Styling One Dress for Different Occasions

Outfit repeating isn't just acceptable–it's sustainable. When you're investing in quality pieces (and don't want to invest in fast fashion), getting more than one wear out of your best dresses is a no-brainer. It just comes down to how you style them! 

Looking for dresses you can wear to various events? Garbarini not only has the dresses, but we also have tips on how to style them for different occasions. 

Bridal Shower or Casual Wedding Guest

We've said it once, and we'll say it again: animal print is neutral. The Ganni Printed Cotton Tie Strap Midi Dress is a fun neutral you can wear to a bridal shower or as a wedding guest. The little details, like the plunging V-neckline and three tie bands down the chest, are what make this dress pop. But it's the cotton material that makes it highly wearable and comfortable. For a bridal shower, pair it with a ballet flat or sandal. A stiletto and gold jewelry will elevate the look if you wear it to a wedding. 

Work or Vacation

A mini-shift dress might be one of the most versatile options in your closet. And when it comes with a removable belt, it increases the ways in which you can rewear and style it. The relaxed, unlined Brochu Walker Kate Belted Dress is made from a cotton-polyester blend that is light and airy. If you're headed to the office, tie the belt around your waist for a flattering fit. Then, pair it with a loafer or ankle boot. You can even throw an oversized blazer on for a professional finish. While on vacation, leave the dress hanging loose and wear it with a platform sandal. 

Carpool or Poolside

Lazy mornings or a long day at the pool call for a dress that's as chic as it is simple. The Frank & Eileen Lauren Polo Dress Heritage Jersey is just that. Putting a modern twist on a sporty classic, this polo jersey dress features short sleeves and a raw hem. It's so casual and comfortable that you can throw it on over a bathing suit or before you've even had your morning coffee. The timeless style allows you to move through your entire day in this dress without having to change!

Mother’s Day Brunch or Fun Night Out

Stay polished and sophisticated wherever the day takes you in the Ramy Brook Odette Dress. This collared tank dress features a button-down front and elastic waist for effortless comfort. If you're going to a nice Mother's Day brunch, pair this mini with heels and a classic handbag. Going out somewhere fun and casual? Wear this dress with a platform sandal or sneakers. 

At the Office or Out to Dinner

Flattering T-shirt dresses are great for a day at the office or for drinks and dinner. It's also a dress you'll turn to again and again. The Brochu Walker Havana Mini Dress gives a playful, feminine update to a classic button-down with its tiered skirt and puff sleeves. Wear it with a simple sandal and cardigan for an office-friendly look. Kick it up a notch with a high heel and waist-cinching belt at night. 

Weekend at the Winery or Baby Shower

Some occasions call for a gorgeous dress. Take, for instance, a baby shower. The Pistola Bianca Dress is a flowy, lightweight midi dress with a smocked bodice. It also has adjustable straps and everyone's favorite feature: pockets! Wear it with sneakers for a day at a winery, or dress it up with strappy heels or wedges for a baby shower. If you want to make more of a statement, try the Marie Oliver Dixon Dress. Its Zodiac print is playful and whimsical, while the stitched-down box pleats create an elegant drop-waist silhouette.

Cocktail Party or International Vacation

Calling all Boho beauties. The Ba and Sh Aude Dress is a gorgeous maxi you can wear to a cocktail party or when you're out to dinner on an international vacation. Its bib-style design and luxurious gold buttons give the outfit a distinctive, refined touch. Not to mention, it's made in Morocco with eco-conscious materials, creating the perfect blend of sustainability and elegance. Feel good, look good!

Baby Shower or Beach Town 

Headed to a baby shower? With its vintage lace accents and floral and bow print, the LoveShackFancy Solbina Dress is perfect for the occasion. It also works great if you're spending the day in a beach town. The soft, breathable cotton fabric makes it ideal for warm weather, and the smocking at the back ensures a comfortable fit all day long. All that's left is slipping into your favorite pair of sandals and grabbing a tote filled with your essentials.

