Occasion dresses for weddings and celebrations

When choosing wedding guest dresses, check the invitation and venue first. A midi or short dress with suitable coverage can work for daytime celebrations; a long dress is an option for a formal evening reception. Check the hem against the terrain, and consider a wrap for a church ceremony.

Bridesmaids and mothers of the couple may want to agree on colours before shopping. Browse outfits by occasion and role to focus your search, including milestone birthdays and other special celebrations.

Compare maxi, midi, short and trouser styles

A fluid dress creates a flowing line, while a flared skirt gives more room around the hips. A sheath follows the body more closely; a mermaid silhouette stays fitted before widening towards the hem. Sit down and take a step up when trying either shape.

Prefer trousers? Compare a suit or coordinated separates with an elegant jumpsuit. Separate pieces offer different styling options, while a jumpsuit also needs to fit your torso length. Check which pieces are included when a photograph shows a complete outfit. Explore dress shapes and trouser alternatives to narrow your choices.

Simple elegance or a statement detail

For understated occasion dresses, look closely at drape, seams and proportions. A plain colour and a considered neckline can give the outfit its character. If you hope to wear it again, picture it with different shoes and a more relaxed jacket before buying.

For a distinctive look, choose a feature you want to highlight: draping, an open back or lace. Browse occasion dresses by style and keep surrounding accessories simple enough for that detail to stand out.

Choose fit and support around your needs

Compare your bust, waist and hip measurements with the information for the garment. For more room around the waist, consider fluid shapes or draping before simply sizing up. Explore the dedicated curvy occasionwear section as another route through the collection.

At a fitting, raise your arms, sit down and check the neckline, sleeves and slit. Wear your intended underwear to assess support and visible seams, especially with an open back or fitted fabric. Choosing occasion dresses in your fifties or sixties starts with the same priorities: your comfort, preferences and event.

Match fabrics, colours and accessories to the season

For summer events, check composition and lining as well as the outer fabric: chiffon and georgette can have several layers. Compare the sheen and structure of satin and taffeta while moving. In cooler weather, try your coat over the sleeves too.

Sage, pale blue or floral prints can suggest a daytime palette; navy and burgundy offer evening options. At weddings, generally avoid white and ivory unless the couple requests otherwise. Choose occasionwear accessories that pick up a colour in the dress.

Shop online or visit Strabello® in Brugherio

Before ordering occasion dresses online, compare front and back photographs, descriptions and measurements. For an affordable outfit, include shoes, underwear and possible alterations in your budget. Check delivery information and return conditions for your order, allowing time to try everything together.

You can also try dresses at Strabello® in Brugherio, Italy, at via Daniele Manin 48. Contact the store with your preferred reference, size and colour to check the style before visiting. Bring your event shoes to assess the hem.

Before you choose

Can a lace or embroidered dress be shortened?

It depends on the border, pattern and layers. Ask a dressmaker to assess it before buying on that assumption: shortening may change the proportions and involve an additional cost.