STAR STYLE SCHOOL: Fashion lessons: look and learn with Denise Van

Since winning over Broadway, Denise has traded her 'in-yer-face' style for a cool, sophisticated look. Here's how you can too...

DON'T

take tips from your ex on how to accessorise, particularly if he's better known as 'the prat in the hat'.

DON'T dress like a cartoon character. It might work for Jessica Rabbit, but on DVO it's just not funny. Red satin always looks cheap in the flesh.

DO keep it sleek and simple. A new career means flash new togs. All that dancing has left Den with a fab figure that's well worth losing half a dress to show off.

DON'T have your splits too high. We don't want to see what you've just eaten at The Ivy. Make sure it's your one liners that are side- splitting, not your dress.

DON'T use a celebrity boyfriend as a cover-up for a fashion faux pas, it won't work. If your feet hurt from gruelling dance routines, then stay at home. Gold, chunky flip-flops may be big but they aren't clever.

DO attract attention to your best assets. Especially if like Denise you insist on constantly calling them 'a lovely pair'.

DO dress down for coffee - especially if you have a new dream beau. But Den, it's OK, you can wear heels if you want, this one's taller than you.

DO vamp it up in black. The cheeky Essex girl has grown up and gone glam. Rest in peace, short skirts and white stilettos.

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