Photos: Instagram/Matchesfashion, liujoglobal
We can’t emphasise enough the importance of dressing to impress when it comes to important functions. Nothing’s more embarrassing than showing up in a terrible outfit.
If you’re having a fashion crisis and you can’t find that perfect number that you have in mind, don’t fret. We’ve come up with a curated list of both online and offline stores to shop at or rent an outfit for those fantastic, fabulous and formal functions.
1. Zalora
If you’re looking for a perfect evening dress that’s friendly to your wallet, there’s only one destination that we can think of: and that’s Zalora. Founded in 2012, this Singapore-based online fashion retailer carries a wide range of clothes that’s not limited to your everyday, casual wear.
In fact, they do have a specific tab that’s catered for evening dresses. There, you’ll be able to find event-worthy gowns from high-street brands such as Forever New, Missguided and Boohoo.
Price range: $9.90 to $579
https://www.zalora.sg/women/clothing/evening-dresses/
2. Net-a-Porter
We’re no strangers to this online powerhouse: it has 19 years (and counting) worth of experience in catering luxury retail to a global audience. Nonetheless, this renowned website has an array of gowns and garbs catered specifically for evening/events. From a gold glitter jumpsuit from Dundas to a layered tulle dress by Marchesa Notte, we’re positive that you’ll be able to find one that you’d fancy.
Can’t find it? The “Evening” category is right under their “Clothing” tab.
Price range: US$125 (about S$173.59) to US$6,326 (about S$8,784.98)
3. Pois
If you’re searching for a show-stopping, jaw-dropping outfit for a very important function, Pois will definitely not disappoint. Founded in 1974, this multi-label luxury boutique has been a go-to store for professionals and socialites for high-end, opulent gowns. There, you’ll be able to find designer labels such as Zuhair Murad, Dice Kayek and Monique Lhuillier.
Price range: $659 to $4,399
Pois is at Paragon, 290 Orchard Road, #03-06/07, Singapore 238859.
ALSO READ: BEST DRESSED GUESTS: HER WORLD WOMAN OF THE YEAR 2018
4. Matchesfashion
Yet another online retail haven that we’re fans of is Matchesfashion. This London-based global retail luxury powerhouse has an “Edit” section where they shortlist a couple of fashion essentials that are tailored to specific occasions. Think gift guides, athleisure and even classic wardrobe pieces.
Parked right under their “Clothing” tab, you’ll be able to find clothes and fine jewellery from a variety of designer labels (think Christopher Kane and Balmain) for different types of functions, such as weddings and cocktail parties, in their “The Event Dressing Edit” section.
Price range: US$54 (about S$74.98) to US$25,843 (about S$35,883.26)
5. Liu Jo
Liu Jo’s all about lace, leather and lamé fashioned in sleek Italian cuts, so this store is is definitely a must-visit for those who are into rock ‘n’ roll style.
Founded in 1995 in Carpi, Italy, you’ll be able to find contemporary cocktail dresses and long-line gowns that are feminine, yet edgy. If you’re not into dresses, they do have power suits that’s perfect for the power woman.
Price range: Call +65 6235 2538 for more information.
Liu Jo is at Paragon, 290 Orchard Rd, #02-49, Singapore 238859.
6. Style Lease
Not into splurging on a four-digit dress just for a night? Don’t worry, because that’s what rental services are for. And yes, you heard us right. You’re able to rent evening frocks from over 50 brands at Style Lease. These labels include high-end designer brands like Vera Wang, Halston Heritage and Peggy Hartanto. Rental prices start from $20.
If you’re looking for something that’s more extravagant, hop on over to their “Gala” section (located under their “Occasions” tab) to find luxurious gowns.
Price range: $20 to $79
7. Covetella
Say goodbye to ill-fitting dresses, because what we love most about Covetella is that they’d offer fitting services before you’d rent them. Sounds perfect.
Founded by Carol Chen who aims to give every woman an opportunity to be “Cinderella”, this rental boutique carries over 1,000 designer gowns and jewellery — you’ll be spoilt for choices.
P/S: Do remember to book a fitting on their website prior to visiting their studio.
Price range: $60 to $450
Covetella is at 201 Henderson Rd, #04-08, Singapore 159545. www.covetella.com
8. Style Theory
Do you often find yourself in a situation where you simply can’t settle for just a dress? Because we do, and at times we’re still torn between three (sometimes more) outfits when we’re an hour away from our important function. Well, if you’re one who’s indecisive just like us, Style Theory is your go-to for designer dresses.
Why Style Theory? This e-commerce rental service allows you to rent three or more dresses at once, depending on the subscription plan that you’ve chosen. To rent three pieces per month, it’ll cost you $69/month. If you’d need more than just three (because honestly, who stops at there?), opt for their “Pro” plan, where you’ll be able to rent up to 20 pieces per month (with five at a time) at $179/month.
Price range: $69 to $179
ALSO READ: SHOPPING FOR A PARTY DRESS THIS CHRISTMAS? HERE’S HOW TO FIND ONE ACCORDING TO YOUR BODY TYPE