Fashion: Dress for romance

Whether you're heading off on your first date or your 103rd, it's always fun to dress up for a night out.

If you're getting ready for a romantic Valentine's Day excursion this week, or just planning a weekend outing, there are lots of outfits in the shops now that are perfect to impress your date.

Structured dresses are back in vogue - the autumn collections are already turning up on shelves - and, matched with a pair of high heels, they will take you from work right through to a big night out.

You're probably used to reaching for your little black dress, but this year they are popping up in all sorts of colours that add a fun twist on the classic. Little bright green dress, anyone?

Prints - including animal prints - are still around. For a date night, it's better to opt for a demure style if you're going for something as in-your-face as an animal print fabric. Keep the rest of your outfit low key.

Miniskirts, especially the body-con variety, are a fun option. They can be really flattering, sucking in all the bits you're not so fond of, and look great when paired with a floaty blouse.

Of course, you'll want to start your outfit with a foundation of fabulous underwear - Stella McCartney's range always looks and feels amazing.

Top the outfit off with some delicate jewellery, a squirt of your favourite perfume, a smear of bright lipstick and some gorgeous shoes, and you're away.