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Home>Be inspired>Dress codes for women

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1The shoes

A chic sandal

Longer dresses will benefit from a mid or high heeled shoe. Choose a style that complements your dress, we'd suggest a classic evening sandal style.

Shop evening and occasionwear shoes
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2The dress

A luxe look

For 'black tie' an evening gown or cocktail dress is appropriate for women; it doesn't have to be black and can be knee-length or long. Opt for luxe fabrics like chiffon, silk or velvet.

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3The bag

Compact & stylish

Black tie is often the suggested dress code for a formal dinner, dance, wedding or posh party. Go for a small pretty clutch or chain handled evening bag.

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1The accessory

Keep it elegant

Accessorise your dress with a luxurious stole or shawl and glittering jewellery. If you need help choosing accessories one of our personal shoppers can be a great help.

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2The dress

A glam gown

This is the most formal of dress codes reserved for the likes of royal ceremonies and charity balls. In these situations a ball gown or floor-length dress is expected.

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3The bag

Small and chic

Avoid carrying too much in your bag when at a big occasion and go for something neat and pretty. That way, the focus will be on you and your dress.

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1The shoes

Fun and flirty

Colour blocking is a fun look for this season and bright shoes look great with a coloured dress or simple black outfit.

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2The dress

Short and stylish

Less formal parties or dinners might suggest a cocktail dress code. For these occasions knee-length dresses are the norm and you can go shorter too.

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3The bag

A medium clutch

You can opt for a slightly larger bag with cocktail dresses as they're usually less formal than those for black or white tie. Costume jewellery will add the finishing touch.

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1The shoe

Smart and sophisticated

A court shoe would be suitable as would a smart pump or boot. If for a business event, opt for a classic and coordinating colour palette and simple accessories.

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2The dress

Classic elegance

A smart/casual code is commonly accepted for business social events, informal dinners and lunches where outfit expectations are far less rigid. Shift dresses, wrap dresses and jersey styles would all be appropriate.

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3The jacket

Fitted and flattering

Try accessorising with a fitted jacket to keep things looking smart. This look can take you from the office to evening with ease.

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1The shoes

Pretty but practical

When it comes to dress codes for the races, although they aren't always enforced, it's best to make an effort. Don't forget sensible shoes if you'll be walking about on the grass.

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2The dress

Statement chic

Skirt, suits or dresses with a coordinating jacket or cover up would be ideal for the races, or glam it up in a cocktail dress and cover up.

Shop all evening and party dresses
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3The accessory

Hat fascination

If you're off to Ladies Day at the likes of Ascot then a hat or statement fascinator is a must. You can go as big or small as you like depending on whether you wish to stand out.

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