What’s the best part about receiving a party invite? Getting dressed up, of course. But, let’s be honest: parties can be one of the hardest briefs to dress for. A good soirée is an opportunity to be daring with your look, or don something sultry that wouldn’t exactly feel at home during the daytime. That being said, if you plan to spend the night dancing the night away, you want to look alluring yet comfortable, right?
Next time you’re in need of some sartorial inspiration for your Saturday night, look no further than Mzansi’s turntable sensation, Uncle Waffles. The BET award-nominated DJ and producer has undeniably nailed the art of the risqué party look, with her netted and naked dresses always incorporating the perfect blend of sexiness and practicality. From under-boob crop tops to bodycon dresses with sexy silhouettes – Waffles’ risque outfits are nothing short of a masterclass in party dressing.
In the same vein, we’ve gathered some of the star’s best risque ensembles, as well as a list of similar items that you can shop to recreate the stunning looks.
The Classic LBD
The secret to successful soirée dressing? Why, the best little black dresses (LBD), of course. When the contents of half of your closet are on the floor, and you’re already five minutes behind schedule, a little black dress will be your Hail Mary that rarely (read never) fails. Exuding peak risque style, Uncle Waffles was out and about in a sexy open-back LBD with triangular sides. The “Tanzania” hit-maker accessorised the alluring silhouette with a bright-coloured fluffy hat – one of her popular signatures.
ZARA STRAPLESS MINI DRESS
769, 00 ZAR
Few other clothing items can transfigure your style into a put-together, head-turning look like a simple silhouette of a solid-coloured LBD can. Luckily, an LBD is an all-in-one-outfit formula that almost always guarantees your spot on the best-dressed guest list.
Resurgence of the Catsuit
Behold! The catsuit. Not to be confused with a bodysuit or plain old jumpsuit, the all-in-one garment is equally skin-tight but covers the entire body (typically feet to neck). Giving the popular trend a risque twist, Uncle Waffles adorned an alluring tie-dyed, grey and white catsuit with an open back. Additionally, the ensemble boasts cutout details on the upper thigh, giving us fashion girl and “best dressed in the club” simultaneously.
ZANDO Easy Curves Catsuit With Mesh Inserts – Navy
899, 00 ZAR
With efforts towards a more sustainable capsule wardrobe, wearing a neutral-coloured catsuit as a layering base makes options far more versatile. By throwing a blazer or a mini wrap skirt on top, it’ll instantly become a way less intimidating piece. Regardless of how you wear yours, the catsuit has always been boundary-pushing, with inseparable links to inclusivity and sexuality. Whether you opt for patterns, denim, neon, or all-black, the catsuit remains synonymous with a sense of strength and power, partly due to its risque appeal.
Schoolcore Waffles
If you’re tired of plaid miniskirts, you’re going to love Uncle Waffles’ take on the maxi skirt. Envisioning schoolcore, the international DJ rocked a cropped, white long-sleeved white shirt with a black tie, as well as a maxi black and red check shirt. Notorious for her risque style, Waffles shows some skin with the help of the skirt’s elongated side slit.
COTTON ON Cropped dad shirt – white
239, 00 ZAR
VELVET Ring detail column skirt with slit
419, 00 ZAR
The maxi skirt is an effortless way to elevate your party look, simply because of its stunning silhouette. Match the closet staple with a mesh top, slingback pumps, mini tote bag, and Viola! A stunning look.
Denim Delirium
Pairing denim with more denim is an easy way to take the utilitarian classic into trend territory, and create elevated looks to wear for girls’ night. Embodying the daring aesthetics of video vixens back in the 90s and early 00s, Uncle Waffles wore a denim bralette (a signature staple for the Amapiano starlet), as well as matching denim jeans.
Redbat Women’s Medium Wash Denim Crop Top
99, 00 ZAR
COTTON ON Curvy Stretch Bootleg Flare Jeans
679, 00 ZAR
The denim-on-denim look dominated fashion runways both locally and internationally, with designers reinventing the classic fabric through various fashion ensembles. With that said, there are many ways to style the trend for your party outfit. You can add a dash of chic by wearing a pair of strappy heels, or keep it casual with classic all-white sneakers.
Co-ord Season
As the invitations to spring soirées roll in, sometimes a one-and-done party dress just won’t do. Think beyond the minis and midis and opt for a matching two-piece set that feels just as fun as it is stylish. For example, Uncle Waffles’ deep violet camp-esque co-ord. Risque in style, the crop top comprises string details in the bust area, nostalgic of Y2K fashion.
THE FIX Women’s Natural Macrame Co-ord Cami Top
199, 99 ZAR
Co-ords are inherently versatile, offering an effortless way to look put together. Furthermore, they cater to the modern penchant for minimalism, while also allowing a playful display of personal style. You can go with a polished, monochrome look for an elegant occasion or mix it up with bold prints and colours for a casual outing. Tis the season!