The Hewi Guide to a Stylish Social Season

Heading to the RHS Chelsea Flower Show, an afternoon christening or the Goodwood Festival of Speed? While perhaps not ‘groundbreaking’, you simply can’t go wrong with florals when it comes to elegant daytime events. Erdem’s painterly prints are perfect for cocktails on the lawn, while Zimmerman’s dainty blooms are a byword for botanical chic.

Polo is one of the sporting highlights of the social season, with the jewel in the crown being the Cartier Queen’s Cup Final, held at the Guards Polo Club in Windsor every year. Naturally, many guests pay homage to Cartier, the event’s sponsor; meanwhile polka dots have long been synonymous with polo-spectator-chic. Most important of all, opt for flats or wedges, as heels risk sinking into the freshly-mown grass and won’t serve well for the age-old polo tradition of ‘stomping the divots’

Whether or not you’re a sailing enthusiast, regattas are an integral part of the Great British Summer, ranging from relaxed races to the prestigious Henley Royal Regatta, a key fixture of the social season since 1839. While the Regatta Enclosure has a laidback dress code, the more formal Stewards’ Enclosure is stricter, requiring below-the-knee hemlines or trouser suits. If this date is already in your diary, we say take inspiration from Henley’s illustrious heritage with nautical-chic dresses, rowing blazers and boater hats.

Destination wedding dressing can be daunting, but the key is to read the invitation closely. A beach affair calls for fun prints, breezy fabrics and chunky heels – stilettos weren’t made for sand – while a more formal event is the perfect opportunity to embrace high-octane glamour – think slinky gowns in bold hues, statement jewels and eye-catching accessories.

Nail-biting games, strawberries and cream and plenty of Pimm’s – nothing quite captures the essence of British summertime like Wimbledon. Alongside the sport itself, this iconic event is renowned for its elegant court-side fashion, with guests frequently tapping into Wimbledon’s famous all-white rule for players. For a winning look, opt for pristine preppy-chic; crisp cotton separates, tonal accessories (small bags are best for the narrow stands) and low heels to see you comfortably through the day.

From day festivals in the city to camping in the countryside, anything goes when it comes to festival dressing, as long as you bear comfort and practicality in mind. Taking place around a lake, Wilderness was made for bright swimwear and dreamy sundresses, while Glastonbury is synonymous with Hunter Wellingtons and Barbour jackets. Whether you opt for rock-chic, rave wear, bohemian or countrycore – don’t forget your sunglasses, a hat and a rain-proof jacket to combat the unpredictable British weather – in style of course.