The flowing, graceful robes worn by the Ancient Greeks and their Goddesses are inspiring the current fashion scene.

It's a look that is all about elegance and femininity.

All the top designers have gone overboard for the look that adorned the curves of Aphrodite, the love goddess who rose from the waves.

Stunning Greek-inspired gowns by Versace, Alberta Ferretti and the label everyone who is anyone is currently going crazy over, Marchesa, have graced the A-listers on many a red carpet in recent months.

All the celebrities love the look because it bestows instant glamour, elegance and sophistication – and unlike so many red carpet looks, it is SO forgiving.

Many are cut on the empire line (actually, the Regency women nicked it from Ancient Greece – they had a passion for everything Grecian at the time) and it hides tummies and hips.

The graceful fabric swathes and disguises rather than highlight the extra inches you don't want anyone to see. No need for asphixiating Spanx pants if you're subtly draped in folds of falling silk.

The biggest designers in the world have brought Greek chic to their ready-to-wear day and evening collections for the rest of us who can afford it.

Alberta Ferretti showed a softly-draped knee-length dress which effortlessly adapts from day to night with the swap of flat gladiator sandals for strappy metallic heels.

And it was only natural that Hermes, the house that stole its name from a Greek god, would want to latch onto the trend.

They have produced an ultra-simple dress that takes its style from the toga – one of the world's first dresses.

Now the high street is about to go Greek, too. Look out for gorgeous cocktail or full-length dresses cut on Grecian lines. Fabrics that flow or drape are absolutely key to this look. The best are in pure silk chiffon, satin and ultra-fine jersey – check out the fabulous collection of strapless Grecian dresses at Coast and Monsoon at the moment.

But imitation chiffons and silky fabrics can also give a great look – at half the price. Debenhams, Wallis and Dorothy Perkins have a lovely selection arriving soon. Silver and gold, white, neutral tones including mink and grey, plus some fantastic jewel shades abound. And, of course, the colours of the Aegean itself is prominent – deep azure blues and glowing turquoises will turn all heads.

If you feel all those folds and drapes are a bit too much of a good thing, take heart; there are other, more subtle Greek influences filtering through to everything from beach dressing to clubbing pieces.

All those one-shouldered tops and dresses? That's also a Grecian trend. Along with the Romans, they did it first. Baring just one, lightly bronzed arm and shoulder looks so subtly sexy.
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