Cross-front jersey dress

FROM: Principles

PRICE: £65

COMMENT: A flattering body-conscious dress in a thick stretchy fabric that pulls in and emphasises the waist with the cross-over pleating detail.

SUITS: Medium and curvy figures

KEY ACCESSORY: Patent strappy black platform, £70, Faith.


Lace detail cut-out dress

FROM: Next

PRICE: £40

COMMENT: A sweet and pretty sheeny dress with retro style circular lace detail at the neckline and above a lovely pleated border hem.

SUITS: Slim to medium.

KEY ACCESSORY: Black satin corsage shoe, £30, Dorothy Perkins.


Belted kick-flare dress

FROM: Wallis

PRICE: £40 (scarf £8)

COMMENT: A lovely classic dress with on-trend narrow belt, slinky bias cut and below-the-knee kick-flare hem. It's got a fabulous timeless appeal.


SUITS: Tall and slender.

KEY ACCESSORY: Leopard print stiletto court shoe, £90, Moda in Pelle.


Bow and sequin shift dress

FROM: Wallis

PRICE: £38

COMMENT: A really cute and sassy little sequinned number that will look great with opaque tights (black or coloured) and platform high heels.

SUITS: Young and leggy.

KEY ACCESSORY: Brown and teal platform gladiator sandal, £90, Moda in Pelle.


Embroidered collar and hem dress

FROM: Monsoon

PRICE: £55

COMMENT: This is a great one for those who prefer not to be too sombre. The white embroidered neckline and hem flatter the waist and provide balance.

SUITS: Slim and curvy types.

KEY ACCESSORY: Ruched peep-toe court shoe, £70, Moda in Pelle.


Black halter-strap dress

FROM: Star by Julien MacDonald at Debenhams

PRICE: £45

COMMENT: A tight-fitting dress for those who are honed and toned with great arms and shoulders. Keep the rest of the look simple and make sure you wear streamlining under- pinnings.

SUITS: Those who work out.

KEY ACCESSORY: Peep-toe platform sandal, £69.99, River Island.


Fashion assistants: Naledi Rinomhota and Sally Cameron.
Pictures: Gary Longbottom.