White Lace Sweetheart Maxi with Tulle Skirt

White lace over tulle, a sweetheart neckline, an A-line sweep to the floor — this maxi is not being coy about the kind of day it dresses.

The romantic lace overlay sits on a tulle underlay, giving the skirt its lift and the surface its depth. The sweetheart neckline is framed by adjustable tie straps, the bust is padded and the back panel shirred, so the fit is set by hand and holds without strain. A silver back zip with hook clasp closes it; a full lining keeps the layers composed.

This is the dress for elopements, registry weddings, receptions, bridal showers and the dinners on either side of them. Pearls are the classic pairing; a low white or nude heel manages lawn and dance floor alike. It photographs like occasionwear twice its effort — which, on the day in question, is the entire brief.