Phase Eight’s occasionwear is so good right now: 10 eye-catching pieces everyone will ask you about
The new collection is full of elegant dresses with sleeves and pockets, plus all the accessories
We don't know about you, but it's not every day we're being invited to a fancy summer event. Which means that when it does happen, we never have anything to wear. If you've got a summer wedding or a trip to the races to dress for and are having a mild existential crisis about it, we suggest checking out the new-in collection at Phase Eight.
It's full of elegant occasionwear, including a gorgeous Goodwood edit – we're talking flattering midi dresses with sleeves and sometimes pockets, too – and all the accessories to go with it. So, if you've got somewhere to be this summer and nothing to wear, don't panic. We've found 8 chic looks that will have people stopping you and asking where your outfit's from. Compliments guaranteed.
Phase Eight Katie Sleeveless Scuba Midi Dress
Phase Eight Katie Sleeveless Scuba Midi Dress
This dress is part of the brand's Goodwood collaboration and is made for a day at the races, but with the vibrant orangey red colourway and flattering cut, it's bound to be a stand out, whatever the occasion.
The structured scuba fabric, square necklace and darts in the bodice make it super flattering, and it comes in both regular and petite lengths. Add a chic black hat and accessories for a modern, elegant look.
Phase Eight Bella Floral Midi Shirt Dress
Phase Eight Bella Floral Midi Shirt Dress
This painterly printed shirt dress is another showstopper. We love the pretty, ruched puff sleeves and it comes in sizes 6 to 26, so you can ensure the perfect fit. This one can be dressed up with a clutch and heeled sandals or worn with pumps for the office, making it a versatile buy.
Ice blue is one of the shades of the season and, when combined with the simple, elegant structure of Phase Eight's Laya dress, it makes a real statement.
The pretty cap sleeves, nipped in waist and slightly flared skirt give a nod to vintage style but the hidden zip and textured fabric make it feel really modern. Pair with chocolate brown accessories or a pop of red for a S/S 26 twist.
Phase Eight Natalie Floral Midi Shirt Dress
Phase Eight Natalie Floral Midi Shirt Dress
We love a sleek monochrome look and this shirt dress will look gorgeous styled with simple, chic black accessories. It comes with a slip underneath, making it an effortless occasionwear solution, but it's also a great everyday piece, dressed down with ballet pumps or sandals.
Phase Eight Azalea Fil Coupe Floral Midi Dress
Phase Eight Azalea Fil Coupe Floral Midi Dress
This is another fabulous dress you'll be able to wear again and again. With a floaty tiered skirt and ruched sleeves, it taps into this season's romantic 'fairy dress' trend. You can style it up with gold or white heels or wear with a rattan bag and sandals for summer holidays. It's a great multitasker.
Phase Eight Anabella Floral Shirt Midi Dress
Phase Eight Anabella Floral Shirt Midi Dress
Another piece from the Goodwood range, and another gorgeous piece you can dress up or down. The print does all the talking here and the 3/4 length sleeves mean you don't have to worry about another layer in summer. Just add a chic red hat for the big occasion.
Phase Eight Alia Tan Spot Double Layer Jumpsuit
Phase Eight Alia Tan Spot Double Layer Jumpsuit
Polka dots are not only huge for summer, but the print is also set to continue its reign into autumn, which makes this jumpsuit (with pockets!) a smart buy. It also reminds us of that stunning polo dress from Pretty Woman.
Add an ivory blazer for cooler days and a wide-brimmed hat or this gorgeous straw boater depending on the occasion.
While we're on the polka-dot theme, this classic, floaty navy and cream polka-dot dress is one you'll pull out of the wardrobe again and again.
It would look fabulous for winter events with some strappy heels and a smoking jacket-style blazer, or on a summer holiday with sandals and a tote. The beauty is in the detail with this one, too, as it has a gorgeous bow at the bag and a pretty tiered skirt. Simply stunning.
Phase Eight Uma Floral Pleated Maxi Dress
Phase Eight Uma Floral Pleated Maxi Dress
Painterly florals are a key trend this season and next and we love the striking look of this pleated maxi, which has delicate cap sleeves and comes in both petite and regular lengths. It's lightweight for warmer weather and you can add a chic black blazer for autumn.
If you're not a dress person, this linen blend suit (we've linked to the blazer above, but you can add the tapered trousers) is a great alternative for summer. It's also a versatile buy as you can wear the blazer over summer dresses and pair the trousers with shirts for warm days in the office.
The bomber jacket gets a tailored update
Barrel leg trousers get a cord update for winter
The Princess of Wales looks chic in tartan
Cosy and colourful jumpers are a must-have
