE
Nathalie One-Shoulder Linen Dress
I love the relaxed silhouette of this one-shoulder linen dress, and it can be dressed up or down so easily.
BERNADETTE
Benedicte One-Shoulder Bow-Embellished Stretch-Crepe Mini Dress
The drop shoulder is all it took to add this to my wish list.
3. 16Arlington
16ARLINGTON
Adelaide One-Shoulder Feather-Trimmed Crushed-Velvet Midi Dress in Teal
We love a velvet moment at Who What Wear UK.
16ARLINGTON
Salina Gathered Satin Halterneck Gown in Silver
It’s giving Angelina Jolie at the 2004 Oscars.
16ARLINGTON
Sola Cutout Sequined Stretch-Tulle Halterneck Midi Dress
All you need are some silver heels and a clutch and you’re good to go.
16ARLINGTON
Cindy Feather-Trimmed Sequined Tulle Mini Dress
The peach shade drew me in but the feathers sold it to me.
4. Self-Portrait
SELF-PORTRAIT
Crystal-Embellished Fishnet Gown
Now this is how to make a fishnet dress look very chic.
SELF-PORTRAIT
Belted Crystal-Embellished Bouclé and Pleated Crepe Midi Dress
Perfect for fancy alfresco lunches.
SELF-PORTRAIT
Tiered Pleated Floral-Print Chiffon Midi Dress
Everything about this dress is adorable, from the lilac to the pleated chiffon and lightly puffed sleeves.
5. Taller Marmo
TALLER MARMO
Ubud Extravaganza Feather-Trimmed Crepe Midi Dress
When it comes to event dressing, I want all the feathers, all the time.