Last-minute plans: How to throw together a chic outfit in 24 hours or less

With lockdown ending in the UK, everyone is looking forward to socialising in person again over the summer. Many find themselves in the happy situation of being inundated with opportunities to go out to the pub, for meals and more with friends and family. 

As the public must still stick to the rule of six, socialising has to be spread out. As a result, there are likely to be a lot of last-minute plans, and it’ll be necessary to throw together a chic outfit with hours to spare. Here are some of our top tips for throwing together a fresh, stylish outfit in just 24 hours. 

Wardrobe review

It’s a good idea to start this ASAP. Having the right staple items in the wardrobe can be invaluable to give plenty of options to work with at short notice. It helps to consider the things already owned, and which cuts and styles suit the wearer best – and the anything that’s no longer being worn can be donated. It may streamline the experience to invest in timeless, high-quality items such as blue jeans, plain white tees and pencil skirts. 

Accessorising well 

Accessories can make any outfit look and feel completely different. With a timeless base of a white t-shirt, well-fitting jeans and leather ankle boots, layered necklaces can be added for a boho-chic look, or perhaps a tattoo choker for a retro feel – or simple drop earrings for elegance. 

It may be useful to have a review of the accessories at home to decide which will pair well with various outfits. Using different accessories to put new twists on the same or similar outfit is one of the simplest ways to achieve different looks quickly and easily. 

Choosing the right retailers

The choice of retailer should come down to quality and ease of delivery. When it’s hard to find something to wear for an event, choosing a retailer that can provide clothes with next day delivery is essential. The Next Day Delivery website provides a comprehensive list of online retailers with next day delivery services and their cut off points, making it simple and easy to choose the online shop that’ll send the clothes needed ASAP. 

Pampering

One of the best ways to look fabulous is by feeling amazing. Before heading off for an event it’s a great idea to have a pampering session with facials, hair masks or whatever is most likely to make a person feel like a million dollars. 

Taking time for a hair blow out, makeup and the process of getting dressed can help anyone arrive at an event glowing and radiant. 

Inspiration 

Another way to choose a new outfit from one’s current wardrobe is by looking online for inspiration. It’s worth considering a search on Instagram or Pinterest for fashion ideas for different events like an evening in the pub or picnic in the park. 

Fashionistas could also make a list of different items in the wardrobe in order to be more specific in Internet searches – for instance, searching for outfit ideas for a floral midi dress. It’s then easy to review the options and pair items that are inspiring with clothes already owned. 

The editorial unit