prairie girl musings

Category: Fashion

8 Wedding Guest Outfit Ideas For 2020

Recently, I’ve had a few requests for a round-up of wedding guest outfit ideas (such a mouthful…) The past few years have been consumed by weddings for Nick and I. We’re now at that age where everyone we know is getting married and have attended upwards of 5-6 weddings per year. Not that I’m complaining, ya girl loves weddings and celebrations of all kinds. If you’re looking for versatile outfits that can transition to different seasons and suit various venues, read on. Disclaimer: The following options are all dresses I’d wear myself and I understand they are quite feminine and not to every women’s taste or style.

Repeating outfits is absolutely acceptable, necessary even, in my books given our current climate crisis and crazy levels of consumerism. That said, if you’re looking for a one-off piece for a special occasion, (maybe you’re a bridesmaid or the occasion calls for black tie…) I’d highly recommend renting an outfit. I work with Designer Wardrobe here in New Zealand and I love picking out dresses that are a bit more exciting than my usual (often boring) every day uniform. You should see my watch list, it’s three pages long. If hiring isn’t an option or you’d prefer to invest in a beautifully-made, high quality, and versatile piece, these are a few of my favourite looks:

1. AJE Overture Blouson Midi Dress

Cool, calm and collected, this shade of blue is relaxed enough for a beachside wedding, but can be dressed up to suit any occasion. It’s made of linen and silk, which means it’s both breathable and understated. The price point is high, but I think it’s one of those dresses you’d reach for in many different situations (especially if you live in Australasia).

2. Shona Joy Desi Plunged Ruffle Mini Dress

It’s true, mini dresses are back on the scene for 2020 and I’m in love with this minty number by Shona Joy. It’s got the wow factor while remaining perfectly pastel for more formal occasions. I think it’d fit a restaurant wedding as much as a winery wedding.

3. Shona Joy La Lune Flutter Midi Dress

If you’re a more casual bride, this dress would be perfect. It could also work as a bridesmaid dress, if you’re into the white/neutral trend for your maids. It also comes in champagne, sage and blush – all gorgeous. Either way, I’m all for a silk midi dress.

4. Aritzia Rosalyn Dress

Winter weddings are sometimes a thing, so having one or two long sleeve dresses is an absolute must. I’m also in love with Aritzia’s wrap dresses for summer. They’re perfect for more casual settings.

5. Bec & Bridge Fleurette Off-Shoulder Dress

100% cotton, this dress is my pick for more casual beach or barn summer weddings. If you’re in a place like New Zealand or Australia, you’re probably looking for something a bit more low-key and I think this dress is a wonderful option.

6. ASOS Several options

If you’re a curvier gal, I highly recommend checking out the gorgeous curve range at ASOS. They’ve got heaps of beautiful options including this nude number. I’m also in love with this Vero Moda sage dress and this smock dress in periwinkle blue.

7. The Iconic Delilah Dress

This dress is trans-seasonal, flattering and makes a statement. Wrap dresses work well on so many different shapes and sizes and this versatile dress is one you could dress up and down. Pair it with boots and a trench coat for weekend errands and lunch.

8. Reformation Winslow Dress and Farrow Dress

As I mentioned above, Reformation is my go-to for tops and dresses. They offer up heaps of information regarding their carbon footprint, where fabric is sourced from and garments are made. I think this level of transparency needs to become the norm among fashion retailers and I seriously applaud their efforts. I’m not so secretly eyeing up the dress on the right for my sister’s wedding…

Whatever you wear, it’s ultimately about feeling comfortable and confident. Remember, casual dresses can be styled to look more formal. Dressing for the venue is also a key factor to consider. I like to do a bit of research before each wedding I attend; looking at the venue and thinking about the couple’s own style to make sure my outfit is appropriate.

I didn’t wear either of these dresses to weddings, but both are fun, girly options depending on the venue and the couple in question.

February 12, 2020
NZFW 2018 Diary

Although I was planning on taking it easy this year at New Zealand Fashion Week, that’s not exactly how things played out…

I’ve attended the past three NZFWs, as well as a few overseas in Sydney and Toronto. But this was the first year I’ve been self-employed and haven’t had to take time off work! Despite my best intentions to only take in a few shows (to save myself from burning out), I managed to pack in four pretty full days and a lot of my other work fell by the wayside. Since I saw most of the shows, I thought I’d share a round-up of the week and my favourite moments with photos by my friend, Robyn at Anywhere I Roam.

