THE BEST DRESS: PENCIL MAGIC

A simple and sleek number almost too easy to look smart in, VB-style.

For a few seasons, we've been mesmerised by the chic factor of the military pencil shirt dresses designed by Victoria Beckham. So, what happens if some of the same styles jump in your face from the window of a high street shop? Costing, might I add, somewhere around £20 a pop? Say no more.

Besides a tiny military touch, I love the little V-front block and the mock peplum belt detail, which is something you can recreate for any pencil dress, with the help of a real peplum belt (try asos.com or nastygal.com). And, thanks to the clever and flattering colour blocking, you don't need to bend over backwards to accessorise it.

A structured leather lady bag or a clutch is a must. For the best footwear, just find something simple and sleek to boost that signature nipped-in look. Here, I went with really snug, slightly retro knee boots, but it should look perfect for spring with barely-there black heels, the ones with a single strap across the toes and another at the ankle.

And the real perk? Getting dressed in five seconds.

ponte pencil dress: Mango, quilted jacket: New Look,
leather bag: Karen Millen

dress: Mango

leather bag: Karen Millen