At this time of year, many of us are looking forward to outdoor events as the warm season beckons with lovely summer occasions. Weddings, holidays, barbecues and even events such as Royal Ascot; there is so much outdoor living to enjoy during the summer months.

The question, as always, is what to wear? The good news is that nowadays there are far fewer rules and regulations as to what is deemed ‘correct’. While events such as Royal Ascot still maintain a certain dress code in each enclosure, weddings and other such occasions have become more relaxed over the years.

Some invitations may stipulate a dress code – smart-casual, black tie, or no white dresses at a wedding – and these should be adhered to, but many other events will be more casual about your attire, so you can prioritise being comfortable.

Animal print
We are spoilt for choice on the high street with a plethora of dresses in different styles, lengths and materials, so it can often be hard to make a decision. If you want to be on-trend this year, animal print is now a staple of the wardrobe. We may have thought leopard print was a passing fad, but it is here to stay.

Boden has a great choice of flattering dresses including a long sleeve leopard print dress which is nicely cinched at the waist and, at the time of writing is only £65.66. Next offers a drop waist maxi design with flattering sheer sleeves for £46. The advantage of an animal print is that you can choose one of the shades of the pattern to style with a jacket, wrap, hat or shoes in a solid colour, which softens the full animal print. Phase Eight, Monsoon and John Lewis are other good places to look.

Suits
I recently wrote about ‘power dressing’ and this can easily be incorporated into any summer event outfit. One benefit is that often a trouser ensemble can enable you to wear a more comfortable shoe, especially if you will be on your feet for any length of time.

If you are wearing a waistcoat it can be dressed up with a frilly shirt in a different shade – or if the weather is going to be warmer, a waistcoat can stand alone. If you choose to wear a hat, an over-the-top style doesn’t always complement a trouser suit. Instead, aim for a classic style; a pillbox shape, reminiscent of Jackie Kennedy, paired with a bright handbag, can certainly elevate the look.

Floral
Floral midi dresses are still proving popular and are incredibly easy to accessorise. Fabric is important and a material that does not overly crease is helpful; linen is lovely but it creases and often can appear crumpled. Linen mixed with viscose or polyester can look great without the creasing, so check the labels when you are out shopping.

Shoes
If your event is on grass, look for a wedge or espadrille style shoe. The key difference in these styles is the material of the sole. Espadrilles originated in Spain and are generally defined by a natural fibre sole, usually made from jute or esparto rope. Wedge shoes sport a thicker, more elevated sole in leather, rubber, or man-made material, and are shaped upwards, giving more of a heel effect. The beauty of these shoes are they rarely date or go out of fashion; a win-win in my book!