How can I make floral dresses look cool and edgy?

Spring is the season for floral prints. Looking feminine is easy with floral dresses, which are perfect for weddings, high teas and all-round sweetness.

But one should not settle for just looking sweet in a floral dress - that is boring. Get maximum mileage by making it work for a night out at the club or at the latest hip restaurant in town.

Freelance fashion stylist Elizabeth Yuen, 25, advises pairing "floral dresses with chunky accessories such as boots or a choker to contrast against the dainty print".

One should also take note of the material and cut of the clothing, she adds. Floral prints on more structured shapes, such as a shift dress, will look less feminine compared with a floral print dress made in chiffon.

Here are more tips on how to make a floral dress look cool and edgy:

• Ditch the dainty sandals and go for chunky styles, platform sneakers or boots.

• Avoid slouchy shoulder bags as they have a hippy vibe. Choose handbags or clutches that are boxy and structured.

• When accessorising, look for chunky arm cuffs and necklaces that have a modern design.

• If you need to cover up, wear a bomber jacket or blazer. A cardigan would look too sweet.

White soft jersey blazer, $79.90, Uniqlo; floral dress, $109, Zara; flatform sneaker in black pony hair, $189.90, Superga; and drawstring bag with wooden ball, $658, Building Block from Kapok at National Design Centre

A look that can take you from day to night. Wear a blazer in a contrasting colour and add some height to a midi dress with platform sneakers. Swop the sneakers with heels for a different look.

Orange jacket, $289, In Good Company; white floral print dress, $85.90, Mango; sandals with tassels, $139, H&M; and knotted leather ball necklace, $99, Cos

Dress up a sleeveless dress with a bright blazer and funky sandals. When pairing different-coloured separates, make sure they have at least one colour in common so the outfit will look put together.