You’ve found your attention wandering far more frequently than normal during the past few weeks, daydreams about having the kind of lifestyle that calls for ballgowns taking over entire afternoons.
It’s not your fault, we just happen to be at that golden time of year when eveningwear inspiration is everywhere.
If it’s not the latest showstopper moment from the ongoing awards season then it’s the spring couture shows, where the likes of Elie Saab and Valentino sent one dreamy, princess-like dress after another down their runways.
But just because you’re not strutting down a red carpet anytime soon doesn’t mean you can’t also indulge your sartorial fantasies – you just need to figure out how to channel some of your favourite eveningwear trends into a subtle look perfect for your next night out.
And with online retailers offering luxury style at a bargain price, you can do it without destroying your credit rating in the process.
Whether we’re hunting for a flowing maxi or curve-flattering prom dress, one of our fallback sites is AX Paris! To help you find a killer ensemble for the weekend, we’ve picked out five sophisticated dresses worthy of any red carpet.
Khaki bodycon midi
Khaki is one of this season’s hottest colours and, although it’s used most often for jackets and coats, it’s also making waves in eveningwear with the likes of this bodycon dress. A vintage vibe from the off-shoulder neckline is given a modern edge with strappy detailing.
The earthy tone calls for glittering metallic shoes and a statement clutch, but you can also carry the colour through to your makeup with a bronze highlighter for extra style points.
Price: £35
Pink crochet maxi
Sheer, applique, flower detailing, asymmetrical shapes, a blush stone colour – this dress ticks off so many trends it’s hard to keep track.
Even with all that going on, the simplicity of the silhouette keeps it chic and classy. Let it do all the talking and pair with minimal accessories and tumbling waves.
Price: £60
Black one shoulder dress
If you’re aiming to have your own show-stopping fashion moment this Saturday, look no further than this one shoulder bodycon dress.
The block black colour and skin-tight fit is all glamour, whilst the flared sleeve adds just the right amount of on-trend drama – perfect for a night of dancing and cocktails.
Price: £28
Navy wrap around dress
Wrap dresses have long been the secret weapon of curvy women, the nipped in waist and v-neckline beautifully accentuating a small waist.
This one is no exception to the rule. Cut out capped sleeves add a touch of interest to an otherwise classy, elegant and understated dress.
Price: £25
Plum embellished maxi dress
For a head-turning outfit that stylishly channels old Hollywood glamour, we can’t find anything prettier than this plum embellished maxi dress.
A sexy thigh-high split is cleverly balanced with a geometric neckline, keeping the look as fresh as it is classic. Some towering stilettos and a bold smoky eye are all you need to finish it off.
Price: £55
