Models: Brooke Mather & Caitlin Mather

With Valentine's Day imminent some of you may be treated to a swanky night out. Dressing up in formal evening wear is usually thrilling but can also be stressful leading up to the event. I know of women who spend a significant amount of money finding the right dress and shoes often wearing the purchases only once.

Worn with the right accessories and a confident attitude sometimes the simplest, least expensive dress can look the most glamorous.

Caitlin and Brooke demonstrate a couple of very affordable looks with these dresses purchased new from LostAdam82's TradeMe store for under $30.00 NZD each.

The royal blue fishtail looks stunning against Brooke's complexion and blond hair. To go with the regal effect, Brooke's been styled with diamante accessories. The jewelry really pops against the blue.


Caitlin's lace insert scarlet number looks amazing against her tan skin and brunette locks. We went classic with the use of gold accessories. Given the thigh high slit, the shoes are more obvious than on most floor-length dresses. Statement gold and black Isabella Anselmi snakeskin stilettos are just the ticket to finish off the ensemble.

If you have long hair an up-do really polishes a chic look and it doesn't require a trip to the hairdresser. To replicate the simple hairstyle used on both Brooke and Caitlin, simply start with curls. Tie the hair into a low ponytail. Split the tail in half and for each half twist into a rope. Tuck the ends back toward the centre and using split and bobby pins secure the twists to the base of your head. Plenty of hairspray will keep it in place.

Alternatively, a French braid is a tried and true classic.

Models: Caitlin Mather and Brooke Mather

I like to take a bit of attitude with me to work whether that's in texture, colour, cut or statement accessories. Just because it's work doesn't mean it has to be boring. Caitlin and Brooke show off a couple of professional looks that didn't cost a lot but bring a bit of glam to the grindstone.

Both the dresses featured were purchased from LostAdam82's Trademe store.

Both pairs of shoes were thrifted - although Brooke's Therapy brand faux snake shoes are still instore at Number One Shoe Warehouse. Caitlin's black clutch is a recent purchase from Colette by Colette Hayman whilst Brooke's versatile metallic and snake hand candy was thrifted from Savemart.

I've read articles in magazines before that imply one shouldn't show toes at the office. Not a 'rule' I ever go by as you can tell.

I do recommend that you keep flats for walking the streets if for no other reason than to keep your heels in good order.

Model: Natasha Bell

I enjoy costume parties and really prefer to put together a costume myself rather than hiring or buying one.

Sometimes it's really as easy as wandering down to your local dollar store and buying a pair of wings. The black feathered variety that Natasha wears was only $6.90NZD - and all the other items were taken from our combined existing wardrobes.

Model: Natasha Bell

Having a bit of fun doesn't have to become stressful and expensive to get a great result.

Model: Caitlin Mather

I love this surprise find from Millers: a very pretty mellow yellow that enhances Caitlin's tanned complexion. The dress design is retro-70s, Laura Ashley-esque feminine in feel and the hemline a demure 1920s mid-calf. The detailing with the lace hem is just superb and is a step up from what you generally expect to find in a budget clothing store. With a pair of dainty white flats and accessories, this make a lovely ensemble for a summer outdoor event.

Caitlin wears:

• Dress from Millers
• Thrifted bangle
• Thrifted belt
• Floral hair accessory from KMart
• Handcrafted earrings purchased through Felt