pink acid print short sleeve scoop mesh maxi dress Maya Frosted Stripe Embellished – Maya Deluxe Featuring a flattering scoop neck and sleeveless style Scoop Neck Frill Detail Side

Despite being an increasingly popular dress code, black tie optional probably still leaves you with more questions than answers

Logistics prevent me from hiring a frock living 500 miles from London has many implications for fashion! Now when it comes to dresses I recently reread one of my favourite Grace Kelly quotes which I think applies particularly well to evening dressing: your dresses should be tight enough to show youre a woman and loose enough to show youre a lady. With that in mind, here is my selection of Christmas party dresses for women over 40

This stunning dress features a flattering strapless neckline that beautifully showcases your shoulders and neckline

Regardless of the budget, black bridesmaid dresses look luxurious

They tuck into corners, slide under windows, hide inside closets, pull double-duty in hallways, and can even be repurposed into an outdoor serving or grilling station