Women's Style Guide

From elaborate, 15-step recipes to stimulating conversation and style choices that invite people to get to know you—the dinner party circuit is where it’s at. Autumn has us craving more intimate gatherings to hunker down from the oncoming cold so supper clubs, stylish soirées and dinner parties are going to be dotting your social calendar and they’re the ideal time to show off new looks and nosh. We’ve assembled a quick collection of quiet luxury blouses, bottoms and dress options to whet your appetite.

Choose from fine fabrics that show you put extra thought into your evening ensemble. Silk, cashmere, leather details and even velvet are rich, lush and have a posh perspective that puts you on everyone’s radar. Statement blouses beg the question: where does she shop and who does she think she is? Only you know the answer to that last one…

A fascinating print is a sure-fire conversation starter and this Ralph Lauren Collection blouse has a feminine perspective with a diary-inspired pattern of fashion sketches in silk that’s printed in a renowned Como, Italy, mill (drop that fun fact). Catch guests off guard with can’t-look-away colors such as this copper hue from Amanda Uprichard. It’s sensual, cool and has a relaxed fit with a welcome shine that dances by candlelight. It features matching trousers so you can show up in a full set and that’s a power move, don’t you think? Finally, pattern is where you reveal your personality. Veronica Beard comes to play with this top showcasing a paisley motif with dramatic, wide sleeve cuffs in a silk-blend with a bohemian lean. There’s a hint of the exotic in this piece so that gets you riffing on all your world travels (and everyone likes those kinds of tales).

All three tops are versatile enough to wear with more casual denim, tailored trousers and leather skirts and knowing your audience and your surroundings is the key to matching your looks to the mood.

Swap out counting calories for wearing them. Load up on rich coffee tones or savory butter yellow visuals. Douse yourself in decadent shades of sangria, red wine and notes of caramel. It’s decidedly delicious and stays in theme for what’s on the table. We can test it out on our choices of bottoms that pair nicely with our previously mentioned tops. 

The sweet treat of the night has to be this soft suede mini skirt in a toffee color from Khaite. It’s a way to add a sexier vibe to the in-home dining experience and joins in during fall but can stick around in winter by adding black tights. Studies show dark chocolate is good for your health (and even better for autumnal outfits). It’s fitting that this Ralph Lauren Collection maxi skirt’s floor-sweeping silhouette makes a grand entrance while the stretch-infused satin has a little give after all your feasting. From heels to ballet flats, this skirt can be modified and enhanced by the right footwear. Finally, paired with the aforementioned blouse, these copper-colored pants from Amanda Uprichard have a liquid-inspired drape that has us reminiscing about an after-dinner whiskey digestif. Crafted from a hammered silk-inspired material, these wide-leg pants are an easy way to add sophistication to the night.

Show your hosts that you’re honored to receive an invitation (and secure a future one) by wearing something that speaks to the importance of the evening. A night out with friends should always be the reason to bring out key, party-worthy pieces. If this is a last-minute invite or you’re experiencing a desk to dinner moment, the rush is cut in half when you opt for a one-and-done dress. Here are some pieces to show up looking ready for the festivities.

The best of both worlds, this Brunello Cucinelli cable knit sweater dress is crafted in a refined mohair-blend that’s peppered with sparkling paillettes for an added playfulness. It results in a look that doesn’t take itself too seriously but provides a comfortable fabric with a subtle yet an attention-grabbing detail. This style even works for the hostess as a chic yet approachable piece that checks all the boxes in terms of ease, femininity and spotlight-stealing looks. If the night proves to be a touch more casual, Zimmermann’s denim mini dress is a way to bridge the gap between formal looks that are grounded in everyday fabrics. While the jean material is more down to earth, it’s in an ultra-dark wash so it appears more elevated while the slightly puffed shoulders and heart-shaped crystal trims know how to work the room. The final selection is both simple yet stunning and it’s a classic black slip dress from L’agence. Effortless and flirty, this body-skimming LBD is an anchor piece for further embellishments in the form of blazers, faux-fur jackets and a sultry little wrap scarf that hangs off your shoulder to keep you warm and keep them guessing.

Work up to a satisfying ensemble by weaving in accessories that are made for elevated evenings. Outfit-completers help orchestrate your look so build upon the moment with Chloè’s black leather mule with this season’s popular charm embellishments or a mini Jacquemus bag with decorative gold hardware for an accessory with an artful aesthetic. When you go in for a toast, all eyes will spot your Logan Hollowell gold tusk ring with a pear-shaped diamond and a design that hugs the sides of each finger. Creed’s Royal Princess Oud fragrance helps you leave a lasting impression to charm guests as they lean in for a quick hug or handshake. The scent is described as captivating and seductive–like wearing a red dress.

Private gatherings set around food and drink are always a grand occasion so dress with equal panache and exuberance. Our final suggestion is to never show up empty handed. Your good manners will be the first impression and tasteful gesture so come prepared with Flamingo Estate’s California Native Mountain Wildflower Honey. This 100% raw, antioxidant rich honey has a complex floral taste and a delicious herbal finish on the palate. It will most certainly make its way into a number of cocktails, hot toddies and charcuterie boards so it’s a big win in terms of hostess gifts.