Retrofête dresses are known for their high-impact glamour, luxurious fabrics, and flattering silhouettes. But what if you want to wear your favorite Retrofête piece beyond evening events? With the right styling, you can seamlessly transition a Retrofête dress from a daytime outing to a nighttime affair. Whether you’re headed to brunch, a business lunch, or an art gallery during the day and have cocktails or dinner plans after, here’s how to make your Retrofête dress work around the clock.
Choose the Right Dress: Versatility is Key
Not all Retrofête dresses are created equal for day-to-night versatility. Opt for styles that strike a balance between casual and glam—think slip dresses, wrap dresses, or midi silhouettes in more muted tones or lighter fabrics like satin or silk. Avoid heavy embellishments or all-over sequins for daywear unless you plan to tone them down with layering.
Great options for day-to-night styling include:
- Satin or velvet midi dresses
- Subtle sequin wrap dresses
- Neutral-toned slip dresses
Step 1: Tone It Down for Daytime
To make your Retrofête dress daytime-appropriate, you’ll want to add layers and accessories that bring in a casual or relaxed feel.
Styling tips for daytime:
- Layer with a blazer, denim jacket, or oversized cardigan to give structure or ease to your look.
- Footwear matters: Swap out stilettos for sneakers, ankle boots, or loafers to give your outfit a more grounded vibe.
- Minimal accessories: Opt for a crossbody bag, delicate jewelry, and natural makeup to keep the look fresh and effortless.
- Layer over a turtleneck or T-shirt: For more casual styles, you can even wear a fitted tee or top underneath for a cool, editorial look.
Step 2: Glam It Up for the Evening
When it’s time to transition to nighttime, remove your casual layers and amp up the glam with strategic accessories and bolder choices.
Styling tips for evening:
- Add statement accessories: Think chandelier earrings, a bold clutch, or a metallic belt.
- Switch your shoes: Swap your flats or boots for strappy heels or sleek pumps.
- Update your makeup: A bold lip or a smokey eye can instantly take your look from casual to glam.
- Toss on a tailored coat or faux fur jacket for an elevated evening touch.
Outfit Example: Retrofête Slip Dress from Day to Night
Day Look:
- Retrofête champagne satin slip dress
- White sneakers
- Cropped denim jacket
- Gold hoop earrings
- Canvas tote
- Natural makeup with a tinted lip balm
Night Look:
- Remove jacket, add statement necklace
- Nude or metallic stilettos
- Clutch bag
- Bold red lip and winged eyeliner
- Optional: add a faux fur shawl or tailored coat
Tips for a Seamless Transition
- Carry a change of shoes and accessories in a tote or keep them in your car if you’re out all day.
- Plan your base look around versatility: If your dress works with both flats and heels, or layers well, you’re already halfway there.
- Invest in quality layering pieces that elevate or tone down a look without clashing with Retrofête’s luxe aesthetic.
Final Thoughts
With the right styling techniques, your favorite Retrofête dress doesn’t have to be reserved just for evening events. From elegant brunches to gallery openings and romantic dinners, transitioning from day to night is simple with a few smart swaps. The key is balancing high-glam elements with casual touches to maximize your wardrobe’s potential—and Retrofête’s stunning designs are perfect for doing just that.
