Dress for the occasion or for the weather?

[CheerfulBunny]

Just curious really - do you generally dress for the occasion you're attending, regardless of weather conditions or is it better to be sensible/comfortable? For context, I was at a big sporting event today where I'd say the majority of women were wearing summery dresses, high heeled sandals and hats, despite the dire weather forecast which turned out to be completely accurate - torrential rain all day pretty much. I'd agonised over the forecast all week and ended up in a trench coat and trousers with ballet shoes but honestly felt a bit disappointed I didn't go with the dress I'd planned for originally.

What would you do?

For a mainly outdoor event it has to be for the weather. Summery clothes hats and heels look terrible if rained on so there's no point. If it's indoors then for the event.

For the weather.

In my head I look like this.

In reality I look like this.

@Papernotplastic 😄

I always try to design an outfit that deals with both the weather and the occasion. I tailor my own clothes so for the kind of event you describe I’d wear a dress with smart summer coat - co-ordinated or matching, I mean. Not just a random coat!

I have a gorgeous lined linen coat I made from a 50s vintage pattern, in a fabric that matches a modern shift dress. The coat is quite like a cocoon design so it’s big and warm (for summer). Leather sling backs and I’m ready

It takes me ages to make my clothes but it means it’s much easier to get the outfit right.

It's a shame when the weather is bad but looking ill suited for the conditions doesn't look very stylish imo. Not to mention you can end up cold and miserable. Bright garish colours and fake tan dont look right on a grey day. So it's got to be for the weather if you're going to be outside a lot.

@Papernotplastic that’s genius! 😂

@FarEast That sounds amazing and would be a treat to wear.
@TheOGCCL Totally agree. I think when you go to an 'occasion' you want to feel a bit special so maybe people just throw caution to the wind and think oh well, I'll just get a bit cold and wet then! Based on what i saw, there will have been a few pairs of strappy sandals and soggy fascinators consigned to the bin after Saturday

I live in Manchester, and have specific outfits for “looking nice and summery when it’s cold and wet”.