Images left to right: D&G AW09, Belle prom dress, £35, Therapy.

Spot the difference: Brocade is a hot trend right now as the D&G dress on the left will testify. The dress on the right is by Therapy and costs an amazing £35. A brocade party dress is the best way to work a cocktail length whilst still making a serious style statement. Pair with hot-to-trot towering ankle boots to add a toughened edge. Hold back on accessories but place a chic black bow in your hair for a playful twist. Your style muse is Alexa Chung meets Marie Antoinette, so think grandeur, elegance and quirky style.

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