With summer virtually here and all those winter woolies packed away, it's time to slip into something more comfortable, like a little dress.
The warmer weather brings a chance to liberate your femininity and float around in something floral.
But before you rush out to buy, have you considered investing in a designer number? Thanks to the internet, you can shop like the stars and pick up some celebrity chic for a fraction of the original price. You just have to know where to look.
Yoox is an Italian-based site winning acclaim all over Europe. Not only is it beautifully laid out, it has a help line, an order update facility, a comprehensive returns policy and quick efficient delivery in three to five working days for only £3.
All the designers you've ever aspired to are represented, including Alexander McQueen, Dolce and Gabanna, Gucci, Marni and Prada.
Search by designer or by category with a choice of long, mid-length and short dresses.
The designs originally went on the market last summer but have been vetted by the fashion gurus at Yoox for their quality and relevance to this season.
Despite average discounts of 50 per cent, some of the prices are still pretty astronomical (£439 for a sublime silk Sixties-style Blumarine dress). But there are plenty more affordable options, such as a Versace spaghettistrap dress for an unmissable £64. Not all sizes are available, so it's best to narrow down the search to those items likely to fit you.
Asimilar site on a slightly smaller scale is Haburi, which acts as a factory outlet for Calvin Klein, DKNY, YSL and Fenn Wright Manson.
The stock is usually fairly limited in quantity and snapped up pretty quickly, so you'll need to visit often and have your credit card at the ready. But there are some great bargains, like an Anne Storey halterneck dress, available in sizes 8 to16 and reduced from £269 to £99.
Delivery takes about five working days and is free for orders over £60.
Debenhams online store has a large fashion department, including a section dedicated to specially-commissioned designer wear from Gharani Strok, Jasper Conran, Edina Ronay and John Rocha. The range offers the designer cut and look at a more affordable price. Dresses start at £50 with most about the £100 mark for pretty florals, gorgeous silks, linens and lace and plenty of sequins and beading for added glamour. An excellent sizing guide means you can order with confidence. Delivery takes four to five days and costs £2.95.
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