Timeless elegance – courtesy of Carolina Herrera

It’s a feeling we’re all familiar with, Christmas engagements have given way to a slew of wedding invitations, and, while it’s thrilling to be invited to be a part of someone’s big day, it also begs the question – what to wear? Whether it’s an understated celebration, beachside ceremony or a lavish black-tie affair, one label you can always count on for stunning occasion wear is, of course, Carolina Herrera.

Before founding her eponymous label in 1981, Herrera was already a regular fixture on best-dressed lists the world over, thanks to her faultless style. Frequenting Studio 54 and photographed by Andy Warhol, Herrera was at the center of the New York social scene, and it was actually at the behest of her friend, Diana Vreeland, then editor-in-chief of Vogue, that she founded her own fashion house. Imbued with Herrera’s signature élan and elegance, the clothes were a hit from the off, appealing to the jet-set crowd she was a part of; in fact, one of Herrera’s earliest customers was none other than style icon Jacqueline Onassis.

Over the years, the label became a byword for sartorial excellence, thanks to the deft way Herrera balanced personality with propriety – her pieces were always utterly appropriate yet brimming with joie de vivre. Therefore, it was with heavy hearts that the world learned, in 2018, after decades at the helm, that Herrera was stepping down as creative director. However, the blow was softened when it emerged that Herrera herself had handpicked a worthy successor. Enter, Wes Gordon, the prodigiously talented designer who, after founding his own label in 2009, quickly went on to dress some of the most discerning women in the world, including then First Lady Michelle Obama, who was also a fan of Herrera’s. Known for his timely yet timeless aesthetic, during his time at Carolina Herrera, Gordon has also displayed his mastery of maximalist style; and, unsurprisingly, his SS20 collection is no exception.

Inspired by the botanical phenomenon known as the California super bloom, riotous floral prints and eye-popping colors are recurrent themes throughout the collection, while dramatic silhouettes and billowing cuts also pay homage to organic forms found in nature. However, the magic of Gordon’s designs is that they are grounded not in fantasy, but reality. These are wearable pieces designed with modern women, and their diaries, in mind. This inclusive approach is evidenced by the multi-faceted women who wear his designs, including Hollywood stars such as Yara Shahidi, Rachel Brosnahan and Zoey Deutch.

Take one of this season’s standout pieces, a sculptural orange prom dress. Not only is it a failsafe choice for a cocktail party uptown, it would also make the perfect after-dark option for a destination wedding. The same is true of a floral print midi dress with dramatic puffed sleeves or a scarlet shirt dress, which blends practicality and prettiness in the form of a gargantuan ruffle. If it’s an effortless day-to-night look you’re after, try a floral skirt and crisp white shirt or one-shouldered dress, both options work just as well for leisurely days spent gallery-hopping as they do for balmy summer evenings. Similarly, a waist-cinching polka-dot dress makes for a faultless outfit suitable for all manner of occasions.

Although the glamour of Gordon’s designs belie their wearability, it is impossible to discuss the allure of Carolina Herrera without talking about show-stopping gowns, the breathtaking pieces for which the house is both beloved and renowned. From a classic ballgown crafted from black tulle to a classic column dress cast in metallic silk (or even a minidress festooned with a giant bow and train), no matter what occasion you’re dressing for – be it a ball, a wedding or a gala dinner – these one-of-a-kind pieces come with best-dressed-guest guaranteed.