Fashion

What to wear to an evening wedding reception this summer

Prepare to dance the night away.
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It's that time of year again — we are talking, of course, about Wedding Season. From late spring to early autumn, it can feel like everyone you know is tying the knot. Whether you're jetting off for a few destination weddings, heading to the countryside for a bohemian garden wedding or you're city-bound for a stylish urban wedding, chances are, your fridge is filling up with flower-embossed invites for the months ahead.

The big question is, as always, what to wear. While you may have some cute little sundresses that are perfect for that afternoon outdoor ceremony, things get a little trickier when you get an invite to an evening-only celebration in the summer. The secret is to find the perfect cocktail attire and that is just elevated enough without being too showy.

Naturally, we've got you covered with some styling ideas for that evening wedding invite.

A classic LBD

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It's a classic for a reason. Sometimes, nothing is more chic, more timeless, more show-stopping than the effortless little black dress. Commit to the moment by styling your favourite LBD with all-black accessories — a pair of strappy heels, a classic little black clutch and even a swipe of black cate eyeliner can add even more drama to the look without being over powering. Finish it off with a few simple touches of silver or gold jewellery.

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Rotate Floral draped jacquard minidress

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Elise Leather Strappy Stiletto Sandals in Black

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Teardrop Cuff Bracelet

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Renata Bow Clutch Bag

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A cowl neck jumpsuit

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The ‘70s called. No one really did party vibes quite like the ’70s, so lean into some Saturday Night Fever vibes with an elevated wide leg cowl neck jumpsuit. The more sparkle, the better. Try styling a silver sequin jumpsuit with all metallic silver accessories for a look that screams “I am so ready for the dance floor.”

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Women’s Jumpsuit with Halter Neckline and Textured Surface

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Maeve Pointed Toe Strappy Heels

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The Ralph Small Floral Shoulder Bag

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Long Flower Stud Earrings

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Romantic, dark red florals

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Weddings are all about celebrating love — so lean into the romance with a soft, floral moment. Instead of a bright pastel floral number, opt for some deep, dark reds or purples for your evening invites. This maroon dress with red floral embroidery is a summery, romantic option that will take you smoothly into the wee hours. Dress it up with all-gold accessories.

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Frankie Dress

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Elongated Drop Earrings

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Metallic Twist Knot Platform Heels Gold

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Dragon Diffusion Rosanna woven leather shoulder bag

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A jewel tone halter gown

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Sumptuous jewel tones are perfect for the evening. Just take this flowing deep teal halter gown. Let the colour and material do all the talking and select a few dramatic accessories to complete the look.

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Petrol silk satin Isabella gown

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Metal fringed sun earrings

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Laminated strappy high-heel sandals

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Rosa Beaded Clutch Bag in Gold

Silk and a blazer

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A simple silk dress with an oversized black blazer is the ideal evening wedding outfit formula. It screams “I got chilly and borrowed this big blazer” in the best possible way. Try matching your dress to your shoes and complement your black blazer moment with a matching bag for an effortlessly pulled together final look.

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Burgundy Satin Allura Midi Dress

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Petunia Heeled Sandal

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Black Suede Pouch Clutch Bag

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A silk avant garde two-piece

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For a real statement-making, modern look, ditch your tired sundresses and cocktail dresses for a pure silk matching two-piece or jumpsuit. Opt for perfect tailoring and high quality materials for a look that is sophisticated, purposeful and powerful.

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Farah Satin Cape-Sash Jumpsuit in Teal Green

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Appliqué handbag

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Leena Leather Slingback Court Shoes in Black

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Faux pearl hoop earrings

A simple floor-length gown

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A classic strappy gown will always look great. For evening weddings, you can get away with going a touch more formal, making it the perfect time to give that floor-length gown in your closet (or in your shopping basket) a night out.

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ZAC POSEN Lace-trimmed pleated chiffon gown

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Cecilia Rose Clutch Bag

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Long Flower Stud Earrings

A romantic slip dress

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A lace-trimmed slip dress is peak romance — and this is a wedding, after all! This is a flowy, comfy option that is bohemian, ethereal and, quite simply, so pretty. Dress up your slip dress with boho accessories and lots of jewellery and a strong lip shade to avoid looking like you're wearing a full-on nightgown.

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DÔEN Obelia corded lace-trimmed silk-satin midi dress

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Pearlescent detail handbag

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Dolce Vita Ysabel Satin Heels

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