This week Rich and I have been invited to a work ‘do’ at Henley Regatta with his colleagues. I’m extremely excited – this is as close as I get these days to going OUT out – but at the same time stressed, ‘cos I’m suffering from Nothing to Wear syndrome. I’m hoping writing this post will solve this affliction, and maybe allow you to indulge in some #dirtyenabling at the same time, if you too have a dressy event this summer.

What on earth does one wear to Henley? I’ve been once before but it was a very relaxed affair: wine and sarnies on the banks of the river, and ending up at a marquee nightclub before watching the fireworks. This year, we’re going to be on a boat and the dress code is ‘Smart casual. For ladies, anything summery’. (If you ask me, this is most unhelpful. I don’t think it would go down too well if I rocked up in my H&M denim shorts and Havaianas).

Here are my options…

Henley Outfit Number 1

For the last couple of weeks I have had in mind the & Other Stories dress that I blogged about back in May. However you can imagine my consternation pre Love Island last night when Rich commented that I might want to wear something more ‘flowy’. What does that even MEAN? Is the Stories dress not flowy enough? Am I going to sink in the grass if I wear my favourite Aldo stilletos, or do I need a pair of wedges or block heels?

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  • & Other Stories Dress £49
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  • Topshop Mules £29
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Henley Outfit Number 2

After trawling through hundreds of dresses online, mid Love Island, this Topshop dress is my current favourite contender. Again, questions abound (answers on a postcard please). Am I going to die of heat if I wear it on Thursday? (It’s made of viscose). Why is it called a backless dress when it clearly has a back in the pics? Am I going to order it, only to have to return it for fear of flashing too much flesh?

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  • Topshop Maxi £150
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  • Topshop Tote £30
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Henley Outfit Number 3

Now this Stories dress would be a contender if I could guarantee that it would turn up in time. It looks so light and floaty and summery and ethereal. If I was feeling brave I’d clash it with these leopard print sandals, or if I was playing it safe, I’d pair with colour-match heels or nude flats. Either way, I’d add a black bag to downplay the cutesiness of the cherries.

  • Topshop Sandals £46
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  • Topshop Bag £27
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  • & Other Stories Midi £59
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Let me know which of the outfits you would go for, or if you’ve seen any other fabulous frocks suitable for Henley. Have you got any weddings, summer parties or posh events coming up and what will you be wearing?