Make the cut

When it comes to style this summer, there’s one look that is a cut above the rest.

But while the cut-out dress may be one of summer’s trickier trends, don’t automatically assume that they’re not for you.

Dresses with teardrop cutouts on the chest, hip slashes and midriff flashes featured in the spring/summer collections of designers including Gucci, Christopher Koma and Jacquemus. And, where high fashion leads, the high street follows.

Mango, H&M and Reserved are among the more affordable brands putting their twist on the cut-out dress this season.

When it comes to length, both midi and maxi work well, as do long-sleeved numbers.

While you’ll find dresses with artful slashes just about everywhere, if you are nervous about showing too much flesh, choose a dress, top or jumpsuit that reveals just a hint of skin at your rib cage or side.

And, if a fitted design makes you feel too exposed, opt for something with a bit of swish and swing.

This season, she who bares wins.

Asymmetric cut-out-detail dress, £17.99; sandals, £19.99, both H&M Cut-out midi, £45 River Island Draped dress, £35.66; sandals, £46.95, both na-kd. com

Linen blend midi, £39.99, Reserved; sandals, stylist’s own Gingham jumpsuit, £19.60, Blue Vanilla; shoes, stylist’s own

Side slit dress, £49.99; sandals, £59.99, both Mango; accessories, stylist’s own