Gold/black handkerchief hem dress

FROM: New Look

PRICE: £25

COMMENT: I first spotted this satin dress on a curvy shop assistant in New Look and thought it looked amazing. It's a fab going-out dress and very easy to wear.

SUITS: Big busts and lots of curves.

KEY ACCESSORY: Gold gladiator sandal, £55,
French Connection.


Soft grey ruched silk dress

FROM: LK Bennett

PRICE: £139

COMMENT: Flattering, as it subtly gives a waist, and it looks good on all bust sizes, but is not too low for those who prefer not to bare all. There are knee-length versions and different colours.

SUITS: All shapes and sizes.

KEY ACCESSORY: Purple satin flats, £29, Freemans.


Black/white kaftan style dress

FROM: Monsoon

PRICE: £85

COMMENT: This sequinned chiffon dress has a black underslip for modesty and ties at the back to give the look you prefer. It's great for beach, evening, daywear, anything.

SUITS: Medium to tall.

KEY ACCESSORY: Lavender raffia wedge sandal, £40, Moda in Pelle.


Cream short sleeve dress

FROM: Earth Collection

PRICE: £26

COMMENT: The side vents give this simple silk/cotton dress a great holiday kaftan-style feel, while the sweetheart neckline adds interest. Also in pale blue and pale green. Laces at back.

SUITS: All figures.

KEY ACCESSORY: Beads, £15, Earth Collection in Harrogate; gold sandal, £69 (was £89), from Hobbs.


Pink/black floral print dress

FROM: Monsoon

PRICE: £65

COMMENT: This chiffon dress is in a lovely pattern and colours, and ties at the back to suit the wearer. It comes with a black underslip and is seasonal and flattering.

SUITS: Medium to tall, curvy.

KEY ACCESSORY: Caramel patent wedge slingback, £29, from Long Tall Sally.


Pink broderie anglaise dress

FROM: Country Casuals at Fenwick in York

PRICE: £50 (was £100)

COMMENT: Great cherry pink colour, ideal for day events, to accessorize with navy, brown, black or cream. Machine washable, with
matching slip under.

SUITS: Slim to medium.

KEY ACCESSORY: Patent wedge slingback, £29, from Long Tall Sally.


Fashion assistant: Naomi Stafford. Pictures: Simon Hulme.