East Coast Wedding Guest or Corporate Affair

The location of a wedding can influence what kind of dress you wear. On the East Coast, think tailored and polished, like the Theory Blazer Mini Dress. This chic sleeveless sheath flatters every figure, ensuring a smooth, clean look. You can also wear it to your next work event. Whether it's a conference or a celebratory party, this sleek dress looks fantastic with everything from ballet flats to sling-back pumps. 

Cocktail Party or Wedding Guest

You'll want to look your best if you're attending a cocktail party or wedding with a cocktail dress code. Dresses that can get the job done at both are the BCBG Clothing/BNY Financial Printed Cowl Halter Dress and No. 21 Giant Ruffle Dress. For events that lean more casual, the flowy BCBG halter dress is amazing. The print on this midi dress is bold and eye-catching, while the asymmetrical hemline and crossover back straps make it unique and flirty. If the event is more upscale, the Giant Ruffle Dress is dramatic and playful. Pair it with heels and statement earrings to complete the look.

Western Wedding Guest or Country Concert

Ready to embrace your inner cowgirl? Then, you need the Ganni Light Denim Belt Midi Dress. This sleeveless gown features a flattering V-neckline and is made from eco-friendly materials. It works great as a Western wedding guest dress. Wear it with denim heels for a monochromatic look or gold pumps for simple elevation. You could also pair it with cowboy boots or sneakers for your next country concert.

Work Event or Graduation

Graduation season is upon us. Whether you're attending the actual ceremony or just heading to the parties, you're going to need a nice dress. The Diane Von Furstenberg Zidane Dress is the quintessential wrap dress featuring a black and white pattern and daring slit in the back. Wear it with black knee-high boots for a classic look. You could also try the L'Agence Idy Button Front Tank Dress. This dress has a modern square neckline, thick straps, and a pretty Tapestry Jungle print that's elevated by golden embossed-dome buttons. Both of these dresses can also be worn to work events. Trade in the heels for a flat or platform shoe if you'll be on your feet all day.

Black Tie Wedding or New Year’s Eve

Wedding dress codes can be confusing. If you're invited to a Black Tie wedding, you'll want to get a floor-length gown. Instead of something plain and simple, go for fun and sparkly with the L'Agence Karma Sequin Maxi Dress. This dress has a body-skimming fit and striking black sequins that catch the light with every move. If the wedding is during one of the colder months, wear it with a faux fur jacket or shawl for a luxurious head-to-toe look. If you don't have any Black Tie weddings in the future, there's always New Year's Eve! Pair it with strappy heels and a bold earring, and watch as all the heads turn.

Destination Wedding Guest or Beach Vacation

Searching for your next destination wedding guest dress? Look no further than the Retrofete Teryn Dress. This strapless dress features a gorgeous floral print in a color scheme made for an island. Plus, its ruched bodice and flowy chiffon create a flattering silhouette that's dreamy and stylish. Pair it with strappy sandals and a drop earring to complete the look. Even if you're not going to a beach wedding, a beach vacation is another excuse to pack this dress! Grab a simple clutch and head off to a romantic dinner.

Birthday Party or Bachelorette Weekend

A short and flirty dress calls for a fun occasion. The LoveShackFancy Rayne Dress is perfect for a birthday party or a bachelorette weekend. This strapless dress features a pretty pastel print and flattering silhouette. If it's your birthday, throw on a pair of heels and a delicate necklace to make an elegant statement. Those attending bachelorette parties can layer their look with a fun jacket and accessories.

Derby Party or Upscale Event

The Rebecca Vallance Azera Midi Dress blends sophistication with a modern edge. With a low scoop back, fitted bodice and skirt, and spaghetti necktie, this halter dress is alluring and feminine. Wear it to a Kentucky Derby party with a simple shoe and your best fascinator or hat. Or keep the accessories minimal and wear it to your next upscale event. 

Need help styling your dress? Call us at Garbarini at  303-333-8686 to schedule an appointment with one of our professional fashion stylists, or email elisa@garbarinishop.com.