Haute Hippie (New York) Dress with Cutout & Asymmetric Hem

This expertly tailored asymmetrical silk-georgette dress from Manhattan-based label Haute Hippie is accented by contrast fabric both crowning the cutout bodice and emphasising the beguiling front slit. For your next after-hours event, you’ll love this eye-catching yet elegant style with black accessories.

(RRP US$495)

New Brand Alert: AMERICAN RETRO (Paris) Cutout Dress

Fit and flare meet flirty! This tailored design from the über cool French label American Retro is clearly not your average little dress, but definitely the quickest way to go from office-hours to after-hours. Wear it under a jacket for work, then showcase the striking cutouts on a fun night out with the girls or a romantic date with that special someone.

(RRP €284)

AMERICAN RETRO

American Retro is in fact a youthful, energetic French label launched in Paris by David and Gregory Pariente, who learnt the fashion business through their father Gérard Pariente, the founder of the iconic French brand Naf Naf. The idea behind American Retro is to add some French flair to the romance of American denim. Since its launch in 2002, the brand has quickly gained acknowledgement as ‘fashion’s new child prodigy’ (Elle Magazine).

Creative Director of American Retro, Laure Pariente (wife of David) defines the new codes of the stylish, smart, cool Parisian.

ALEXANDER WANG (New York) Gathered Dress with Cutout

Alexander Wang gives the classic LBD a typically fashion-forward twist with artful gathers and a titillating cutout detail at the waist.

Team this beautifully draped style with and a glossy clutch for an elegant cocktail/dinner date look with added attitude.

Give it a glamorous finish with either pointy red pumps, or sky-high metallic heels.

(RRP US$745)

ALEXANDER WANG (New York) Cut-Out Monochrone Dress

Cut-out, colourblock, and black-and-white — what can be better than this Alexander Wang dress to nail the not one, not two, but THREE mega trends of the New Year? (And it’s hip-friendly at that!)

Keep the look going with cherry-red lips and platform heels.

(RRP US$795)

Cut-out and monochrome manias have swept the SS2013 runways.

ALEXANDER WANG (New York) Layered Racerback Dress

Alexander Wang’s Spring 2013 collection was full of sporty shapes. The traditional sheath is given an edgy upgrade with an on-trend built-in bralette detail. The cutout/racerback further gives a sexy touch, making this a vivacious choice for parties in the New Year season!

This striking frock can be worn from day to night — team it with a blazer and flats for lunch dates, then switch to statement heels and a clutch for parties.

(RRP US$695)

Spring Summer 2013 runways say hurrah to bralettes.

VIVIENNE TAM (New York) Cutout Dress

Give your dress collection a sweet spin with Vivienne Tam’s cutout piece. Adorned with intricate lace-like cutouts, this delicate style will make a beautifully unique choice for garden parties and gatherings with family and friends. Keep accessories at a minimum to let the tactile motif pull focus.

3.1 PHILLIP LIM (New York) Cut-out Back Dress

Do like the A-list and make 3.1 Phillip Lim your first stop for statement cocktail looks like this stunning dress. While shimmering beading adds to the artistry, the open-back design will definitely make a lasting impression at your next event.

Give this piece even more starlit effect by wearing your highest heels and your hair in a glossy chignon.

(RRP US$850)

3.1 PHILLIP LIM Tunic-Dress with Cutout Back

Sharp and crisp but with a comfortable fit, this 3.1 Phillip Lim dress has a special surprise: check out the peek-a-boo sheer cutout back!
Team this runway look with nude pumps and a statement necklace for sports-luxe chic, or wear it as a maxi blouse over pants.
(RRP US$575)

As seen on "the next big things": Melodie Monrose of Martinique and Giedre Dukauskaite of Lithuania.