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The road to the perfect summer bash is one ridden with potholes.
How to avoid a fashion faux pas? Or cater for the drinkers and non-drinkers with perfect aplomb? Our experts are at the ready, with their golden rules to survive the sunny season.
5 rules to throw the perfect summer party, by Opus 11’s Josh Bradshaw and Charlie Karlsen
Always have Rosé and tequila on ice
One of our signature summer cocktails is a tequila, rosé champagne, tonic, lemon affair.
Your soft cocktail game has to be as good as your cocktail game
Try a white peach, apricot and thyme soda.
Classic gelato is out, ice cream sandwiches are in
We’ve just created a strawberry and balsamic fusion which is sensational.
Colour is key
Butter lemon in your candles, single stem peach peonies, and yellow courgette and radicchio in your salads. A linen napkin and charger plate will elevate any occasion.
Devil’s in the detail
Spritz the room, light the candles and get Gabriels’ ‘Angels and Queens’ album playing. Always make sure you bring the energy from the minute your guests step into the room.
How to be the best dressed at the garden party, by celebrity stylist Georgia Medley
Try a white dress or co-ord
Nothing says summer staple like a chic, all-white ensemble or white, barrel-cut denim jeans paired with a plain white top.
Avoid racerback vests
Try a chic halter-neck instead, they’re so flattering around the neck, back and shoulders. Zara, Aritzia and the Australian brand Henne are the places to find them.
Wear those boat shoes
Yes, really. I recently purchased a backless pair of Timberland boat shoes and thought, is it crazy that I love them? But they are a high fashion hit.
Don’t be afraid of balloon pants
We’ve seen Pieter Mulier do them so well at Alaïa. It’s a collision of fashion and practicality.
The bubble effect
Much better than A-line skirts this summer. This season, it’s all about volume.
Steer clear of polka dots
They are everywhere already, and look set to become yet more ubiquitous as the summer season unravels. If you own one, of course make use, but expect to look similar to a fair few guests upon your arrival.
