I'm going to an engagement party with the dress code "fancy" next month, and it occurred to me that I’m not entirely sure what I want to wear yet.
I’ve known for a while that my closet is a bit lacking in one key category: fancy dresses. Ironically, the majority of my closet is dresses and skirts, but when it comes to fancier ones, I usually rely on renting through the app Pickle. It’s been perfect so far, but with an early November celebration and holiday gatherings coming up, I'd like to have a wider collection of my own.
If you’re in a similar position, my advice is to look at brands like Paloma Wool, Réalisation, Reformation, Rixo, and St. Agni as a starting point, plus the edits at Nordstrom (the Space section specifically), Net-a-Porter, Revolve, Saks Fifth Avenue, and Ssense. And if all else fails? A black silk dress is always reliable.
As I’ve been bookmarking every option that’s caught my eye while researching, here are the standouts.
My dream Fait Par Foutch dress.
Rixo has so many.
This Paolina Russo dress is incredible.
This Vivienne Westwood dress has been on my wish list for ages.
Check Guizio, too.
A staple silk halter from Silk Laundry.
I recommend looking at all of Emily Dawn Long's dresses.
Worn with red tights and strappy black heels, as styled above.
This Aaron Esh dress is stunning.
Navy always feels elevated.
So cute.
I rented Reformation's Casette Silk Maxi Dress for a wedding once and got so many compliments.
With sheer black tights and Manolos.
I love this color.
Nia is worth taking a look at.
This dress from Peachy Den is selling out.
An off-the-shoulder nylon mini.
In the shade Fiery Coral.
I'm obsessed with the Bow Detail Silk Satin Dress by Simone Rocha.
Timeless.
This color is definitely out of my comfort zone, but I'm kind of feeling this teal.
If you're a minimalist dresser, you'll love the brand Rue Sophie.
I'm envisioning this worn with festive tights.
The tie details on this ACNE dress make it a little more interesting.
If you're a soft autumn (like me), this dusty rose hue would look good on you.
SIR makes high-quality pieces.
For a billowy silhouette, this midi with a square neck and high empire waist.
I like the shape of this.
For a holiday party.
I'm such a fan of St. Agni.
Siedrés is a Turkish brand to know.
Another option from Nia.