The royal wedding caused a bit of a stir in the fashion world. The dresses of the new Duchess of Cambridge as well as her sister Pippa have inspired a new interest in formal ‘evening’ dresses. What’s more the summer racing season has begun with glamorous women across the UK seeking ever more amazing hats, shoes and of course statement dresses.

While other fashion blogs are covering festival dresses, we will instead give you a heads up on the chicest and more glamorous dress styles to be seen in this summer.

Layering, ruffles and pleats

Dresses are interesting this summer. By this we mean they are tactile, you want to feel the fabric and the way it lays and flatters the body using layering, ruffles and pleats adds interest and glamour. The most common form or pleating is in the skirt as layers of fabric drape over one another giving a kind of Greek goddess impression. Ruffles are generally found on the upper part of the dress, on the straps or bodice sections. However, don’t go crazy; keep it simple and elegant.

Bold, block colour

The colour block trend is everywhere this summer and infiltrates plenty of other summer styles. Go for a short and sweet number and accessorise with clashing colours. There is a huge selection of one-shoulder and strapless styles in this trend as well as body-con shapes.

Pure white

White and ethereal or white and tailored seem to be the two ways of wearing this often hard to wear colour. Head to toe white can be too much for some people, but it is the essence of summer and this year it is one of the most prominent trends of the season. A long, full-length gown is the way to wear white this summer. Add detail and interest with bows, corsages, lace and beading.

1950’s prom

The 1950s was a decade when women were women and men were men. Insomuch as women’s fashions were feminine, figure flattering and chic. Dresses of the time accentuated the waist and had full skirts ending at the knee flattering the hips and thighs. This summer the same proportions and detailing are being used this time round, being true to the original form and style of the 1950’s prom dress. Pastel colours and floral patterns play a major role, but generally on a white background.

1960’s shift

Oh the shift dress, one of the most flattering dresses ever, on any size or shape. This classic style never goes out of fashion and is one of the most common styles for the LBD every women should own. This summer, work in the ‘brights’ trend. Go for bold, block colours in fuchsia, plum, orange, mustard and post-box red.

House of Fraser has literally hundreds of evening and party dresses to choose from, from dozens of different brands.

Buy party evening dresses and other secial occassion dresses from soobest.com,