When it comes to dressing for weddings, race days and summer soirées, striking the perfect balance between polished and personal can feel like an art form. Luckily, Ellis Ranson – the fashion and celebrity stylist behind looks for everyone from Megan McKenna to Kate Ferdinand, Rio Ferdinand and Lucien Laviscount – has distilled it into seven essential rules.
Think of this as your ultimate cheat sheet for occasionwear that feels modern, effortless and unmistakably you.
1. Dress for the dress code – but make it yours
‘Dress codes offer guidance rather than restriction,’ says Ranson – and that mindset shift changes everything. Whether you’re navigating strict rules (think shoulder coverage at formal race events) or a more relaxed brief, the key is authenticity. If dresses aren’t your thing, opt for tailoring or a jumpsuit. Prefer darker tones? A chic all-black or deep navy look can feel just as elevated. The goal is balance: a classic base styled with personality – statement jewellery, unexpected accessories or playful footwear – to ensure your outfit feels current rather than costume-like.
2. Always check the setting
Before you even consider hemlines or hues, think location. A countryside wedding calls for softer palettes, floaty silhouettes and practical footwear (heels sinking into grass are never the vibe). Meanwhile, city venues open the door to sharper, more directional looks. Ranson’s golden rule? It’s better to be overdressed than underdressed – but always factor in practicality, like crease-resistant fabrics if you’ll be seated for long stretches.
3. Comfort is the new luxury
‘If you can't sit, walk, eat and dance in the outfit, then it is not working.’ This is where true style reveals itself. The most polished guests aren’t the ones in the tightest dresses or highest heels – they’re the ones who look completely at ease. Confidence, as Ranson puts it, comes from comfort. And nothing undermines a great outfit faster than constantly adjusting it.
4. Colour should feel intentional
Occasionwear is your invitation to experiment – but with purpose. Spring and summer naturally lend themselves to colour, but rather than chasing trends, focus on shades that genuinely suit you. Monochrome will always read polished, while colour blocking feels fresh and fashion-forward. If bold hues feel daunting, introduce them subtly – through accessories, tailoring details or even beauty choices like a statement lip.
5. Let accessories finish the look (not overwhelm it)
Accessories are transformative – but restraint is key. ‘If your outfit is bold, keep accessories more minimal,’ advises Ranson. The aim is cohesion, not competition. Shoes and bags don’t need to match perfectly – in fact, a slightly undone approach often feels more modern. One insider trick? When wearing prints, pull a secondary colour from the pattern for your accessories. It creates a considered look without feeling overly styled.
6. Fabric and fit matter more than you think
Lightweight, breathable fabrics – think silk blends, chiffon, linen and fine cotton – are essential for warm-weather events. But beyond fabric, fit is everything. Ranson recommends sizing up and tailoring down rather than squeezing into something too tight or settling for an ill-fitting piece. ‘A seamstress is your best friend,’ she notes – and it’s often the difference between an outfit that looks good and one that looks exceptional.
7. Balance proportions for a polished finish
Great styling is all about proportion. Voluminous skirts, dramatic sleeves or wide-leg trousers should be offset with something more fitted to create harmony. It’s less about following trends and more about understanding what works for your shape. The end result? An outfit that feels effortless, flattering and refined from head to toe.
