ASK LJUBENKA

QWith Christmas nearly here there are plenty of parties popping up on the social calendar. I have been invited to a few very fancy affairs but I don’t really want to buy anything new. I have one elegant black dress I can wear but I’m struggling with how to make it look a bit different for each event. Could you give me some tips on how to jazz up an old classic?

AI love jazzing up an old classic! A great fitting black dress made of beautiful fabric will stand the test of time so is certainly worth the investment. Accessories such as jewellery, shoes or even a coloured belt can change your look and style in no time. Try gold or pearl jewellery and strappy black sandals for classic elegance, for instance, or a colourful statement necklace and toning heels for contemporary chic. Add a smart jacket for one event and a drapey shawl for another. A sparkly bolero cardi could change your look again, as would a long-line floral chiffon kimono. If it suits the style of your dress, you might be able to wear a white lacy top underneath it, or a boxy satin top over it to create a skirt and blouse effect. Spend a bit of time playing dress-ups with what is in your wardrobe – you may be surprised at how many looks you can create!