This €40 mini dress could get you out of all the style binds this winter

Everyone needs a go-to mini dress that's as suitable for work as it is after-work cocktails

Mini dresses and winter. Like ice-cream and cold weather, it doesn't seem like a 100% match. But, you know as well as I do, that as soon as party season comes 'round, the legs come out.

But, because it's winter, those legs can be encased in tights. And those legs need not be shaved. But, because of what I'm assuming is global warming, it will probably be mild enough to go bare-legged if you want. This dress opens the door for both possibilities and more. You can wear it as it is, straight from the rack. Wear it with a polo neck underneath or a chunky jumper over it for the colder days.

It's as suitable for work as it is for after-work drinks, and it's in the most festive material, velvet.

Of course, it's from Zara.

Zara €39.95

It also comes in green. You can see the style a little better in the snap.

It's one of those truly versatile pieces that can be dressed up or down with a simple change of shoe. We're thinking Doc Marten style boots for the daytime and a sock boot for drinks.

The style is flattering, too, so just about anyone can wear it. We'll take one in both colours, please.