When you have an important function coming up, knowing what to wear can feel almost impossible. The temptation to splash out on a new designer fit can be strong, but what about those beautiful, nearly new outfits you wore earlier in the season?
Looking and feeling beautiful at special events doesn’t need to involve buying a new outfit every time. With a little bit of time, effort and creativity, you can re-imagine your favourite fits and make a strong impression. Here’s how.
Start with what you already own
If you’re in the planning stage, now is the perfect time to audit your wardrobe and rediscover your favourites. If you had some special occasions last year, it’s possible that you might rediscover pieces you’ve only ever worn once!
It’s estimated that across the UK, our wardrobes hold up to 1.6 billion items of unworn clothing. As more people head to the high street with every new trend, it’s easy to see why older styles start gathering dust. But it doesn’t need to be this way – and there’s plenty of hidden potential in your wardrobe.
Restyle with accessories and layers
Once you’ve found a dress, jumpsuit or two-piece that suits the occasion, you can start making little changes for a big impact.
Swapping out jewellery, belts, and scarves can help make the piece feel like something new entirely. If you have a huge collection of shoes, it’s worth trying on all your different pairs with the outfit. Simply adding new colours or heights could completely transform the outfit. 
Layering tops and jackets can also be hugely effective in changing the overall look. You can seamlessly create a shift from evening to daytime with small, accessory-focused changes. Think necklaces, faux fur jackets, and handbags.
Mix formal and casual pieces
Explore styling contrasts to breathe new life into an older outfit. We love formal skirts with chunky knits, especially through the autumn and winter months – and you’ll appreciate an extra bit of warmth too.
If jeans suit the occasion, why not pair your favourites with a gorgeous silk blouse? Dresses with trainers can also work well in summer, but we would recommend wearing smarter shoes if it’s a formal gathering. Don’t forget that even if you’ve splashed out on a gorgeous and trendy wedding guest dress, you can still tone it down for casual wear afterwards.
Consider tailoring and alterations
Fit revival is always possible. If you want to wear an older piece but it’s shrunk or doesn’t seem to fit anymore, you can still bring it back to life.
Consider asking your local seamstress for small changes like shortening a hem or perhaps altering sleeves to refresh a piece. You can always get sleeves and trouser legs shortened to adjust the fit too. Choosing repair and upcycling is a much more sustainable approach to fashion than buying new every time.
Explore rental, swapping and resale
Finally, don’t forget that there are plenty of supplementary strategies if nothing else will work at home. Renting a dress or swapping formal occasion wear with a friend can expand your wardrobe options without overspending.
Furthermore, the growth of the UK’s resale and rental markets makes it easier to embrace circular fashion. With apps like Vinted and Depop just a few taps away, you could order your dream dress for much less. Happy second-hand shopping!
