You can't wear THAT down the market! Sultry EastEnders star Shona McGarty's worlds away from frumpy Walford alter-ego

By Holly Thomas

Last updated at 10:06 AM on 26th August 2011

Shona McGarty is normally seen in more casual attire as her on-screen alter-ego Whitney Dean.

However the EastEnders actress, 19, stepped it up a notch as she arrived at ITV studios earlier today looking sophisticated in a fitted nude dress.

The teenage star completed her outfit with high platform white heels and a pleated tan leather belt.

Looking smart: Eastenders star Shona McGarty's sophisticated look was a far cry from that of her Watford alter-ego

And it was a rare chance for the actress to show off her toned legs in the short skirt, she's more usually seen in scruffy clothes for her role as Whitney.

The look, with the more modest ruffled top keeping her outfit classy, was completed with a fresh-faced approach to her make-up. Subtle smoked out eyes replaced her usual harsh eyeliner.

It's unclear what her new look was for and why she was at the ITV studios but there was no doubt that Shona was able to enjoy a more mature wardrobe than she does on her home turf at the BBC.

There hasn't been much call for dressing up for Shona's character Whitney in Albert Square recently.

All smiles: Shona looked confident and relaxed in the uncharacteristically smart outfit

All smiles: Shona looked confident and relaxed in the uncharacteristically sophisticated outfit

In a controversial plot line this year, Shona plays the lovestruck teen who has been victimised by her pimp ex-boyfriend Rob, played by former Shameless star Jody Latham.

Having been forced into prostitution by Rob, Whitney escapes his clutches for a while, but can't escape the feeling that she hasn't seen the last of him.
The experience of playing Whitney for such a difficult storyline has affected Shona.
And speaking to Soaplife magazine, she explained: 'When I researched the whole area of sex exploitation I found out that these are organised crimes and victims often end up staying with the perpetrators because they fear for the safety of family members.'

Sexy: The fitted shape and belt at the waist showed off Shona's curves

The prostitution story line builds to a dramatic climax in Southend, also involving Whitney's half brother Ryan Malloy, played by Neil McDermott, who is leaving the show.

Playing the end of the dramatic plotline was yet another emotional experience for Shona, who revealed to Digital Spy: 'In Ryan's last scene, Whitney is absolutely devastated and she cannot stop crying. But I felt the same way and when they called 'cut', I couldn't stop crying! I was in hysterics - I was so upset.'

Thankfully it looks as though today made a welcome change of pace for the 19 year old actress.

Usual look: Shona is normally kitted out more casually playing Eastender Whitney Dean, pictured here with evil ex Rob (played by Jody Latham)

Usual look: Shona as she looks playing EastEnder Whitney Dean in the controversial prostitution storyline, with her pimp ex Rob, played by Jody Latham