Directional dresses for women who want to look different

If you haven’t read my colleague Niamh O’Donoghue’s post on why she loves Asos White, you should (but not before you’ve finished this one of course). It inspired this piece on directional dresses, because the brand is populated with items that offer fresh silhouettes and modern cuts. Shopping for dresses can so often be a letdown if you’re looking for something with a strong point of difference (as I usually am). The dress below, from Asos White, is one of my favourites right now. The colour is seasonless, the cut contemporary and the shape flattering. What’s not to love?

Satin multi-sleeve dress, €51.35 (reduced from €128.37), Asos White at asos.com

Label Marques’ Almeida is known for its directional designs, and this one-sleeve, asymmetric hem dress offers something fresh and wearable, but with a strong point of difference. In colder weather, layer it over a polo-neck and boots. In summer, it looks standout with a pair of statement heels; try white for this spring.

Cotton and silk-blend dress, Marques’ Almeida, €530 at net-a-porter.com

I don’t think styling this apron dress over a white shirt shows it off to best effect, but nonetheless, it’s a cool piece that I would add a little sex appeal to by wearing it over a racerback T-shirt in warm weather and with a fabulous pair of heels. It’s a tricky colour to wear if you’re pale skinned, so this is probably one for you lucky sallow-skinned ladies out there.

Pleated cotton apron dress, €89 at Cos

I used to find Self-Portrait dresses too pretty, but the brand is evolving and this handkerchief dress looks utterly modern. The excess of material at the top of the dress balances out the mini cut of the skirt beautifully for an overall look that is super chic.

Monochrome handkerchief dress, Self-Portrait, €353 at farfetch.com

I adore this dress. It’s restrained but makes a statement all the same. It’s available from Mango in a gorgeous shade of coral too, but I love to wear Khaki at this time of year, because like denim, it’s a great transitional fabric that never looks out of season. Plus, the contrast between a utilitarian fabric and a girlish silhouette always looks cool.

Asymmetric ruffle dress, €59.95 at Mango