Quick, pass us the fake tan: Lady Wimbledon’s Tennis Party is fast approaching! With the excitement building in SW19, everyone is on the hunt for the perfect all-white outfit, and there’s one question on everyone’s mind: “How can I stand out from the crowd when everybody looks the same?” Style Editors Hel and Mel have all the answers…
There are many different ways to wear white that feel creative and fresh (and not too bridal), so here are a few ideas to ensure that both you – and your outfit – stand out in a summery sea of white.
1. Get creative with colour
Just because it’s a white party doesn’t mean you have to be head to toe in white: a mostly white or pale dress with a scattering of pretty flowers or on-trend polka dots will instantly draw attention while adhering to the dress code. Keep it on-message with neutral or low-key accessories.
Midsummer Ditsy Gown, £375, Needle & Thread
Agyness Polka-Dot Cotton Tiered Maxi Dress, £306, Rixo
2. Add shine with metallic finishes
A silvery metallic dress is a perfect alternative to white, whilst still adhering to the “light” dress code. Satiny slip dresses channel fashion’s 90s-loving mood; sequins and fringing lend drama and fun.
Vince Bias Slip Dress in Silver, £290, Trilogy
ASOS Edition Sequin Fringe Cutout Mini Dress, £150, asos.com
3. Be bold and get textural
Now is your chance to push the boundaries! Think big ruffles or bows, all-over lace or broderie anglaise, extravagant sleeves or fluffy feathers – this summer’s fashion is all about unusual silhouettes. Separates are an easy way to dip your toe into this look and will have a longer life after the event.
Extreme Frill Peplum Hem Scuba Midi Dress, £65, Lavish Alice
Tiered Tulle Skirt, £60, Chi Chi London at ASOS
Medeleine Dress, £458, Bronx and Banco at Revolve.com
4. Beyond the ‘dress’ code
Newsflash: you don’t have to wear a dress! There are so many other options to consider: white playsuits, shorts and tops, pyjama sets, an oversized blazer, wide-leg trousers and a camisole top… Just pay close attention to creating a sleek silhouette to ensure a sophisticated appearance; tone-matching is also your secret weapon here.
Tuxe Playsuit in Ivory, £65, Michelle Keegan at Very.co.uk
Embellished trousers, £85; embellished jacket, £100, both ASOS Edition; double-layer camisole, £12, ASOS Design at asos.com
6. Splash out on a pop of primary colour
An effective and eye-catching way to uplift a monochrome outfit is to add a contrasting piece – such as a belt or statement necklace – in a bright, bold colour: yellow, green and red are our go-to favourites this summer.
Red patent belt, £45, Valentino at asos.com
The C mini leather clutch bag, £980, Chloé at MatchesFashion.com
7. Accessorise, accessorise, accessorise!
Finally, complete your ensemble with block heels or strappy sandals, jewellery and a chic clutch. Accessories can also update pieces you already have in your wardrobe: headbands are a great way to snazz up an all-white outfit, and are still a big trend for S/S 19.
Jamima Headband, £34, Anthropologie
From left, shot at H&M: Hel wears long, circular skirt, £20; lace body, £17.99; Mel wears: wide-leg trousers, £34.99; cropped top with bow, £19.99, all H&M.
And remember: the golden rule of dressing for any party is to create an aesthetic that best suits you. When you are happy with your look, confidence shines through brighter than any white. So (and what better example to follow than that of Lady Wimbledon herself, below): just be you and sparkle!
Hel & Mel xx
Book tickets for Lady Wimbledon’s legendary Wimbledon Tennis Party at Hotel du Vin, Wimbledon on 19th June here >
Written By: Hel and Mel | Style Editors
Instagram: @HelandMel
Twitter: @Hel_and_Mel
Facebook: @HelandMel
About The Author
Hel and Mel
Fun-loving influencers Hel and Mel can spot a trend at 50 paces – sharing style tips and what-to-wear advice on Instagram, they're our go-to girls for all things fashion.