Fashion: Mid-winter formal wear

Creative and fashion director for Viva and Lifestyle·Other·

13 Jun, 2015 03:00 AM2 mins to read

Photos / Babiche Martens

Mid-winter formalities never looked better with these luxuriously dark options.

With ball season and winter weddings well underway, the quest for something to wear needn't be arduous, with several key pieces offering versatility and restraint. From billowing maxi gowns to languid shift dresses, the focus is on easy, timeless pieces.

Designers have focused on luxurious winter fabrics such as velvet, brocade and jacquard along with dramatic embellishments and trims for an understated yet elegant take on dressing for formal occasions this season.

While Victorian-inspired pieces have made a dramatic return, this selection offers a more contemporary perspective and a failsafe approach to looking polished when the dress code requires something special.

Twenty-seven Names, Aim and Kate Sylvester have all included broody velvets in their winter collections, providing the perfect base for metallic and jewel accessories to shine.

Ubiquitous winter florals also get a look-in, with Juliette Hogan's painterly 100 per cent silk dark floral print the pick of the bunch. The floor-length "Ghost" dress maximises this print to full effect (#2) and combines Hogan's signature mix of sportswear and luxury into a standout piece for any special occasion.

1 Vanessa Bruno blazer, $830, from Adorno. Stolen Girlfriends Club embellished dress, $799. Mimco leopard print pumps, $229.
2 Juliette Hogan floral print gown, $689.
3 Liam cocktail dress, $389. Mi Piaci pumps, $230.
4 Twenty-seven Names velvet T-shirt, $270. Zambesi skirt with fringing, $395. Witchery boots, $449.90. 9ct gold freshwater pearl and diamond pendant, $650, and 9ct gold belcher chain, $440, from Walker & Hall.
5 Aim velvet dress, $349. Witchery suede boots, $449.90.
6 Kate Sylvester velvet gown, $695. Witchery suede boots, $449.90.