Thanks V&A: These Stunning Ballgowns Are The Stuff Of Dreams

In truth, we don’t have the need for too many ballgowns in our wardrobe. A well-cut blazer, denim skinnies, and a statement heel are more our speed, when it comes to style essentials. But, Coast’s new collection of ballgowns in association with the Victoria & Albert museum, has us searching our diary for the next black-tie extravaganza.

The collection is inspired by the museum’s popular exhibition, Ballgowns: British Glamour Since 1950. To create it, the Coast design team was allowed access to the museum’s hallowed fashion archives, which resulted in the collection’s six dresses, named Lottie, Blanche, Phoebe, Daphne, Patience, and Cecily. Each work of art (and believe us, they are) typifies the style of the era that inspired its creation, namely the 30’s and 50’s.

Coast is the high street’s answer to affordable evening and wedding looks — with prices starting from £550, the collection is a step above the brand’s typical price point but with hand-crafted finishing touches and intricate detailing, it seems well worth it in our books. In fact we might have to take Daphne home with us. She’s perfect for all of the summer wedding invitations coming through thick and fast. Which style would you like to add to your wardrobe? Click through for an introduction, and let us know if the comments below!