] It’s ironic really — the very things designed to simplify the process when it comes to dressing for an event can actually make the whole thing more difficult. Yes, dress codes can be universally confusing. Cocktail might mean short dresses and stilettos to some, floor-grazing slips to others. Semi formal may require a tie, but if the host is more laidback, it also may not. And let’s not start on smart casual. Hosts are increasingly doing away with dress codes, but there’s still a subtle art to selecting an outfit that hits the right notes.

When the invites begin to trickle in for garden parties, spring weddings, Christmas celebrations and everything else the festive season brings, the prospect of finding the right look for each can be stressful. To start your party season off in fine form, we’ve curated a foolproof guide to dressing for any spring social occasion.

The Garden Party

The vibe: Hugo spritzes in your fancy friend’s backyard on a Saturday afternoon. Dainty canapés, easy-listening jazz and wildflower posies on tables.

The formula: A floaty dress + strappy flat sandals + a basket bag

The dress: Scanlan Theodore’s rose-patterned silk halter neck or Manning Cartell’s Marigold cowl-neck slip.

$800 from Scanlan Theodore, Level 1 $599 from Manning Cartell, Level 1

The Spring Wedding

The vibe: An outdoor ceremony in the Botanic Gardens, with a flower-filled reception in the Glass House.

The formula: A statement dress in a pastel hue + metallic heels + a subtle clutch

The dress: Acler’s elegant Jeffries Maxi Dress in cornflower blue or Rachel Gilbert’s show-stopping Nya Gown.

$599 from Acler, Level 1 $2390 from Rachel Gilbert, Level 1

The Work Christmas Party

The vibe: Drinks on the rooftop at the Strand Hotel in Darlinghurst. Starts sophisticated, might end with karaoke.

The formula: A sleek midi + chunky jewellery + a fun crossbody

The dress: P.Johnson Femme’s sleek and simple Chelsea mini dress or Viktoria & Woods’ Goldmine dress.

$750 from P.Johnson Femme, Level 1 $650 from Viktoria and Woods, Level 1

The Long Lunch With Friends

The vibe: A table overlooking the marina at Catalina, Rose Bay. Champagne is flowing, and the selfies are on point.

The formula: A fun and flirty mini + special occasion heels + an oversized clutch tucked under the arm

The dress: Rebecca Vallance’s Barbie-inspired, bow-trimmed Jocelyn mini or Camilla and Marc’s chic bridal-coded Petra mini.

$699 from Rebecca Vallance, Level 1 $550 from Camilla and Marc, Level 1