Chiara Black Ruffle-Strap Maxi Dress

The Chiara Maxi Dress is black eveningwear with the effort hidden: a flowing sleeveless maxi with a mesh overlay fabrication, worn as easily as a pull-over.

The straps are the signature — elasticised flounce ruffles that sit softly on the shoulder and flex for the perfect fit. The square neckline drapes gently across the front rather than cutting a hard line, and the mesh overlay gives the black surface depth and a little transparency at the edges. There is no zip to manage; the pull-on design means the dress is on in seconds, and it comes lined.

Black with movement is the most forgiving formula evening dressing has. Heeled sandals and sculptural earrings take the Chiara to dinners, openings and receptions; flat metallic slides relax it for rooftop drinks. The ruffle straps mean the shoulders are already decorated — keep the neck bare and let the drape do the talking.