Most impressive show…
Trelise Cooper‘s fashion week shows are always incredible, but this year really blew me out of the water. Full of colour and sass, the collection featured 70s and 80s style dresses, brocade and lots of sequin party-wear and even an electric blue pantsuit. Set to the tunes of flamboyant musical entertainers, I couldn’t resist dancing along in my seat. My favourite look was the mermaid pleated skirt that shimmered as the model walked down the catwalk. I attended this show with my bestie, Annie and we seriously had the best night out!

Coolest atmosphere…
Stolen Girlfriends Club always put on amazing shows. This year’s was held at the Red Bull HQ in Ponsonby and the atmosphere was just as cool as you’d imagine. With an open bar and cocktails flowing, attendees socialised and sipped on Stolen-themed drinks and Asahi beer before the 9PM show kicked off. The collection itself was a bit badass with plenty of leather, my personal favourite was the lilac leather coat. The finale featured models dragging glow-in-the-dark rubbish bins, commentary on the wastefulness of fast fashion, perhaps?

Most inventive showcase…
I knew I’d love Hej Hej‘s show even before the invites rolled in. New on the scene, Hej Hej is quickly becoming known for light-weight linens and comfy knits that pair so perfectly together for New Zealand’s haphazard weather. Their show was on a yacht, gin cocktails were flowing and the sun was out just in time for the 4PM start. Their latest collection, Cruise Control is full of pared back, loose fitting linen staples that you’ll reach for all summer long.

Overall favourite show…
The Twenty Seven Names show kicked off with the Auckland Girls Grammar choir singing Rihanna’s Diamonds, setting the tone for an amazing show. This Wellington brand can do no wrong in my eyes, their clothes use wearable (often recycled) materials in the most fun prints and cuts. This collection was particularly colourful, with canary yellow coats, pink shift dresses and emerald green blazers. Taking place at Showroom 22’s light-filled studio, the show was intimate and the music was incredible — favourite 90s tunes in all their glory.

What I wore…
I decided to opt for comfort this year because I knew I’d be running around like crazy, catching Ubers, meeting with clients, and tapping away on my laptop between shows. I borrowed quite a few outfits from my favourite brands Leo + Be and RUBY to name a few and packed my favourite pieces from Kiwi designers like Twenty Seven Names and Hej Hej. I handpicked a Witchery blazer from my friends at Undertow Media and next thing I know, I’m seeing the same shade at the three next shows… I’m pretty thrilled to see colour come back in.

Where I stayed…
The Grand Mercure in Auckland is perfectly situated for a week of fashion-filled festivities. I checked in on Monday and never wanted to leave. The amenities include a virtual fitness room, a pillow menu, delicious room service, and TV by the bath — if only I’d had time to fully enjoy it all. The level of service is incredible and I’ll definitely be booking another night’s stay here very soon!

Check out my vlog to see a hotel room tour.

Final words…
For me, NZFW is about so much more than just clothing. It’s a chance to catch up with friends (I’m looking at you, Robyn), meet new faces and get inspired. The creativity of New Zealand designers never ceases to amaze me and I love seeing how they embrace the ever-changing industry. Fashion needs to be more sustainable and considered and many Kiwi designers are taking a step back, creating smaller capsule collections that will stand the test of time. I always leave feeling excited (and exhausted) and ready to create new content.

All photography by Robyn Joan Wilson of Anywhere I Roam

September 2, 2018
The Summertime Skirt

It’s not quite spring in New Zealand, but today has been unseasonably warm (16 degrees!) and I’ve been dying to wear this skirt since picking it up in LA.

It’s from Reformation, one of my all-time favourite brands. All their pieces are made from super sustainable materials like rescued deadstock fabrics and repurposed vintage clothing. As they evolve, their aim is to continue creating more sustainable fabric options, challenging the current state of the fashion industry.

Their Melrose Avenue store in Los Angeles is amazing. As you wander around, eyeing up potential purchases, employees note down your faves and have them delivered to you. You can request new items and sizes using an iPad in the fitting room and your items will magically appear in your closet a few seconds later. Then, you can purchase your faves from the confines of your room. It’s the future!

