What to Wear to Summer Galas

What is it about the summer that leaves us craving a little extra culture? Whether it's a ritzy art exhibition, gala or splendid sporting event, we simply can’t help but delight in these quintessentially British pastimes – not only for the glass of bubbles or pitcher of Pimm’s likely on offer, but for the much-anticipated style moments that come with them. Yes, we can't deny how much we love a summer soirée, but alas, there is one drawback to a diary filled with events, and its the dress codes. And the impending fear of getting it oh so horribly wrong. Gone are the days when RSVPs contained strict guidelines on all the dos and don'ts, and instead we're left puzzling the appropriateness of every ensemble. So, to eliminate some of the stress, we’ve decoded the dress codes to some of the summer's major events – leaving you to focus on simply enjoying them instead. #### Art Exhibitions, Galas & Garden Parties If you're an art enthusiast planning to visit the highly-coveted Royal Academy Summer Exhibition, or you've snuck an invite to a swanky exhibition opening — you will, of course, want to ensure you look like a work of art yourself. For either, little rules apply— think semi-smart, with a hint of colour or print so you complement the artistic backdrop. As for garden parties and galas, it's the ideal opportunity to debut your latest floral number, [boho dress](https://www.fenwick.co.uk/women/clothing/dresses) or [ruffled skirt](https://www.fenwick.co.uk/women/clothing/skirts). And, if print isn't really your thing, you can't go wrong with a classic clean-cut [midi dress](https://www.fenwick.co.uk/women/clothing/dresses?prefn1=women-clothing-dresses-length&prefv1=Midi) in a flattering [pastel](https://www.fenwick.co.uk/edit/sweet-spot-pastel-hued-dresses) hue. Elegant and sophisticated — the compliments will be rolling in.

#### Wimbledon, Henley & Stylish Sporting Events Sporting events are often accompanied by cumbersome dress codes, but that doesn't mean you're restricted to wearing anything dull— after all, spectactors can still be the centre of attention. Whilst no strict dress codes apply at Wimbledon (hurrah!), dressing smartly is encouraged, especially if you've snapped up tickets to a box or centre court, where there may be a few royal faces near by. Henley Royal Regatta on the other hand, is a little stricter as women are required to wear [dresses](https://www.fenwick.co.uk/women/clothing/dresses) or [skirts](https://www.fenwick.co.uk/women/clothing/skirts), with a hemline below the knee. And, definitely no trousers or jumpsuits, which, trust us, you'll want to follow to avoid any red-faced moments.

#### Finishing Touches To complete your summer event looks — it's all about the details. No matter how strict or ambiguous a dress code may be, [accessories](https://www.fenwick.co.uk/women/accessories) give you the chance to have some fun, and really express yourself. Why not experiment with a colourful [clutch bag](https://www.fenwick.co.uk/search/?cgid=fenwick-website-4102-4484-4217) in a complementary or even clashing hue, stun in statement [sunglasses](https://www.fenwick.co.uk/women/accessories/sunglasses), or dazzle in stand-out [jewellery](https://www.fenwick.co.uk/women/accessories/jewellery). And, perhaps amp up the drama of a simple ensemble with a silky printed [scarf](https://www.fenwick.co.uk/women/accessories/scarves) tied softly around the neck — that way you're guaranteed to make an entrance.