What are the Aussies wearing for holiday parties?

ElleH

I will be in Australia with family & friends for the silly season as we call it. Most of it in Victoria which could be cold or hot but also in Brisbane which will be hot. I love that our holiday season is in the Summer. What should I pack/wear for parties & Christmas day?

13 years ago

Dressing

6 replies

Latest reply was from Lyn D.

Caro in Oz

Veteran

Depends on the party. Will it be a BBQ or more formal?

13 years ago

EmilyC15

Active Member

Hi from NZ. Are you able to bring three options? I'd suggest:

Cool weather trio of skinny pants/interesting top/neutral cardigan or blazer
A ravishing but non-sequined dress that goes with the cardigan or blazer
A casual dress that goes with the cardigan or blazer

That way you can mix and match depending on your hosts and the events. My impression of Victoria is that Melbourne is dressy. For Brisbane, expect heat, humidity, and the beach.

I saw lots of maxi dresses being worn in Sydney last year. Antipodean colors for summer in the stores are black, white, cream, hot orange, acid green, yellow, neon pink. (I can't make this up...) Cobalt and emerald are more wearable options I'm seeing. I'm from the US living down here and it's my experience that Antipodeans are edgier overall in their style - "preppy" looks out of place and stuffy.

If you want to do some shopping while you're there Cue is good for hourglass curves and cocktail dresses if you are under 5'5', and David Lawrence if you are over 5'5". Witchery and Country Road/Trenery are high street brands of good quality for more casual wear.

13 years ago

Deborah

Veteran

Elle be prepared for all seasons, particularly in Melbourne! Depends on the event really. From what I have seen maxi lengths are popular, floral jeans and pants have hit our shores. Summer in regional Vic is going to be hot!

13 years ago

ElleH

Veteran

Thanks Emily & Deborah. I remember oh too we'll Deborah... I grew up in Melbourne & now get to live in sunny California. I miss my family but not the weather.

Caro, I'm not sure what I might be invited to, besides Christmas lunch with family. I guess I need to be prepared for anything. I've lived away from there for 15 years so I don't remember what people wore. I would obviously dress differently now I'm 46.

I guess I was thinking of Angie's warm sweater & maxi skirt post & started thinking about how it's usually not freezing during our holiday events in Australia. I could bring a black shift or sheath, which is always a safe & versatile travel piece.

13 years ago

Sharon

Veteran

I have a few knee length short sleeve dresses in shiny fabrics that I wear to summer parties. They are plain enough to wear in the day, but can be dressed up with bling for night. Make sure what you wear is loose and cool. There is nothing worse than being hot and bothered at Christmas lunch.

13 years ago

Lyn D.

Veteran

Hi from Melbourne Elle.
I am seeing lots of bright colours in the stores at the moment, so if you bring something black, a colourful topper and accessories would be the go! At any rate you will need a light jacket of some sort for the cooler days, and covered shoes if it decides to rain.

13 years ago

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