Sorry Jess, but it’s a miss!  This dress is like the reverse mullet of ballgowns – party in the front, business in the back!  And don’t even get me started on that prom queen hair do. 

This is a lesson in how not to do formal wear.  I understand Jessica was probably trying to be edgy, but I just don’t think this works, and is certainly not a look I would emulate at my next formal occasion.  The dress would have been beautiful without the front missing, and if Jess had worn a more sophisticated hair do, such as some loose curls or a simple bun or chignon, the whole effect would have been more elegant.

If you have an occasion to attend that calls for formal wear, or a ball gown, my recommendation is to keep it simple.  Classic styles are a fail-proof way to look elegant, such as simple strapless styles, or cocktail length dresses.  One shoulder is also a really hot trend – check out what a lot of celebs were wearing at this year’s Emmys for some inspiration.  Designer Sera Lilly also does formal wear beautifully – check out her summer lookbook here. 

Keep jewellery and accessories to a minimum and hair sophisticated – no sixth form ball up dos please!  And of course, some fab shoes- Jess does redeem herself a little with her beautiful Ferragamo heels.

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