The summer may almost be over (sorry folks) but one trend that will be staying with us that little bit longer promises to make the transition from late summer parties to Christmas celebrations incredibly easy and effortlessly chic. Cool, elegant and graceful Grecian-style dresses have lined the red carpet this season with the likes of Gwyneth Paltrow, Saffron Burrows and Penelope Cruz arriving at A-list events as veritable goddesses draped in stunning ethereal fabrics with minimal accessories, letting their designer wares do all the talking.

If your budget doesn’t quite stretch to a full-length, Grecian-style Prada gown, why not adopt a few clever fashion tricks and look out for key Greek-inspired features on high street buys that will ensure you wear the look with the grace and confidence of almighty Aphrodite!

One Shoulder

Dramatic and flattering, one shoulder tops and dresses define this trend. Look for gathered, ruche-effect detail rather than structured, one-shoulder straps to maximise this feature and give a natural silhouette and fall to your outfit. Best when part of a stunning unstructured dress, choose a style that gathers at the waist and drops gracefully around your knees or ankles with an asymmetric cut.

Plait & Rope Detail

Look out for subtle rope detail on your outfit, perhaps in the form of twisted rope shoulder straps, a plait or twist effect belt or creative piping. If your dress is missing this detail, be inspired by Sienna Miller and create this effect with your hair! A natural or plaited hairpiece either forming a hair band on your crown or as a way of pulling your hair back in a stylish twist. Headbands and hair swept back off the face in a bohemian fashion really works with this look so be sure to experiment with your newfound goddess locks!

Gladiator Sandals

Floor-sweeping, Greek-inspired maxi dresses and Grecian gowns are best when worn with flat shoes. As much as you may hate to part with your high heels, they just don’t look right with long dresses so save them for mini-dress days. When going for the free-spirited, ethereal look that is dominated by flowing fabric and loose shapes, strappy gladiator sandals are the understated way forward. Choose natural tan, gold, silver or creamy nudes in flat, strappy styles. True gladiator sandals will feature thick tan leather strapping that wraps the foot all over and above the ankle, with some designs even featuring brassy buckles and studs – perfect when worn with a simple white maxi dress – just make sure you’re well pedicured!

Arm Yourself

A key Grecian theme in fashion is armour. No shields, bow and arrows required, just fabulous brass, copper and gold accessories to finish your look. Choose thick bangles, gold hoop earrings and big statement pendants to dress up a simple but gorgeous Greek frock but be careful not to overdo it – always keep striking jewellery to a minimum. When choosing your bag for the evening, go small, no, go miniscule and choose a miniature clutch. You won’t have much room for your belongings but your outfit will be doing all the talking for you – plus tiny bags are achingly on-trend right now, choose something with a fantastic clasp feature and boxy shape to take you through the season.