Where Stylists Shop: The Special-Occasion Brands for Your Next Formal Event

Wedding? Anniversary? 30th? Here’s a list of stylist-approved brands when a black tie or formal dress code is calling.

Picture this: you’ve got a big occasion coming up – it could be a sibling’s graduation, your parents’ wedding anniversary or a blow-out wedding. After the buzz of the initial invite comes the inevitable racking of the brain; what are you going to wear? Even those of us with substantial wardrobes can be stumped by dress codes that go beyond cocktail. To help with the search, we asked seven Australian stylists for their favourite occasion-wear labels to shop.

Karinda Mutabazi, Melbourne stylist and creative director

“I love the drama of Romance Was Born, Erik Yvon and Youkhana. Bianca Spender and Carla Zampatti for incredible cuts for real bodies, Leo Lin for colour and something a little bit different, and Silvana Tedesco for couture. Mndatory for made-to-measure pieces, and Arthur Galan for unique fabrics and statement blazers.”

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Jasmine Knights, Melbourne stylist

“I love Scanlan Theodore, Toni Maticevski and Bec & Bridge for high-end occasion-wear. They offer refined, bold and modern designs, perfect for sophisticated events and making a statement.”

Holly Karas, Melbourne stylist

Van Der Kooij, Kourh and Leo Lin make really unique pieces that stand out from the other occasion-wear brands! If you’re looking for interesting silhouettes and bright fun colours, these brands will have you covered.” 

Elle Hioe, Sydney stylist

“I don’t think of many of my clothes as ‘occasion-wear’, but if I wanted to pick up something really beautiful I’d choose Aeie Studios. It’s a really amazing Vietnamese brand with gorgeous draping.”

Elliot Garnaut, Melbourne stylist and commentator

“No two occasions are the same for me, so building a well-rounded wardrobe of foundations is super important. Outerwear and tailoring are from Saint Laurent, Wardrobe NYC or Bottega Veneta. For everyday suits for hosting events, attending race days, appearing on TV, I am seriously addicted to Suitsupply. Its first Australian store is in Martin Place, Sydney.”

Fleur Egan, Sydney stylist

“I love the drama and texture of Romance Was Born, the scale of Jordan Dalah and the versatility of Paco Rabanne.”

Jade Leung, Melbourne stylist

“I’m not a massive occasion-wear kinda gal, but on the occasions that I do need to lean into something a little dressier, I rely on the chic simplicity of Wardrobe NYC. If I’m after something cool with a twist, Acne Studios.”

For more shopping advice from some of Australia’s top stylists, read the rest of our Where Stylists Shop series.

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