The Daily Mail's Senior Features Writer, Rebekah Absalom, tries on a selection of party dresses a cult favourite brand.
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When it comes to show-stopping dresses, Queens of Archive is always front of mind. Renowned for its vintage-inspired designs and impressive celebrity following, the brand places glamour at the heart of every collection.
It's little wonder that the likes of Holly Willoughby and Alexa Chung are fans, drawn to its 60s and 70s-inspired silhouettes, leopard print coats and sparkling mini bags that strike the perfect balance between old-school charm and modern edge.
The current collection also carries unmistakable royal appeal.
One floral frock bears a strong resemblance to a style worn by Princess Beatrice, while a playful mini echoes design details favoured by both the Princess of Wales and Zara Tindall. There's even a billowing maxi dress feels perfectly suited to the Duchess of Edinburgh.
Each Queens of Archive piece is given a distinctive twist, designed to make the wearer feel instantly glamorous rather than costume-led.
Under the creative direction of founder Nicola Orme, the brand is infused with a personal touch, shaped by her love of statement prints and all things vintage.
Sustainability is also central to the label's ethos, with limited drops supporting its ambition to move towards zero-waste production.
Naturally, there was only one thing left to do - put it to the test.
Claudia dress
The moment I spotted this beautiful dress, I immediately thought of Princess Beatrice, who owns a strikingly similar style.
It skims the figure effortlessly, while the fluted sleeves add a real sense of drama - I felt instantly glamorous and couldn't resist giving it a twirl.
Despite the ruffled hem and winter blooms print, it doesn't feel over the top. Instead, it strikes that perfect balance between statement and wearability, with just the right amount of movement.
It's surprisingly comfortable, with subtle shoulder pads that give the silhouette a polished finish. Overall, a throw-on dress that looks considered and elegant while still feeling great to wear.
I styled it with gold Air & Grace heels to elevate the look, but it would work equally well with classic black accessories.
The moment I spotted this beautiful dress, I immediately thought of Princess Beatrice, who owns a strikingly similar style
Karina dress
Velvet dresses are a festive-season staple, and this one is guaranteed to stand out.
It channels 60s femininity through voluminous sheer organza sleeves, a pie-crust collar and playful daisy trim, while cuffs scattered with tiny embroidered blooms add a romantic flourish.
The monochrome palette is a real win, offering something a little different and making it surprisingly versatile for year-round wear.
Easy to slip into and effortlessly polished, it pairs beautifully with Mary Janes - I styled mine with a patent black pair from Grenson.
I can easily imagine this dress on Princess Beatrice, given her recent run of fashion-forward looks.
The Karina dress channels 60s femininity through voluminous sheer organza sleeves, a pie-crust collar and playful daisy trim, while cuffs scattered with tiny embroidered blooms add a romantic flourish
Bettina dress
With its combination of polka dots and florals, the Bettina dress has Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, written all over it.
Admittedly, I was unsure when I first saw it on the hanger, but it completely won me over once on. The billowing sleeves are a standout, with smocked cuffs that give a subtle nod to the 70s.
The dress features a semi-sheer maxi skirt with two front slits, layered over a mini slip that was just long enough on me. It strikes a lovely balance between drama and wearability.
I picked out the gold metallic spots with coordinating heels, but it would work just as well styled for any evening occasion.
With its combination of polka dots and florals, the Bettina dress has Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, written all over it
Audrey
This 60s-meets-celestial mini dress feels made for party season. Just ask Holly Willoughby, who owns the floral version.
I thought the jacquard star design was perfect for winter events, and the velvet bow at the neck instantly reminded me of the one Princess Kate wore to her Christmas carol service last year.
The puffed sleeves - a silhouette loved by Zara Tindall - are nicely balanced by a fitted waist and A-line skirt. It's short, but not overly so, making it both fun and wearable.
I finished the look with sheer black tights and Aldo suede sock boots for an party-ready outfit.
Rebekah thought the jacquard star dress was perfect for winter events, and the velvet bow at the neck instantly reminded her of the one Princess Kate wore to her Christmas carol service last year