Happy & glorious GLAMOUR!
It’s almost summer occasion season and, from the sweetest palette of lilac, peony and daffodil to the high drama of cascading ruffles and glistening floor-length gowns, there are majestic looks for every event. Enjoy!
DRESSED TO FRILL
Live your inner Sex And The City moment with an unforgettable Sarah Jessica Parker-style dress that will turn heads with every twist and twirl. Granted, not the cheapest gown in town, but with such exquisite detailing, swathes of tulle and craftsmanship you’d find on a Paris catwalk, this fabulous fairy-tale frock is a fraction of the price you’d find in a designer collection. Stick to cute pumps rather than heels, to keep this fantasy dress down to earth.
Dress, £328, xs-xl, Anthropologie
SHEER DELIGHT
Play peek-a-boo with fashion’s favourite conceal-and-reveal party piece, the see-through dress. You’d be forgiven for quaking at the thought of wearing anything transparent, but think barely there, not naked! A demure neckline and longer length will balance out the daringness, making subtly suggestive gauzy sheers and chiffons feel romantic and elegant. Go tonal: wearing one colour head to toe keeps things grown-up and sophisticated.
Dress, £130, s-l, Anthropologie. Hat, £140, Gant. Shoes, £249, 3-8, Pretty Ballerinas
MAX OUT
When it comes to event dressing, nothing beats a full-on floaty maxi to make great shapes on the dancefloor. Joyful painterly prints strike the elusive balance between dressy and fun, and can work perfectly for all sorts of occasions. But don’t consign yours to the closet after its moment in the spotlight – when the party’s over, pack it in your suitcase and take it on holiday. A basket bag, leather sliders and some chic sunnies are all you need to breathe new life into your dream dress.
Dress, £249, 8-18, Phase Eight. Sandals, £75, 4-9, Monsoon
PYJAMA PARTY
Not a dress girl? You can still have fun at the party with a pair of trophy trousers. For all-day (and night) comfort, slip into a pair of heavenly silky pyjama-style bottoms with a lavish trim; beautiful feathery fringing adds to the fun and frivolity. A simple, classic blouse will make these ‘wowzer’ trousers feel refined.
Blouse, £290, 6-16, Cefinn. Trousers, £145, 6-16, Kitri. Bag, £40, Accessorize
DARLING BUDS OF MAY
Need a winning look for race day? Freshly picked watercolour florals make a quieter statement than bold blooms, but because they have an abstract feel, they’re less likely to date. We’re obsessed with the sleeves on this high-street hero – the fluttery, fluted cuffs give the illusion of long, lean arms and will balance the shorter hemline. This is the power of a great sleeve! Finish with feathers in the hair rather than more flowers; it ensures
