Dresses and gowns that bring frivolity for gathering in the wintertime.
While the sun drops out of sight quickly in the evenings, that doesn’t necessarily mean the day is done.
Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland has been especially busy this month, with various festivals and award shows lighting up the nights. It’s a reminder that there is still plenty to do in the darkest days of the year – and that celebrations can enliven time you might otherwise spend tucked away.
In this collection, you’ll find ornate and exciting occasion wear for autumn and winter. Find inspiration in the textures and patterns, or take cues from their utility (most are sleek and easily layered with tights, gloves or underneath coats).
Local luxury label Harris Tapper has announced it is working with Modus Operandi to bring its pre-autumn designs to customers in the US. This velvet-smooth floral gown is one of the garments in this collection, which is full of sleek and surprising occasion wear.
This halterneck dress by Ruby is a deep shade of pink and finds a little interest in a gathering on the hip.
This black dress is made from a lightweight cotton-silk, a material that produces plenty of dynamic movement. The drawstrings, featured at the sleeve and waist, are adjustable, which means you can fashion it to your liking.
This silk dress by Twenty Seven Names is cut on the bias. The simple shape allows the forget-me-not floral print to pop.
A moodier floral print by Juliette Hogan draws on the colours of winter blooms, making it suitable for the season.
This black satin dress features artful draping at the neckline. If you enjoy the shape as it is styled above, consider adding a tie or belt, and ruching at the waist.
Layers create movement in the skirt of this simple dress, which is one you can dress up with simple additions – think heels, high-shine jewellery and a sweet handbag.
Creasing creates inventive texture for this pinafore-style dress by Alpha60.
The asymmetric draping at the neckline of this gown creates structure through the bodice. If you prefer something colourful, it also comes in a bright blue and warm brown.
This velvet dress features a tartan print. The texture makes the print a little more subtle, and is a rich addition for wintry occasions.
This loose, long-sleeve dress finds a point of difference in large format black and white flowers.
This go-everywhere dress could be an easy everyday ensemble, but would also benefit from elevated accessories. The cap sleeve is key to this transition, creating soft power for the silhouette.
This lace dress comes in a wine red colourway. If you’re laying a black slip underneath, you’ll create real dimension.
This maximalist piece is aptly named the “Party Dress”. It delivers a suitably buzzy effect, created through the layering of images.
Subversive stylings are a staple of Wynn Hamlyn’s occasion wear. This dress proves the rule, featuring a sheer mesh that overlays a golden floral print.
Consult secondhand sources for formal wear too. This Isabel Marant dress, best for a size 8 or 10, is in stock at Go Jo’s – it’s expertly tiered and made from black silk.
More shopping
From styling advice to seasonal stocks.
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13 Matching Sets That Will Make You Do A Double Take. Pick and mix these co-ordinated sets for sweet autumnal styling.
15 Great Dresses For Days When You Don’t Want To Think About What To Wear.This collection of low-fuss dresses will simplify your morning routine.
14 Autumn Accessories To Help Transition Your Wardrobe Into Colder Months. Small additions for easy transitional dressing.
23 Knitted Jumpers & Cardigans For Early Autumn Layering. Autumn is inbound. Consider this new season knitwear for savvy layering.