As summer approaches, my calendar is quickly filling up with an array of exciting events: black-tie weddings, garden parties, al fresco birthday celebrations… if it's a warm-weather event, my friends are throwing it. I've always adored dressing up for these summer soirées and this year, I'm seizing the opportunity to break free from my usual style. Normally, my event wardrobe is made up of timeless classics—think LBDs for formal affairs and pastel sundresses for outdoor gatherings. I still love these forever classics, but a recent browse through Harvey Nichols' varied event collection has made me reconsider pieces I'd usually overlook.
Harvey Nichols has always been one of my top shopping destinations thanks to its impeccably curated edits of both established brands and emerging contemporary-luxury names. As a fan of neutral tones, I usually stick to minimalist, monochromatic looks, so for black-tie events, I'd typically reach for a sleek black dress with understated jewellery. At garden parties, you'd find me in a flowy beige number paired with classic espadrilles.
However, I've since discovered vibrant and unique dresses by brands such as Zimmermann and 16Arlington and summer shoes from the likes of Toteme that have me excited to experiment a little. From floral prints to feathered trims, these pieces are just what I need to elevate any summer event wardrobe, and I'm ready to embrace the bold new me.
What I love most about this curation is that there are plenty of the classics as well as some cult-level pieces. Take for example Loewe's Dusty Blue Bracelet Pleated Leather Clutch (£1100)—sure, you can carry it with the top strap, but those in the know will tell you that you can also wrap the strap around your wrist (hence its name). When it comes to ready-to-wear, 16Arlington always hits the mark with cocktail-party attire for cool girls. Be it the '60s-inspired minidresses with XL collars or signature feather trims, or the choice of deep, moody hues, the brand is always a go-to for any editor attending a society sporting event like Wimbledon or Ascot.
For jewellery, you can't go wrong with a classic gold piece, but if you're looking to make a statement, might I point you in the direction of Alighieri? I've been eyeing up The Medusa Medallion 24kt Gold-Plated Necklace for a while now. These pieces would make excellent additions to any wardrobe, but their timelessness means they'll work year after year—a bonus, but an important one.
So, whether it's a dress, a pair of shoes or a clutch bag that you have on your radar, below, I've curated a selection of my favourites from the Harvey Nichols event edit. Keep scrolling for the pieces that won me over in an instant.
Shop Harvey Nichols' Chicest Summer Event Pieces:
1. Dresses
A stunning brocade dress that's perfect for a black-tie event. This silhouette is completely classic, too.
You can't go wrong with this Toteme dress for any outdoor event.
What's great about this Zimmermann dress is that it's easy to dress down as well as up. Of course, you can wear it with heels and a clutch, but don't rule it out for a long lunch date with some flat sandals and a raffia crossbody bag.
If you're looking for a twist on an LBD, how about a jumpsuit?
2. Shoes
Because you don't have to wear heels for special occasions, if you're going to do flats, make it these studded Mary Janes.
Everyone knows a wedge is the way to go when you're going to be on your feet all day (or on the dancefloor) but still need to look polished. For heeled wedges, Castañer is the best.
A pair of comfortable, black kitten heels is a summer essential. The suede material, low heel and simple straps make them lightweight too. These would be the perfect finishing touch to many an elegant outfit.
Nude heels are a classic in every wardrobe, and this suede-panelled pair add something a little different.
3. Bags
A very cute bag for a wedding. As a guest, but it also could work as your "something blue".
Totême's T-Lock clutch works year-round, so it only makes sense to add it to this list.
As the name suggests, this clutch is like a plush little cloud that fits all your essentials—and then some.
Stop! I think I've found the summer cross-body. A raffia bag is a timeless staple, but this one's darker hue and smaller size make it a little different from the others out there.
4. Jewellery
Let's all take a moment to appreciate the engraving on this gold-plated necklace.
Sometimes, it's the simple small adornments that make an entire look.
I'm a gold girlie all year round but this necklace may have just convinced me to enter my silver era. Imagine it worn with a silver dress—just perfection.
As I said, my silver era is beckoning me, and I'm lusting after this swivelled bangle next.
