I’m sure that some of you will be going to weddings or other smart events this summer and so I want this post to serve as a reminder that a suitable outfit can come in many forms. Obviously certain weddings will call for a more formal dress code than others but even with this in mind, I think that it’s really important to ask yourself “what will I feel most myself in and most comfortable in? If you’re someone who always wears trousers, maybe a pair of beautiful palazzo pants, rather than a skirt, would make you feel great. Or would a trouser suit be a lovely alternative to a dress? Maybe you already have a dress that you love but think of as a day dress - could you add statement jewellery or find a great jacket to smarten it up? Obviously heels make a big difference too. If you don’t wear heels often then wedges are a good option. A pair like these are very cool.

If you are going to buy something new, then it’s nice to think about how you might wear the outfit again. I particularly like a two-piece as usually the component parts can be worn in a more casual way. Take mum’s outfit for example. The jacket would look fantastic with a crisp white shirt and blue jeans. The skirt with a t-shirt and flip flops on holiday would look stunning. It’s dark enough that you could wear it with a polo neck jumper, tights and boots in the shoulder months too.

Think about how to optimise colour. A guest at our wedding wore a red jumpsuit and they looked absolutely stunning. The jumpsuit itself was simple but the colour was show stopping. Maybe just by pairing two striking colours together, you could create an outfit worthy of a wedding - and there is a chance that they’re already in your wardrobe!

The two-piece that I am wearing here is so pretty. The colours and embroidery are beautiful. I liked the matching shirt and skirt together but either item could be paired with another - maybe more colourful - piece. A hot pink skirt with the top would look fabulous and would make quite the statement! The skirt would look great with an emerald green jacket.

Do think about the accessories too. I know I have said this many times before but jewellery is such a good outfit elevator. This is a simple linen dress but pair it with a pair of earrings like these and you have yourself a pretty striking outfit…. Also, big chunky beaded necklaces are back in vogue. A necklace like this or this would be a good jumping off point for a great outfit.

And don’t forget to think about your sunglasses! Many parties are outdoors in the summer so you’ll find yourself reaching for the sunnies - don’t let them ruin the look! Accentuate the overall vibe with a great pair. Mum’s classic Wayfarer style finish her look off nicely. My outfit could take something more dramatic like a bright red cat-eye style. Have fun with it!

I know that one or two of you will be mother-of-the-bride this year. I definitely think that mum’s outfit here would be a fab option. Building the outfit around a jacket can be a good strategy. If the jacket is patterned, pick up one of the colours in the pattern and pair with a simple dress or skirt. If you’re going to wear a hat/head piece then picking a showstopper and making that the centre piece of your outfit is also a lovely choice. Alexandra Harper has some wonderful options, Tara at To’Ca also takes commissions - check out her instagram.

For the Style Edit this week I have compiled some ideas for summer event outfits - from more relaxed to very smart options. I hope that it will spark some inspiration for outfits that you can put together from your own wardobe, and should you be wanting to buy something new, ideas for interesting brands to explore. I’d love to hear from you in the comments below should you be going to something special this year! Hx