Light and flowy, this skirt pairs perfectly with a more structured top or even a looser jumper depending on your taste. I love it with this striped number by Ruby (which is super comfy, by the way). For this shoot, I wore it with heels from Andrea Biani, however, it also works wonderfully with slides or sneakers.

Photography by Carmen Huter

August 22, 2018
Autumn Florals

Throughout the first few years of my career, I wore mostly black. I still mostly reach for neutral items for their wearability and longevity, but every so often I’m drawn to something printed. This floral Olivia dress by RUBY is one such item. Ever since I saw it in store, I knew it would fit right in with my wardrobe. It’s 100% silk, floor-length and falls perfectly to the floor. I love dressing it down with heeled boots (the ones pictured are from Mi Piaci) and my army green coat, especially as we enter the cooler months here in New Zealand. It’s also beautiful worn underneath a leather jacket. And I know it’ll be equally perfect for spring weddings paired with neutral heels or sandals. I don’t know about you, but I’m not about buying pieces that only last a season, I want clothes I’ll wear for years to come.

Are you more of a statement shopper or do you opt for blacks, greys and other neutrals?

Photography by Sophie Isabella

May 24, 2018
Ballantynes Fashion Week: Clothing with a conscience

With fashion weeks taking place all over the world at the moment, Ballantynes got in on the action and hosted an exciting calendar of events for Christchurch fashion lovers. The weeklong festivities included a runway show, Q&As with New Zealand designers, shopping events and Huffer’s 20th birthday party.

I was lucky to be invited along to an intimate soirée hosted in the Contemporary Lounge with the designers behind Twenty Seven Names and Harman Grubiša. I’ve long been a fan of Twenty Seven Names, particularly for their well-made, timeless garments that eschew trends and stand the test of time. Madeleine Harman and Jessica Grubiša of Harman Grubiša are newer on the scene, but have quickly cemented their role as fashion powerhouses. Since their show at NZFW last year, they’ve been making waves in the international fashion communities, recently winning the prestigious Woolmark Award.

The evening started off with cocktails and canapés before delving into the interview with Rachel, Madeleine and Jessica. Along with viewing favourite pieces from their new collections, they spoke about their friendships (they both went into business with their best friend), finding inspiration and ethical fashion. I loved hearing their stories about finding creativity and beauty in everything and how hard they work. “If it were easy, everyone would do it,” Twenty Seven Names has recently celebrated ten years in business and Rachel discussed how difficult the first few years were as a new business. “It’s nice to now be at a point where we’ve checked off all the goals we set out for ourselves at the beginning,” she says. All three girls were down to earth and easy to talk to, which is always refreshing in the fashion industry.

New Zealand-made garments are often expensive, which can be deterring to those on a budget. However, affordability and cheap clothes come at a cost, not only to the environment but to labourers and employees. Both Harman Grubiša and Twenty Seven Names pieces are made with high quality materials and everyone they employ is paid a reasonable, living wage. Sustainability is integral to both companies and they both use recycled materials and wastage in their pieces. They also design clothes that last for years, which makes the investment worthwhile.

I’ve always loved how Ballantynes, especially the Contemporary Lounge stocks and supports New Zealand designers. Having to save a bit longer and buy fewer items is one way to consume a little more consciously while supporting local makers and creatives.

All photos by Nancy Zhou.

September 24, 2017
You’re The One That I Want

In addition to being a cinematic and musical masterpiece, Grease is also arguably a fashion film. With iconic costumes designed by Albert Wolsky, the characters’ wardrobes are as important as the hugely popular songs and dialogue. The lead character’s style evolution from full circle skirts and Peter Pan collars to a tight leather pantsuit is one of cinema’s best transformations. The confidence that came with changing her look permeated into other aspects of her life. Sandy shed her squeaky clean demeanour and rejected her good girl reputation in favour of something more authentic. Whatever your motives, there’s something truly significant about changing your style as you grow up.

With New Zealand Fashion Week kicking off today, I can’t help but reflect on my personal style journey. As a youngster, I favoured books over clothes and lived in oversized t-shirts and shorts. I remember spending an entire day begrudgingly trying on dresses for a wedding and hating the way I looked in every single one. I spent my teenage years dancing and saw how costumes could transform and accentuate my features. It wasn’t until uni that I developed a love for fashion, wanting to support local, independent boutiques. I attended music festivals wearing bold prints and clashing colours. Working retail, I fell for black (groundbreaking, I know) for its versatility and flattering qualities. Now, a few years into my professional life, I feel like my style is a combination of all the above – melding together the various aspects of my life so far.

