I’ve never been hugely fond of florals when it comes to clothing – there’s always the risk that you’ll look as though you’ve dressed yourself in a pair of curtains, when what you were really aiming for was something bohemian and quirky. For this reason, floral items must be carefully selected; prints should be striking, fabrics should feel luxurious, cuts should cleverly flatter the figure.
There seems to be a real trend for rich, dark, wintery florals this season and I think that they look so decadent and sexy. A great alternative to shimmer and sparkles, if you’re after something a bit different to wear to parties this Christmas – just add a vampish red lipstick and slick back your hair. It’s all very Gucci, but without the holiday-cancelling price-tag.
French Connection have aced the winter florals trend with their Celia maxi dress – it’s absolutely stunning. It has layer upon layer of beautifully printed fabric and feels incredibly expensive. It would also look equally striking (and appropriate) worn to a summer evening wedding as it would to a swanky New Year’s ball. It’s £185 here*.

Marks and Spencer have some great floral dresses – this white print on burgundy one looks as though it’s no longer available online, but the body-hugging jersey looks excellent with some tough, buckled boots. (These are the Merlin boots from Topshop.)

If it’s teeny-tiny you want then the velve...