This beautifully cut dress by Girls of Dust showcases how versatile a simple piece can be in terms of dressing up or down. There is a tendency to overthink ‘smart’ outfits and actually, with a little bit of tweaking, an understated garment can be perfect for a dressier occasion. It’s all in the accessories.

Here, we have elevated it with some statement earrings which I love. However the dress could take a lot more jewellery should you be so inclined. A big, bold necklace, layered bracelets and statement rings would look wonderful, particularly for an evening event. A cream jacket draped over the shoulders with strappy sandals (with or without a heel) a lick of dark red lipstick et voila! Ready to go.

Conversely, for the daytime, a pair of trainers and simple hoop earrings would be perfect. If you wanted to wear this dress in the winter then I would suggest a white shirt underneath or a black turtle neck and opaque tights with flat knee high boots and a lovely wool coat. This is the beauty of a heavy cotton, it can take heavier winter fabrics.

I don’t actually have a lot to say about this outfit - other than I love it, it’s fun and it makes me smile. Wearing the top and trousers together isn’t for everyone but both pieces are beautifully made and would work perfectly as separates. The skirt of the top has SO much material in it, it’s such a lovely piece to wear. With white jeans, it would be a more restrained look but would still pack a punch! I’d also love to see the trousers paired with ballet pumps, maybe in orange or bright pink and an oversized white shirt.

Mum, Alex and I really got the giggles on this shoot. I can’t even remember what we were laughing about but whatever it was, it really tickled us.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALEX MOONEY

Sue wears…

Dress, £285, Girls of Dust

Earrings, £290, Deborah Blyth

Shoes, no longer available but by Steve Mono

Hannah wears…

Top, £215, Nadinoo

Bottoms, £155, Nadinoo

Neck tie, £50, Nadinoo

Hat, £110, Nadinoo

Trainers, £45, Novesta

Sunglasses, £125, Pala Eyewear

-STYLE EDIT-

-Easy to wear summer dresses-