How have your tastes evolved over the years? Do you think fashion has the power to change your perspective and maybe even your life?

Images by Jillian Miller Photography

August 28, 2017
Opening Night at BFW16

Last week, I had the pleasure of attending Ballantynes Fashion Week‘s opening show. Held in the Contemporary Lounge, the evening began with bubbles, canapés and live music. For those of you who don’t know, Ballantynes is Christchurch’s oldest and most iconic department store. The company remains a mainstay in New Zealand’s fashion scene due to its wide range of local and international designers and focus on service. The staff are passionate about the selection of carefully curated pieces sold in store and provide an exceptional experience for every customer. Having worked in retail whilst living in Toronto, I always appreciate the impeccable level of service at Ballantynes. Needless to say, I’m lucky to have New Zealand’s best department store on my doorstep.

It was hard not to get excited about spring during BFW’s opening show, which featured SS 16/17 collections from various New Zealand designers and a few international names as well. The elegant show kicked off with a handsome man serenading the crowd to Michael Bublé, so we knew we were in for a memorable evening. With prints and stark whites taking centre stage, many of the outfits will transition well from daytime to night. Alongside the vibrant prints, we saw plenty of monochromatic looks. Needless to say, I know what I’ll be wearing this summer in Christchurch.

Thanks for a lovely evening, Ballantynes!

October 2, 2016
One Dress, Two Ways

Not usually one to gravitate towards red, I found myself drawn to the gorgeous print Ruby designer, Deanna Didovich dreamed up for her sister. Marina was attending a high profile wedding in Palm Springs and asked her sister to create something for her.

The dress, appropriately named, the Marina Gown, became the basis for Ruby’s Spring ’16 Collection, No Drama. It was featured in Harper’s Bazaar along with a myriad of other publications. Rather than donning a full-length gown, which might have been slightly ostentatious even for Fashion Week, I opted for the shorter Verse 1.0 mini dress and decided to style it two ways. The collection was inspired by enduring female friendships and the endless support they bring. I’ve always held my female friendships very dear, both with my two sisters and my girl gang around the globe. On that note: thank you to my dear friend, Carmen Huter who took these photographs for me and continually inspires me both professionally and personally.

Much like the collection itself, Verse 1.0 is certainly a no fuss option that transitions easily from daytime to night. Read more about the Spring ’16 collection.

Thanks for reading! For my next post, I’ll be talking about what to do in between NZFW shows.

August 28, 2016
A First Glance At NZFW

Attempting to squeeze as much as I can out of New Zealand Fashion Week, I’ve decided to chronicle each fashion-filled day.

NZFW kicked off tonight with womenswear duo, Harman Grubîsa. Made in New Zealand, the label is fronted by Madeleine Harman and Jessica Grubîsa. Their Autumn/Winter collection fuses their polar opposite aesthetics with shimmering metallics, brown, peachy pinks, and the customary black associated with New Zealand fashion. The warm hues of the collection were complemented with wavy hair, auburn eyes and bold red lips.

Longing to create a premium product with longevity, Harman Grubîsa comprises quality pieces that ultimately become an integral part of a woman’s wardrobe. Their Autumn/Winter collection is no exception, easily transitioning from daytime to night. What a fun way to kick off the week! We’re looking forward to what tomorrow holds…

Photos by Robyn Wilson of Anywhere I Roam Photography.

August 22, 2016
You make me blush

Ever since my retail days at Club Monaco, I’ve been a neutral dresser through and through. Working seven days a week, I struggled to look put together while remaining comfortable. Fortunately, Club Monaco has always excelled in the black, white and grey department, and I soon built up a wardrobe of quality, elevated basics.

This season, however, I’ve found myself swapping out a few of my neutral basics for blush. Pantone’s colour of the year, blush (or rose quartz) is easy to wear and mixes well with everything. As androgynous dressing becomes more mainstream, I can’t resist a blush blouse or dress paired with a tough leather jacket.

What colour do you find yourself reaching for again and again? I’d love to know!

Dress and leather jacket by Moochi.

August 14, 2016