Karen Millen dress is perfect for the races and weddings

Spring and summer are within sight, and with that comes an array of seasonal events, including the races and weddings. If you’re looking for a piece that would work just as well for a day at the horses as it would at a wedding, we’ve found a gorgeous Karen Millen dress that ticks all the boxes.

If you’re lucky enough to be headed to one of the country’s biggest races – Cheltenham Festival starts on March 11 this year – you’ll probably be hunting for the perfect dress right now. The races have become huge fashion events, especially for those attending Ladies’ Days, which are a big part of the calendar at Royal Ascot, Epsom, Aintree and Doncaster racecourses (to name a few).

Having several formal events in one year can be expensive so our advice is to look for something that could work for multiple outings and where you could easily switch up the accessories to give it a different look. 

The elegant pastel blue Structured Tailored Pencil Midi Dress from Karen Millen is our top pick for occasion dressing this spring. You can save on the dress right now, too, as it’s currently reduced from £239 to £155.35 – but using Karen Millen’s current discount code, EXTRA15, cuts the price down to £137.04, including delivery – saving £102.

While the Karen Millen dress looks simple and classic at first, several details add shape and structure. The adjustable belt accentuates the waist, while the peplum detail skims over the hips, which could help create a flattering hourglass shape. The envelope neckline leaves room for jewellery and is a softer alternative to a square or round neckline, showing off the decolletage.

The dress comes in sizes six to 16, and it can also be bought in black, which could be more suitable for black tie events. If you’re looking for a wider size range, Karen Millen also has a plus-size range, including various occasion dresses.

Most racing events have relaxed their rules in the past few years, and hats are no longer a requirement, but many attendees will still wear a formal outfit, such as a dress, suit, or jumpsuit. Royal Ascot has particular formal dress codes for each enclosure, with some stating the length of your dress should fall on or just below the knee and some prohibiting strapless styles. 

We’ve also found some other dresses that fit the requirements of most race days – below the knee, with shoulder straps or sleeves – just make sure you check the particulars as it differs from course to course. All of our pics would work for wedding guest outfits, too.

Florals are always big for spring, and this multicoloured dress offers a versatile take on the seasonal trend. The various colours used in the dress mean you have a few different options to pair with shoes and a bag. You could pick out one of the two shades of pink or blue for a cohesive look with a bag like the fuchsia Top Handle Pu Clutch Bag, also from Debenhams.

If you’re attending a wedding when the weather is warmer, the flowy fabric and floaty sleeves on this dress could help keep you cool. Plus, it gives you room to move around and make the most of the dance floor.

This Nobody’s Child dress is an elevated version of a classic midi dress with exaggerated puff sleeves. The main detail is on the back, with a low back and a large bow. 

Butter yellow is touted as one of the season’s biggest colour trends, and it’s a way to wear a pale, understated version of a bright colour. Yellow works for spring and summer, and you could wear this dress with all-yellow accessories – a yellow fascinator would be an excellent accompaniment for race day or as the mother of the bride.

A sleeveless dress is a must for hot weather – especially when attending an all-day occasion. A versatile outfit like the Lipsy Sleeveless Midi Dress can be worn for many events – a wedding, the races or even a graduation. If you prefer to invest in a dress that will last years in your wardrobe without going out of trend, opt for a plain colour like this emerald green tone instead of a pattern. 

Although the top is fitted, the dress appears comfortable and flattering to wear all day, as it has ruching detail at the waist, helping to skim over the tummy area and create the illusion of a flatter stomach.

Some of Karen Millen’s dresses have limited size options, but there is a plus-size range with sizes 18-24, including this striking pink lace dress. The high neck would suit an updo hairstyle, and despite the fitted silhouette, the lace overlay creates shape without looking restrictive.

There’s a slip underneath, so you get the effect of the lace with some skin showing through underneath, and this would be an excellent option for a Ladies’ Day. To let the dress do all the talking, you could pair it with simple strappy heels in black or gold, or if you prefer to make a statement, you could complement it with orange accessories.

To get the dress for £148.09 – a saving of £110.91, you’ll need to use the code EXTRA15 at checkout.

Bohemian prints suit certain weddings, and this Boden tea dress would work well if you’re a wedding guest at a countryside or coastal venue. It’s a slightly more casual option but could also be adapted for so many different occasions, including on holiday or even layered up with a suede jacket and boots for cool spring evenings.

The flared sleeves and side pockets make for comfortable wear, and with so many colours in the pattern, there are many styling options – so you may be able to use accessories you already have.