If you’ve never come across The Pretty Dress Company prepare to begin some intense coveting, because their name is apt and honest. When I saw this gingham Femme Fatale prom swing dress for the first time a few months back my want was immediate and intense. I’ve daydreamed about it ever since–that may sound sad, but I don’t care. I like pretty dresses and I cannot lie. Shan’t and won’t. And this, my little darlings, is definitely a pretty dress.

Dress: Gingham Femme Fatale Swing dress C/O The Pretty Dress Company
Heels: Hand bedazzled by me (tutorial here)
Faux Fur Stole: eBay
Brooch: Vintage

All photography by Sarah Forshaw

I’m in love with this dress. It’s just as beautiful in person as in the pictures online that made me want it so badly. Designed and made in the UK, it’s a classically feminine and pretty piece that would flatter any body.

The cross over style bust leads to off-the-shoulders sleeves that have elasticated ruching for a comfortable fit on your upper arms. The dress closes with a concealed zipper in the back. It’s made of a cotton blend and is fully lined, so it’s both comfortably lightweight but also sturdy and well-made. The boning in the bodice helps to cinch and support, particularly important in an off-the-shoulder style. The full skirt is 26-inches long, has pockets and its own net underskirt, which gives a beautiful subtle volume as shown in the pictures above. It’s still possible to wear your own petticoat underneath as well to gain even more volume, which I will happily do in future.

In terms of fit specifics, this dress has some stretch and runs true to size. I chose the size 16, which is listed as 32.75inch waist on the size chart and 40 inch bust. The size 16 measured when laid flat is 32 inches across the waist and when stretched measures to 35 inches, which fits me comfortably. If you bear that in mind and follow the size chart with your measurements you should be able to reliably find yourself the right size.

This is one of those perfect dresses that can be thrown on quickly on your way out the door and still look effortlessly polished, as well as easy to dress up for a smart occasion. It’s the epitome of a summer dress but it’s so beautiful that I refuse to store it away over winter. Why would I? Being a Femme Fatale, after all, it something for all seasons.

The gingham prom Femme Fatale dress costs £185 and is available from The Pretty Dress Company or select stockists. This Femme Fatale swing silhouette also comes available in other prints, including a gorgeous tartan print for the festive season, as well as available in a pencil dress cut.