While Tess Daly’s Strictly finale dress was hundreds of pounds, our fashion writer has found some cheaper alternatives that are ideal for New Year’s Eve
Tess Daly has been a staple on our television for several years, with a massive part of her career being hosting Strictly Come Dancing with, firstly, Bruce Forsyth, then Claudia Winkleman. But Saturday, December 20, marked the end of an era as both Tess and Claudia signed off for their final ever show as hosts (bar the Christmas special), paving the way for new faces to lead.
While we’ll be sad to see their double act cease, we’ll also be left yearning after their weekly, showstopping outfits that consistently made our jaws drop. On the finale, Tess wore an incredible dress that rivalled the show’s own Glitterball Trophy – a Bronx and Banco Farah One Shoulder Gown from Revolve, which is currently on sale for £715 from £758 – and we think it’s ideal for New Year’s Eve.
However, most of us can’t afford its price tag, leaning to dresses that have more affordable budgets for special occasions. Thankfully, there are a number of high-street alternatives that don’t break the bank quite as much as Tess’ frock.
Decorated in sequins, with a one shoulder strap and leg slit, shoppers can recreate Tess’ look with the Next Lipsy Gold Premium Flower Trim Sequin Square Neck Maxi Dress, which costs £180 and has the same wow-factor with its shimmering finish.
With two thick straps that deliver a square neckline, a dazzling sparkling finish and a leg slit, it’s such a statement dress that will no doubt have heads turning. The dress is available in regular and petite lengths, too, as well as sizes six to 18.
Lipsy Gold Premium Flower Trim Sequin Square Neck Maxi Dress
The Lipsy Gold Premium Flower Trim Sequin Square Neck Maxi Dress from Next is a lovely alternative to Tess Daly’s Bronx and Banco Farah One Shoulder Gown from Revolve.
Not a fan of leg slits? The Goddiva Sequin Cowl One Shoulder Maxi Dress is a glamorous alternative that’s perfect for black tie events and parties, with its elegant sweeping cowl neckline and figure-hugging silhouette. Mirroring Tess’ design, it has a one-shoulder look, while its mermaid hem adds a bit of drama.
Most shoppers adore this dress, with one five-star review reading: “Love this dress, bought for a Christmas wedding and it definitely fits the bill,” but some didn’t get on with its shape. A three-star review read: “Couldn’t get the cowl bit to drape right, it was annoying me, it wouldn’t sit right so sent it back!”
Someone else noted: “Beautiful dress but too big – I also couldn’t work out the drapping properly.” Although for the most part, comments were glowing, with one reading: “Just purchased this absolutely stunning dress for my cousins black tie wedding for December. Never used this company before quick shipment Tried it on fits perfectly. Looking forward to showing it off.”
For more of a halterneck style that’s slinky, the ASOS Design sheer sequin square neck midi dress with cross strap detail in gold has been reduced from £50 to £35.
Embellished with gold sequins, its square neckline flatters the decollete, while the thin micro straps tie at the neck, showing off the back. Fashion fans have shared their love for the design, with one shopper writing a five-star review which read: “Nice dress, love it. Its comfortable and easy to put on. Very classy.”
Another echoed: “I bought this a month ago, it is absolutely beautiful! It’s just as it looks in the photos and it is so flattering. I have subtle curves and I’m more of a skinny build, it looks amazing. No matter what build you have, if you like the look of this dress, buy it. You will have your main character moment and have jaws on the floor.”
Although one drawback someone noted is its lining, with the shopper remarking: “It looks amazing on, but the lining underneath kept riding up. Made it feel cheap.”
Alternatively, for those wanting to get Tess Daly’s actual Bronx and Banco Farah One Shoulder Gown from Revolve, shop it here.
