Your Guide to the Perfect Christmas Event Dress
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Your Guide to the Perfect Christmas Event Dress
The festive season is upon us, bringing with it a wonderful whirlwind of Christmas parties, long lunches, and year-end celebrations. It’s a time for sparkle, joy, and creating beautiful memories. Of course, every special occasion calls for an equally special outfit. Finding that perfect dress—one that feels festive, keeps you cool in the summer heat, and makes you feel incredible—is all part of the fun.
This guide is here to help you navigate the world of designer dresses to find your ideal match for every event on your calendar. From vibrant colours that pop in the sunshine to flowing styles that are perfect for a warm evening, we’ll explore the best dresses to hire for a stylish and comfortable Christmas
Embrace the Colours of a Kiwi Christmas
Forget the heavy velvets and dark tones of a winter Christmas. A summer celebration is all about embracing bright, joyful, and sophisticated colours that reflect the season. When choosing your dress, think about the colours that make you feel confident and festive.

Classic Red and Green, Reimagined
Red and green are the quintessential Christmas colours, but for a summer event, you can give them a fresh twist. Instead of deep, heavy shades, opt for brighter and more vibrant versions. A stunning scarlet or cherry red in a lightweight fabric looks incredible for an evening bbq or party. Similarly, an olive or jade green maxi dress can be a showstopper, offering a nod to tradition while feeling modern and chic. These bold colours make a statement and look fantastic in photos.
Summer Brights and Festive Shimmer
Nothing says celebration quite like a pop of colour. Think fuchsia, blue, or a sunny yellow. These shades are full of energy and perfect for daytime events like a Christmas brunch or a garden party. They capture the joyful spirit of the season and are a fantastic way to stand out.
For evening events, a touch of metallic is always a brilliant choice. A flowing gown with gold or silver thread running through it can catch the light beautifully, adding a touch of glamour without being overpowering. Look for dresses with subtle sequin details or in fabrics with a natural sheen to give you that festive glow.
Elegant Pastels and Crisp Whites
For a more understated yet equally beautiful look, consider soft pastels or a classic white dress. A flowing maxi in a blush pink, soft lavender, or baby blue is romantic and elegant, ideal for a more formal Christmas dinner or a daytime gathering. White is another fantastic option for summer. A crisp white long dress is effortlessly chic and acts as a perfect canvas for bold accessories. It reflects the sun, keeping you cool while ensuring you look polished and put-together.
Style and Silhouette: Staying Cool and Chic
The key to a perfect summer Christmas outfit is finding a style that is both elegant and comfortable. With the New Zealand sun shining, a long, flowing dress is the ideal choice. It offers coverage and sophistication while allowing for airflow to keep you cool.

The Flowing Maxi Dress
The maxi dress is the undisputed hero of summer event dressing. Its long, sweeping silhouette is universally flattering and effortlessly elegant. Look for styles made from lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, or silk blends. These materials feel soft against the skin and won't leave you feeling overheated during a long afternoon of celebrating. A maxi with a tiered skirt or delicate ruffles adds a touch of playful movement, perfect for dancing the night away.
Slips and A-Line Cuts
A simple silk slip dress in a maxi length is the epitome of minimalist chic. It drapes beautifully over the body and feels incredibly light and airy. You can dress it up with statement jewellery and heels for an evening party or pair it with elegant sandals for a more relaxed daytime event.
An A-line silhouette is another fantastic choice for staying cool. A dress that is fitted at the bodice and then gently flares out from the waist allows for plenty of movement and doesn't cling to the body. This timeless style is comfortable, flattering for many body types, and always looks sophisticated.
Details that Make a Difference
Look for details that enhance both the style and comfort of the dress. Features like adjustable spaghetti straps allow you to get the perfect fit, while a dress with a side split can add a touch of modern allure and improve ventilation. Cut-out details at the back or waist are also on-trend and provide another way to stay cool while adding a fashionable edge to your look.
Find Your Dream Dress at Runway Ready
Why buy a designer dress for a one-off event when you can hire one for a fraction of the cost? At Runway Ready, we have a curated collection of stunning long dresses from top designers, perfect for all your Christmas and holiday events. Hiring allows you to wear a beautiful, high-quality gown without the long-term commitment.

Our collection is available for hire right over the holiday period, so you can look your best for Christmas Day, Boxing Day Races, New Year's Eve, and everything in between. We make it easy to find your perfect fit. You can browse our collection online, and we'll post your chosen dress directly to you, anywhere in New Zealand.
If you'd prefer to try before you hire, we invite you to book a private appointment at our beautiful garden studio. You can explore our collection in a relaxed and friendly setting, ensuring you find the dress that makes you feel absolutely amazing.
This festive season, let us help you find the perfect dress to celebrate in style. Embrace the joy of dressing up, make unforgettable memories, and shine bright at every event.