What do you wear when you don’t know what to wear? The answer is, almost invariably, a dress. With such a diverse array of different styles and shapes to choose from, there’s one to suit every type of occasion, from a casual weekend away to a glamorous red carpet event. And, there is no other garment that has the power to so effortlessly and instantly have you looking fabulous and feeling like a million dollars the moment it’s slipped on.
To ensure you’re never caught short, here are five beautiful dresses to make sure you have in your wardrobe so that there’s always something to throw on for a last minute event, and each one promises to steal the show for all the right reasons.
The classic little black dress (LBD)
The little black dress is a timeless piece and a staple in every capsule wardrobe. Having gained iconic status back in the 1920s when the concept was first introduced by renowned high-end fashion designer Coco Chanel, this chic and elegant garment is a versatile minimalist piece that demonstrates just how impactful simplicity can be.
Its beauty lies in the fact that it can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion, and whether it’s a simple mini dress or an elegant lace gown, it can be styled to suit. For casual off-duty cool, just add trainers and a denim jacket – or for next level evening glamour, accessorise with opulent gold jewellery, killer heels and a clutch.
The statement cocktail dress
For sophisticated events, cocktail parties, or fine dining dinners, a statement cocktail dress is the ultimate go to, and in a departure from the simplicity we love about the LBD, offers the chance to make a bolder statement with a more creative look.
Rich jewel tones like amethyst, sapphire and emerald are the perfect choice for this type of soirée. Look for embellishments like embroidery, beading and even sequins for a dramatic and show-stopping look that will ensure you light up any room. Keep the rest of your ensemble, sticking to black, white or brown shoes and accessories depending on the colour of your chosen cocktail dress to allow it to do all the talking.
The classic wrap dress
When it comes to effortless and timeless elegance, few dresses rival the wrap dress. A style that has been around since the 1970s when it was first introduced by esteemed fashion designer Diane Von Fürstenburg, it has gone on to become an enduring favourite for women of all ages, shapes and sizes, with much of its appeal lying in its impressive ability to create a curvy and cinched silhouette. When it comes to flattering dress styles, it really doesn’t get much better, nipping you in at the waist for a snatched look that offers a welcome confidence boost.
Perfect for a sophisticated brunch, a business luncheon, or a casual dinner at a luxury resort, sumptuous fabrics like silk or velvet add an extra touch of glamour and drape elegantly in all the right places, exuding an understated sense of glamour.
The tailored shirt dress
A tailored shirt dress is a simple piece that is perfect for when you don’t know exactly what you’re going to be doing but are keen to look stylish whatever the day may bring. Its structured yet relaxed silhouette will make you look effortlessly out together and it’s the perfect day-to-night transition piece. So, if you start out having a casual lunch or hitting the shops with friends only to find yourself heading to a lavish fine dining dinner date afterwards, you’ll be covered – just be sure to take along some jewellery and accessories to add some last minute glamour should the opportunity arise.
Look out for styles with subtle pleats, button detailing, or waist-cinching belts and pair with simple designer flats or a classic pair of pumps for a chic look that’s as practical as it is refined.
The elegant evening gown
Formal events like black-tie affairs and red-carpet occasions require a particularly show-stopping type of dress, and the elegant evening gown is the kind of ensemble you’ll look forward to having the chance to wear all year until the moment finally arrives.
A floor-length gown crafted from luxurious fabrics like satin, silk, or tulle give off a real sense of grandeur. Try on an array of different designs and shapes to find out which best flatter your body shape and expresses your personal style – whether it’s a sleek, minimalist column dress or a voluminous ball gown with a dramatic silhouette – and opt for a stunning couture gown adorned with intricate lace, crystals, or embroidery for an endless stream of compliments guaranteed.
