by Lisa Niven

Dressing for black-tie events is a bit of a nightmare. Not only will you inevitably end up buying something you don't really like but there is bound to be somebody there in the exact same outfit. And you can guarantee you'll have spilt red wine down yourself by the end of the night.

So how can you make soiree dressing a success? Some say stick to black, others to go against the grain. And then how to accessorise? At fashion156 we decided that help was needed from a professional. And who better than Brix, owner of Start boutique, to point us in the right direction?

Former guitarist from 80's band The Fall, Brix and her husband Philip are owners of a boutique that combines beautiful clothes with extreme cool, from the beautiful interior of the Rivington Street store to the easy-to-navigate website, where you can buy most of the clothes online. We asked Brix about eveningwear, and her take on how to make it work for you.

Black-tie events are a tricky one to dress for - what do you think is the most fail-safe but fashionable option?
Brix: Always an elegant gown, but something that fits your body well so you feel comfortable. That way you will feel good and look good.

And if we want to go all out and really be adventurous? Brix: A nice dress that shows your best assets; mine are arms and legs so something which shows both and a killer pair of heels with a FAB bag!

Which colours/fabrics do you think are going to look the best at all the soirees this winter?
Brix: Grey is HOT this season so something cosy and warm looking in grey.

And what do you think will be overdone?
Brix: I think the sequin and patent can be overdone, but if you wear it subtly it can be great.

Which celebrities, if any, do you think manage to pull off a really great look at black-tie events?
Brix: It has to be Audrey Hepburn, she was elegant in every way.

Which designers do you stock that have some really great eveningwear out at the moment?
Brix: We have great evening wear from David Szeto and Phillip Lim this season.

Which is your favourite eveningwear piece?
Brix: Mine’s a new David Szeto dress that he can make to order, it's sooo nice.

If you will be going to any black tie events what will/would you wear? And how would you accessorise? Brix: I would definitely wear one of David's gowns but I would get him to make it to my order so its perfect, I would accessorise minimally as the dress would say it all.