Shirley Ballas shows how to style autumn’s favourite party trend at the Pride of Britain Awards
A red carpet winner, these are the style tips from Shirley Ballas' dress worth noting
Despite the cold weather, sheer fabrics are set to dominate the autumn/winter fashion trends for 2026. Used expertly in layered looks to add interest and fluid movement, Shirley Ballas clearly took note, as she stepped out for the Pride of Britain Awards earlier this week in a beautiful one-shouldered embellished gown with a sheer sleeve.
Her Catherine's of Partick’s full-length one-shoulder dress delivered the perfect amount of glitz and glamour for the occasion. The fitted dress fell delicately to the floor and featured diagonal beadwork that narrowed at the waist to create an hourglass silhouette. The dress is not sold online, although you can enquire about the dress, suggesting it is still available to buy.
The one-shoulder design, coupled with Shirley's bobbed hairstyle, drew the eye up, elongating her silhouette, while the silver embellishment and sheer sleeve created a delicate, elevated finish. Adding further sparkle, Shirley showed off silver jewellery, with a floral cocktail ring and diamond-studded hoops.
With its figure-hugging shape, sparkling sequin embellishments and dramatic, sheer cape, this Karen Millen gown is a striking piece that echoes similar design ideas to Shirley's style. Available in petite or main range, this one is sure to turn heads.
A flowing cape frames the wrap dress-inspired shape of this elegant dress. Eye-catching embellishments create a striking pattern across the fabric. The timeless silhouette will nip you in under the bust and skim over middles for a flattering finish.
Geometric beading and sequin work create a showstopping finish to this gown that would make an excellent choice for any evening event on the horizon. With sheer sleeves, you get that wonderful peek-a-boo effect that delivers light upper-arm coverage, but still keeps you cool.
Accessorise like Shirley Ballas
Offering a similar look and feel to Shirley's earrings, this crystal-embellished design will look sensational with any evening look this festive season, but will also add a party-ready finish to jeans and a stylish top outfit.
A wide, singular band design, this ring is made from 925 Sterling Silver, while Cubic Zirconia gems sit in three rows for a beautiful shine. It looks way more expensive than its price tag.
This cocktail ring feels wearable despite its bold, sculptural design thanks to the slim band. Wear it with evening attire for a striking look, or slip it on with jeans and a blazer for added interest.
The sheer trend is quite a staple in the lead-up to the festive period, and it's understandable if you find the prospect daunting. However, Shirley's interpretation proves that when it comes to injecting the latest looks into your wardrobe, it's all about how you style them.
Opting for layers of tulle fabric with a more solid base, or sheer sleeves, offers an accessible way to try the look; covered in a host of sequins or beads, despite the see-through nature of the fabric, a fairly good amount of coverage remains.
If you are wearing an embellished dress this winter, don't forget to think about the balance of your jewellery. Shirley made a wise choice to skip the necklace, as her neckline was already detailed enough, and chose to echo the lengthening silhouette of her one sleeve with a pair of statement earrings instead, further elongating her frame.
Adding a cocktail ring to her look ensured that she finished off her red carpet ensemble with just the right amount of sparkle, and it's these subtle hints and tricks that are worth noting for the party season ahead.
