Fairytale frocks are in, so play the princess game by going all glamorous

Published on Monday 8 February 2010 10:16

ANYONE would think actresses at the recent Golden Globes had all met for a fashion summit before they chose their outfits – it seems fairytale frocks were the order of the day as the likes of Diane Kruger, Drew Barrymore and Emily Blunt took femininity to new heights.

The red carpet was a sea of frothy dresses, sheer frill-tiered gowns and swirling ruffles that looked like they were on loan from the heavens.

With Valentine's Day approaching, 14 February seems to have whipped everybody into hearts and flowers mode, but whether you are coupled up or a staunch singleton, we can all revel in the romance trend this season and designers have done plenty to seduce us – no box of chocs necessary.

Valentino set the tone with a catwalk awash with sheer layered dresses that resembled giant flower corsages and Stella McCartney opted for modern-day romance with oversized dramatic ruffles.

Whether you want true all-embracing romance or to just dip your toe in deliciously decadent waters, there's a style out there to entice even hardened love cynics.

Inject some romance into your wardrobe and fall in love with fairytale style.

REVEL IN RUFFLES

If you haven't already got ruffles peeping out from your wardrobe, it's time to invest.

Go as large as you dare – those frou-frou flounces will really put a spring in your step. Take inspiration from Stella McCartney and try an asymmetric shoulder style so your body isn't overwhelmed by oversized ruffles.

If you want something a little more subtle, look for concentrated ruffles on a neckline or hemline in floral shapes – romance without the all-singing, all-dancing violins.

TRY: Jane Norman ruffle pleat bandeau dress, 75; Forever Unique ruffle petal dress, 175; Phase Eight grosgrain ruffle neck dress, 120.

FRILL SEEKER

Forget pale and interesting and think fun and flamboyant with your frills this season.

Frills are the easy way to add some girly femininity to your look, even when teaming with a moody looking pair of biker boots or leather jacket.

If you're not keen on the idea of a dress of cascading frills, which can add bulk to your frame, try one feature "waterfall" frill falling down the length of your top or dress for a more slimming effect.

TRY: New Look embellished frill top, 40; Evans grey frill dress, 35; Dorothy Perkins pink waterfall tunic, 35; Bonmarch David Emanuel corsage and frill chiffon blouse, 24

SHEER DELIGHT

Pick a top with clean modern lines in a nude or pastel tone and contrast with tough black sandals or accessories to give a nod to romance without melting your ice queen persona.

TRY: Marks & Spencer Per Una Speziale True Romance dress, 120; ASOS sheer panel vest top, 25; Mint Velvet sheer embellished dress, 95.

HEARTY EXTRAS

You can give any outfit a feminine fast-forward with a bag featuring statement ruffles, bows or even heart-shaped frames. Shoes have also been given a pretty makeover with similar boutique detailing.

If you want to say "I do" through your accessories, try a pretty love-themed pendant that spells out your feelings without uttering a word.

TRY: Kaleidoscope mesh ruffle bag, 55; Hi Ho silver love letters love necklace, 29; Matalan floral heart bag, 8; Faith Calypso bow shoes, 60.