Fashion propaganda would have us believe that the dress is dead. As we affirmed last week, full skirts are certainly storming ahead. But as long as there are sunny days (and summer weddings) the chance of a sartorial coup is negligible. The shape that does seem to be slinking away is the smock. There were still permutations of it to be seen on the catwalk, which intimates that it isn't quite dead and buried yet, but for those who prefer a visible waistline this season, there are plenty of fresher alternatives around. Plus, commuters won't feel obliged to give up their seats on the bus for "pregnant" women.

Print Dress If you've failed to spot Stella McCartney's spriggy-print dress this season, well done, because it's everywhere. Why? It's a textbook example of a summer dress that bridges the gap between the hippy and the WI; a floaty floral that eschews the frumpy. Aim for a similar balance with bolder prints, too. By their very nature prints can veer towards the ethnic, so keep shapes structured, particularly in the workplace.

Ruffle Dress You've no doubt heard plenty about Christopher Kane, and now you can see his influence in every hem on the high street. Kane's ruffles are one of the strongest top notes of the season. When investing in them, think about where they fall. To deflect attention from the hips and thighs, buy a dress with ruffles on the top half; they will draw the eye upwards. If you wear them on the bottom half, keep the top slinky and muted and let the flouncy stuff do the talking.

Slouchy Dress Jersey, chiffon and silk work best when the slack is let out, the fabric draping elegantly across the body. To tie this in with a key spring mood, wear a slouchy dress (which will work better in shorter lengths) with some crisp tailoring, such as a trim blazer. This will also tap into the trend for contradictions: loose with stiff, full with slim, etc. And don't forget to stand up straight: lethargy is fine for fabric, but not when it comes to posture.

Shirt Dress The most structured of the quintet, pull this together at the waist to avoid the dreaded prospect of looking like Wee Willie Winkie. With a belt, it's the best style for the office; the more it looks like it has found inspiration on Savile Row, the better. The Vivienne Westwood version has the added bonus of a built-in bra. And when a dress provides underwear to boot, that's one less thing to worry about.

Maxi Dress You heard it here first: the maxi dress is back. As are the Seventies - wide-leg trousers, platforms shoes, long, wispy hair and dresses that sweep along the floor. Bolder and brighter this time round, the maxi dress has only one partner - a chunky heel (although a tan wouldn't go amiss). Whether the weather will allow them the airing they deserve remains to be seen - so keep your fingers crossed.

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