Style Essentials – No 9

The Dress

Although many wardrobes will boast a ton of separates and no one can argue that separates aren’t versatile, a dress can make your figure look splendid. Get the shape and the fit right and you can  show off a good pair of legs, disguise a thick waist, hide a less than perfect tummy and highlight a neat derriere. A dress is also the last word in femininity.

Classic and Timeless

The above dress  is ideal for larger busts a the v-neck draws the eye down. Also, notice the length. Just right.

Flattering and Chic

The ideal dress. That is the dress that is right for you is out there. Should it be black? I believe every women should have a LBD. It is timeless, capable of being worn with a cardigan, jacket, coat or a pashmina. What’s not to like. If you never wear black then choose a colour that suits you. Either a dark intense shade or a soft neutral.

Marine Blue Draped Shift

The dress above shows how the use of clever draping creates a waist and the deep blue colour will suit most skin tones. This style will not go out of date. No matter what style or colour you prefer, the dress, like the jacket, must be  a good fit. This is particularly true with shift dresses. An ill-fitting shift dress looks dreadful. As with the jacket you may need to find a good tailor who can make some subtle alterations. I know a couple of decent tailors and have helped clients find a perfect fit. When you wear a dress that has been altered to fit your body, not the standard 12, 14 etc., then the difference it makes to how you look and feel is immense.

Amanda Wakely Draped Dress

If you prefer a less structured approach the above dress works well for both day and evening. The mink colour can take both neutral and bold colours so how you accessorize can change the look of this dress.

Boots with Orange Shift

Flattering and Informal

Perfection – then it is by Lanvin!

If you rarely wear a dress why not make 2016 the year you change your mind. Have fun choosing different accessories. A belt, brooch, necklace, lace gloves, patterned stockings – the list is endless. You can transform your dress from day to evening. The way you use accessories can individualize your look. Remember, style is how you put it all together.