Half the fun of any event is getting dressed in your finest. I love the chance to elevate everyday looks and have fun with what I’m wearing. If you’re anything like me, the allure of Alert Level 1 will have you daydreaming about the opportunity to dress up and dance the night away. Weddings, black-tie events, gigs, parties – come at me. This week’s gallery is an ode to bright-coloured, happy party wear. Park your muted tones or monochrome and embrace citrus hues, rich magentas and standout prints and embellishments.
Kate Sylvester Iris dress, $659
Gold star for consistency, a Kate Sylvester party dress just can’t be beaten. Always in the most beautiful colours and fabrics, cut in classic shapes, and not trend focused – all factors that will allow you to keep this special dress in your wardrobe for many years to come. Shop
Gregory Ash dress, $599
I love the versatility and ease of a long, voluminous dress worn on its own with a statement earring or shoe or cinched at the waist with a belt. Here’s something for the adventurous to try: I like to tuck the front of my bright, long dresses into the waist of a favourite pair of jeans and then let the back hang loose, cascading behind me for a more dressed-down look. Orange represents enthusiasm, vitality, happiness and creativity and is just what the doctor ordered for a return to the party circuit after six months spent in our bubbles. Shop
Saint Laurent Loulou sunglasses from Sisters & Co, $630
Heart-shaped glasses to look at the future through rose-tinted lenses? Take my money. Disclaimer: these don’t actually contain rose-tinted lenses, but I have a hunch these whimsical numbers would bring a smile to any event or party. Fashion is meant to be fun and these don’t disappoint. Shop
Kathryn Wilson Blackford slide, $269
I’m completely in love with this luxe velvet, gold and pearl combination. Available in four colourways in navy, black or blush, but my pick is the punchy magenta. The embellished flat is an essential acquisition for anyone a little rusty on the high heels and wanting to dance the night away. Pre-order
Georgia Jay Baby Ombra in pear, $370
This little cutie is a local it girl go-to and can be spotted regularly after dark at Auckland’s nightlife hotspots. Designed intentionally to carry only the essentials, it is perfect for a night on the tiles. Jump on board the tiny-bag trend while supporting a local maker. Team with one of Georgia’s Bean Flip wallets in butter. Shop
Tanya Carlson St Clair pant in kowhai, $329
Here’s a public service announcement for those with legs eleven: These drapey, wide-leg pants cut in easy-care viscose will draw the eye in sunny kowhai. Team them with something simple and white on top and add a bright contrasting colour via bag, sunglasses, shoes or jewellery. Shop
Strangely Normal Molokai shirt, $179
No one does party shirts like iconic Auckland menswear label Strangely Normal. Specialising in 50s- and 60s-inspired pieces, it designs, cuts and constructs them, mainly in short runs, in its Avondale, Auckland, workroom. This short-sleeved shirt is made from Japanese cotton in an authentic Hawaiian print. Aloha! Take me to the Tiki Bar! Shop
Crane Brothers wool, linen and silk blazer, POA
New Zealand men have slowly become more adventurous over the past decade and our favourite menswear designer collections have reflected this. I’m picturing this salmon blazer over a crisp white shirt, paired with mid-blue denim and an oatmeal loafer. Allow 25 days, as this piece is custom-made and fitted. Enquire
Workshop crewneck jumper in orange, $198
Light up any event in this happy-go-lucky Aotearoa jumper, but it’s especially good for the trans-seasonal BBQ soiree. I would love to see this paired with a khaki-green chino and box-fresh simple white trainers. Shop
Eton silk pocket square from Fifth Avenue Menswear, $130
A pocket square is an easy way to be adventurous with colour and add flair to an outfit. I love anything in a fuchsia or citrus at the moment as it feels fresh and celebrational. A beautiful pocket square will elevate your shirt-and-jacket combination, and try adding a contrasting sock in another bright hue for a hidden colour explosion. Shop
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