Marlie Cream Polka Dot Off Shoulder Mini Dress

The Marlie is sweetness with good bone structure — cream polka dots on a mini that bares the shoulders and pleats its way to charm.

The off-shoulder style rests along the arms, framing the collarbone, while the sweetheart neckline shapes the bustline beneath it. Short sleeves soften the frame, an inner bust rubber grip and a back elasticised shirred panel share the job of keeping everything in place, and non-functional buttons run the front for detail's sake. Pleats structure the skirt, an invisible zip with hook and eye clasp closes the back, and the dress is lined.

Mini length keeps the mood light: garden drinks, date nights, a friend's engagement party. Red accessories play up the retro in the dots; nude tones keep it soft. Either way, the bare-shoulder line is the part the photographs remember.