How To Rise To The Occasion: Outfits For Special Events

May 18, 2019

This article was written for Annabel & Grace, which is now part of Rest Less.

A few days ago, Daphne Selfe – the world’s oldest supermodel at 90 – was front page news on The Telegraph. She was quoted as saying that “Wearing jeans to the theatre is ‘disrespectful’ to actors” and urged the British public to aspire to be more formal. She does have a point. Which is why we thought it was a great idea to show you some outfits for special events…

Occasion wear can, of course, be eyewateringly expensive. So Annabel has chosen some glamorous outfits that won’t break the bank – good news for all you social butterflies out there!

Shoes: Este Block Heels Wide E fit. An easy to wear 2″ heel and elegant pointed toe. Available in Silver (as shown here), Red and Nude. From £17.50. Sizes 4 – 8. SHOP NOW

Joanna Hope Chiffon Overlay trousers. Made from a good quality jersey fabric with a sheer floaty over-layer, these are fabulous palazzo trousers that ooze elegance. As JD Williams so rightly say : “Complete with elasticated waistband, these trousers promise optimum comfort no matter what the occasion, without compromising on style.” Sizes 10 – 32. Machine washable. Available in Navy and Grey as modelled by Annabel, plus Black, Ivory, Teal or Zebra. From £36.50. SHOP NOW

Together Beaded Top £55. Exclusive to JD Williams, this fabulous bead and sequin swing top features a zigzag hem. Hand wash. Length 29in/74cm. Available in sizes 10 – 32. SHOP NOW

Joanna Hope Lace Maxi Dress £69. Stretch lace with a gently fishtailed hem and a low cut neckline that is discreetly covered in mesh. The body of the dress is nude line in a stretch jersey fabric. The back has a keyhole fastening and is trimmed with eyelash lace. Sizes 8 – 18, the length is 54in/137cm and, rather handily, this dress is machine washable. SHOP NOW

Double Cuff Lace dress I think Annabel looks ab fab in this wonderful ivory dress. Knee length and with the prettiest sheer 3/4 sleeves, this one is another winner from Joanna Hope. Hand wash. £45 SHOP NOW

Shawls & bags: Annabel’s own

Did you see our Fashion Heroes? Relaxed and Comfortable EveryDay Style

This post is sponsored by JD Williams. Annabel’s choices are completely independent and from the latest collections on the JDW website.

Photography by Annabel Vere

Join the discussion

Read our full commenting terms and guidelines

Comfort You Can Trust, Value You’ll Love

Discover Chums where everyday clothing, footwear and home essentials are designed with comfort and ease in mind.

Enjoy trusted quality, great value and a wide choice, all made to help you feel comfortable at home and out and about.

Get 20% off with code RSLS20^.

Shop the range

^Excludes items over £150 and those in clearance. £30 minimum spend. Valid until 30.08.26 at 23:59

Get the latest ideas, advice and inspiration

Useful and interesting recommendations, personalised to you, straight to your inbox. Covering travel, health, lifestyle, jobs and more.

By signing up you acknowledge you have read our Privacy Policy & Terms.

Enjoying Rest Less? Help us reach more people like you

Leave us a rating Want to tell us something?