Autumn is birthday season in Ireland, from the first party of the new class to soft-play afternoons and hotel function-room celebrations. My jewel-tone edit of girls birthday dresses in cobalt, burgundy and emerald shows how to style velvet and sparkle tulle with long sleeves, opaque tights and ballet flats for birthday photos you will love.

Join me for a real-life diary entry as I plan two summer birthday parties and hunt down the dreamiest girls birthday dresses for a proper British celebration. From garden-party styling and twirl-worthy tulle to honest mum tips on fit, fabric and letting her have a say, this is my full behind-the-scenes guide. Plus a complete shop-my-look breakdown so you can recreate the magic.