After scrolling through hundreds of them in my hunt for a perfect dress for Easter hosting, this floral wrap from Next is the one that stopped me in my tracks.

Light Blue Scallop Sleeve Wrap Midi Dress

Light Blue Scallop Sleeve Wrap Midi Dress

Light Blue Scallop Sleeve Wrap Midi Dress

As a style director I’ve learned to trust that moment of certainty because dressing up for Easter when you’re the host is a very particular fashion puzzle. You want to look chic and celebratory, something that delivers for welcoming guests with Champagne, and - let’s face it – it must work with an apron, too. This dress does that, and more.

Light Blue Scallop Sleeve Wrap Midi Dress

Light Blue Scallop Sleeve Wrap Midi Dress

Light Blue Scallop Sleeve Wrap Midi Dress

First, let’s talk about the pretty tablecloth print dotted with flowers placed in a vase, glasses of wine, bottles of wine, bowls of fruit and floral sprigs. It shouldn’t work, but somehow it does because this print is an invitation to good times.

Light Blue Scallop Sleeve Wrap Midi Dress

Light Blue Scallop Sleeve Wrap Midi Dress

Light Blue Scallop Sleeve Wrap Midi Dress

Now onto the shape. It’s a wrap dress, the only style that you can fit to your own body as you wear it, ensuring a flattering fit. It features pockets, a V-neck, elbow-length sleeves, and the hemline rises with a scallop edge to the front, and dips at the back. The fabric is a planet friendly viscose too, and its washable.

Light Blue Scallop Sleeve Wrap Midi Dress

Light Blue Scallop Sleeve Wrap Midi Dress

Light Blue Scallop Sleeve Wrap Midi Dress

All this adds up to the ingredients of a perfect dress no matter your age or size, and this one is currently fully available in every size from 4 to 22. If the light-coloured background isn’t for you, Next has just added a second equally lovely version of this dress, with a navy blue background and overblown florals.

Navy Blue Floral Scallop Sleeve Wrap Midi Dress

Navy Blue Floral Scallop Sleeve Wrap Midi Dress

Navy Blue Floral Scallop Sleeve Wrap Midi Dress

It’s rare for me to find a dress this universally flattering and pretty at such a reasonable price, so take a look. Best of all, once you’ve worn it for Easter hosting, you'll be able to call on it all spring and summer, too.