Party dresses for mums

<p> f you thought <strong><a href="http://www.topshop.com/" target="_blank">Topshop</a></strong> was off limits for 'mum occasions', think again. There are lots of appropriate party dresses that have a subtle fashion feel, like the Peter Pan collar tunic in bottle green, which is great for daytime parties with flat knee-length boots, black tights and a big, statement ring.<br /> &pound;28<br /> Sizes 6 &ndash; 16</p>

<p> Neutrals are ideal for mum occasions because you can either dress them up with strong accessories or keep things subtle with natural make-up and low wedge boots. This beautiful taupe dress by Never Fully Dressed at <a href="http://www.pretaportobello.com/" target="_blank"><strong>Pretaportobello.com</strong></a> is the perfect example.<br /> &pound;60<br /> One size 8 &ndash; 14</p>

<p> Another trend this party season is purple, and although it is a statement colour you don't have to choose a dress that is too show-stopping. This split sleeve tunic at <strong><a href="http://www.simplybe.co.uk/" target="_blank">Simply Be</a></strong> would look great for a theatre trip with the kids.<br /> &pound;36<br /> Sizes 12 &ndash; 32</p>

<p> For a dress that conveys a sense of your bohemian spirit, as well as looking graceful, the rose floaty dress from the Limited Edition collection at <strong><a href="http://www.newlook.com/" target="_blank">New Look</a></strong> will make you want to twirl around on the school fair dance floor, along with your little one.<br /> &pound;39.99<br /> Sizes 6 &ndash; 16</p>

<p> if you just can't resist a bit of bling, there are ways to do it subtly, adding a party twist to your outfit without going over the top. The embellished diamante dress at <strong><a href="http://www.warehouse.co.uk/" target="_blank">Warehouse</a></strong>, for example, is feminine and glamorous, and can be toned down for mum-events with a chunky knit cardigan and black leggings.<br /> &pound;65<br /> Sizes 6 &ndash; 16</p>

<p> Vintage-style dresses are always a great talking point, and choosing something unusual and unique shows that you haven't lost your eye for a great piece. Whether it's a kids' party or a mums' social, wearing something akin to the 1930's-inspired Glamazon dress by <strong><a href="http://www.silkandsawdust.com/" target="_blank">Silk and Sawdust</a></strong>, available in black or wine, will make you feel timelessly stylish and sensational &ndash; and the fair trade ethics behind this particular brand make for interesting party conversation too.<br /> &pound;125<br /> Sizes S (8-10) &ndash; LL (18)</p>

<p> If you like warmth, comfort and effortless style, there's good news in store - jumper dresses are back with a vengeance. The baroque and roll knitted tunic dress by <strong><a href="http://direct.asda.com/george" target="_blank">George at Asda</a></strong> is suitable for almost any event - and with a faux fur jacket and biker boots you can lay your 'rock 'n' roll mum' cards on the table.<br /> &pound;15<br /> Sizes 6 - 18</p>

<p> If you're going to a party with other parents, but no kids, you might want to crank it up a notch. A silk dress will turn heads and the gorgeous shift dress from <strong><a href="http://www.kew-online.com/" target="_blank">Kew</a></strong> has classic styling that will keep it looking fresh for years to come.<br /> &pound;95<br /> Sizes 8 - 14</p>

<p> The <strong><a href="http://www.give.co.uk/" target="_blank">GIVe</a></strong> range of clothes by George Davies is aimed specifically at women in the 30 plus age bracket. If you want to make an impression by wearing an elegant dress with a striking print, GIVe's Mandy dress is stylish and made with material that provides comfort and stretch &ndash; handy if you're picking up a toddler, or chasing a baby around the party.<br /> &pound;79<br /> Sizes 8 - 18</p>