WE have all done it, ladies - had a “do” on after work that requires a bit of tarting up in the loos.

The night before we get everything ready – the undies, the deodorant and don’t forget the shoes.

With said shoes and accessories in the car, I smugly set off for the office last week, looking forward to a big media bash at the spectacular Anglican Cathedral in Liverpool.

The boss was driving and planned a 5.15pm departure.

After a hectic day, I popped my head around his door at 4.50pm and said: “I am just going to get changed.”

And then lightning bolt. With a horrible realisation, I knew I had forgotten my frock.

I could picture where it was – hanging over the wardrobe door at home 18 miles away.

There were literally gasps from my female colleagues – there but for the grace of God go I! – and then their “What are you going to do” questions.

It took about five minutes to collect my thoughts and from then on it really was a blur.

I had to buy a replacement dress.

The time was 4.56pm.

Our office is a good five minute sprint to Debenhams – I timed it. Once in the store, slightly out of breath, (okay gasping for breath) I picked up a black clingy affair, knowing it would not a) fit me or b) suit me.

But I was a desperate woman. I then spied a black and white geometric patterned dress, a bit '60s.

I grabbed it in two sizes, legged it to the changing room, got stuck in the clingy affair (it was too tight) and then tried the '60s one. It fitted. I could “dress it up” with accessories.

I paid for it, sprinted back to the office and arrived as the town hall clock struck 5.15pm.

I didn’t have time to change so once at the venue I dashed to the loos, did a quick transformation, threw on some accessories and hey presto, I didn’t stick out like a sore thumb.

So ladies, if you fancy a bit of keep fit and thrive on pressure, leave that LBD at home. It cuts out hours of faffing. It’s the way to go!