It's the sixth form ball at the start of July, and I've only just been persuaded into going. This means that I'm going to have to get a dress, which isn't going to be a fun shopping experience for me. I'd really appreciate some help from the style gurus of KR... I always think I look a bit silly in a dress, but that's because I tend to hold myself like a boy when I wear one. If I can get over that, then maybe I'd look ok.

I'm not very adventurous with colours...I'd quite like something black. No pastels or cutesy little flower motifs; I'm not much of a girly girl. I'd quite like something vintage, but then the only vintage dresses I can find are on the internet and I'd be hesitant about spending £100 or so on one, without actually touching it or trying it on. My budget is about £100, but that's the upper limit...I want to save some money for holidays in the summer, after all, I don't want to blow it all on one night.

I'm a size 10, 5"7 with long reddy-brown hair, pale skin and freckles.

I think...that's about it. Maybe just post pictures of things you think might suit me from my brief little description of myself and what I don't like, post links to sites or shops in the UK... Thanks.

Try looking at Dawn Stretton for quite simple elegant dresses, but be warned that it's quite a popular shop. Otherwise, Monsoon is reliable but a bit too popular. Where in England are you from? I know of a couple of wonderful vintage shops in Leeds, but couldn't advise you further afield. You could try Karen Millen or Whistles, but they might strecth your budget - remember you'll need shoes, a purse, and maybe a shawl or shrug to go with the dress, and jewellery.

Yeah, the £100 or so is just for the dress, everything else will come on top of that. I ought to have had a look in Leeds when I was on my open day a month or so ago, but I didn't even know I was going then. I was trying to be too cool and not go, but then I ended up getting together with my best friend and now I have to go so that I don't let him down. Luckily there's a grand piano we can just sit and play all night!

I'm from the midlands, I guess you'd say I'm near Derby; I have easy access to Nottingham, Birmingham...the Bullring. There's a Monsoon in my town; I know about half the girls at the ball will have got their dresses from there!

Thanks for replying.