Balmain Pearl-embellished crushed-velvet dress

As the AW16 Balmain show came complete with a mini orchestra and cabaret singer, the ante was upped. And the French fashion house surpassed expectations, reinventing the Jolie Madame aesthetic neglecting no-nonsense military detail in favour of ruffles and frills. The shoulder-enhanced silhouette remained, as it does on this dress, but it takes a dainty turn with countess-like pearl embellishment on a sweet foundation of crushed velvet.

• Balmain silk crushed-velvet dress
• Exposed zip fastening at back
• Plunge-neckline, draped pearl embellishment detailing at neckline, shoulder padding, long sleeves, ruched and gathered detailing at side, slit detailing at side
• 77% viscose, 20% silk, 3% elastane
• Dry clean
• True to size
• Size 8: Length 30.5"
• Model is 5ft 10" and wears a size 8
• Made in Italy

Sizes: 8, 10, 12