Key pieces to see you through the season’s nuptial celebrations and beyond.
It's the start of the wedding season, along with the first signs of summer thanks to sunnier days and balmy nights. With the handwritten invitation comes the inevitable question: what to wear? Fret not. When it comes to procuring the perfect dress, shoe or clutch, trust Bond Street's global fashion houses to deliver.
As well as providing plenty of stylish occasion wear options, this historic street has played a key role in many a couple’s love story, both past and present. Fun fact. Before the start of World War II, Bond Street was once home to a marriage bureau, started by two savvy 24-year-olds, Heather Jenner and Mary Oliver. Today, the heritage jewellery houses that are at the heart of this prestigious shopping destination – Boodles, Cartier, Tiffany & Co. and plenty more besides – are still the first point of call when it comes to choosing diamond-encrusted engagement rings and bespoke wedding bands. Their impressive offering and ring-fitting services are second-to-none.
‘As well as providing plenty of stylish occasion wear options, this historic street has played a key role in many a couple’s love story’
And there's nowhere quite like Claridge’s or Brown's Hotel in which to tie the knot and toast the happy couple. At nearby Fortnum & Mason, a fleet of wedding planners are ready to spring into action. The Jimmy Choo store on New Bond Street offers shoe recolouring and ‘champagne shopping days’ for bridal parties. And when it comes to the all-important wedding gift-list, Asprey on Bruton Street has a stunning array of silver photo frames and glass vases to choose from.
And if you really want to look the part – whether you’re a friend of the bride, the groom or a plus one – and you want to make a splash this summer, forget rigid dress codes and ditch the flouncy hat. From an alfresco ceremony in the country to a slick city wedding at the local town hall, our wedding style edit has you covered with statement pieces that you can wear time and time again.
‘Whether you’re a friend of the bride or the groom or a plus one, you’ll want to make a splash this summer’
The Perfect Dress...
Pretty summer florals inspired by bridal bouquets are synonymous with weddings. Ralph Lauren's ruffle-trim, georgette gown, £419, with its flutter sleeves and delicate flower print, hits all the right notes. In sharp contrast, could there be anything chicer than wearing black to a wedding? Pair Dolce & Gabbana's beautiful stretch-lace calf-length dress, £2,850, with oversized black sunglasses for that extra touch of sassy Sicilian glamour. For some, peachy tones may bring back unwanted memories of ’80s bridesmaid dresses, but the cut and colour of Chloé's wing-sleeved flared tea dress, cut from crêpe de chine, couldn't be more current. Max Mara's sleek 'Envers' satin dress in jade, £550, boasts a plunging V-neck at the front and back and will take you from wedding breakfast to dance floor with one twirl.
The Modern Trouser Suit...
Who said the suit was the preserve of men whenever the occasion calls for something on the smart-side? In womenswear, the classic two-piece in a gentle riot of spring pastels and a slimmer cut is perfect for this time of year and even more so for a stylish summer wedding. Stella McCartney's pinstripe and pale blue, single-breasted blazer, £1,350, is cut from light and airy recycled viscose. Pair with matching mid-rise straight-leg trousers, £690, designed to cascade to the floor. Elsewhere, the single-breasted style and blush pink in Burberry's softly tailored wool jacket, £1,890, and flattering slim-line trousers £950, are a match made in heaven.
Forever Accessories...
Unlike the bridal gown, there's something rather satisfying about wearing something you purchased for a friend's wedding long after the 'I dos'. A pair of killer heels such as Aquazzura's Tequila Sandal 105 in silver leather with gem-encrusted straps, £1,095, would look equally as good at any other social occasion over the summer months. Elevate your dress – or trouser suit – with a pair of statement earrings. Jil Sander's handcrafted brass earrings, £660, are notable for their lightweight, interlocking hoops. The cat-eye frames on Alexander McQueen's Punk Rivet sunglasses in black, £330, feature silver tips and solid smoke lenses that are perfect for outdoor ceremonies. Need something compact and colourful to accompany your outfit and carry your day and evening essentials? Then Gucci's new patent leather Jackie small shoulder bag, £2,400, with its soft crescent shape and zesty shade of tangerine, is just the ticket.