Society reporter Miss Claire Burbage is invited to attend the premiere with Mr David Roberts, but what is a girl to wear?

IT is not every day I get asked to be someone's glamorous escort on the red carpet.

But working alongside an upcoming film star, someone was needed to take on the role.

But, such an honour comes with such a dilemma, what do I wear?

Glamming-up for such an occasion is a tall order. My wardrobe does not really cater for such a high-profile event.

How was I going to compare to the usual red carpet women who are so beautiful, glamorous and groomed?

I needed some help.

I turned to the Joseph store, in Dalton Park, near Sunderland, which is well-known for its designer dresses.

First in the offing was a dress by designer Alexander McQueen - worn by actress Eva Green at the London premiere of Casino Royale.

This gorgeous dress, currently in the Joseph sale, seemed to fit the bill perfectly.

But unfortunately, I was not blessed with long legs and the trail of the dress would have seen me fall flat on my face while trying to strut my stuff down the red carpet.

So, it was down to the shop assistants to pick out a number of dresses suitable for the occasion.

The dresses I tried on ranged from £2,000 to £4,500, by high-profile designers including Dolce and Gabbana and Derek Lam.

After much deliberating, I settled on a £3,255 dress by Lanvin.

I then turned to a guru from the fashion world for some extra red carpet tips.

She said: "The lady' look is back for the season; big Forties influence in shapes, accessories and make up.

"Black is always best - it is flattering and suits most occasions.

The slender silhouette is back, with pinched waists coming through strongly - don't wear a tunic style for the red carpet.

"High-heeled shoes are a must - strappy black sandals - and don't forget ruby red toenails.

"Glitz is good, but don't overdo it. Wear one big bold necklace rather than lots of jewellery, or stick to pearls - very in now.

"Long gloves are back for the glamorous occasions - black to go with the dress."

And with a few final tips, my outfit is just about complete.

Other tips for glamming up on the red carpet include: * Little black bag, beaded - embellishments are important.

* Get rid of the lip gloss, go for the bright lipstick, for the lady look reminiscent of the Forties.

* Pack a powder compact in your bag - this is now an essential - take it out and powder your nose.

* Get your hair done professionally, give it a shape. Longer lengths can by styled and glammed up.

* Don't forget to smile - the best cosmetic in the world.