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10 best Christmas party outfits

We pick out the pieces that will see you through the festive season

Tuesday 08 December 2015 13:28 GMT

‘Tis the season to be stylish but for many the impending rush of Christmas parties – from the annual work do, to festive drinks with friends, to family get-togethers – poses quite the sartorial dilemma. However, dressing over the festive period needn’t be such a headache and the great British high-street is here to prove it.

From glamorous gowns, to luscious velvet and sparkles, the holiday season is the ideal opportunity to try out a bold new look, while those who don’t like wearing dresses will be pleased to hear that this year, there’s more than just party frocks on offer.

Whether you want to dance your way through cocktail hour in metallic pleats, swish around in slacks, or cosy up in a plush jacket, there are plenty of seasonal options that will help get you in the party spirit.

Here we’ve taken all the hassle out of the hunt for the perfect outfit with our round-up of the very best in festive fashion.

Boden Roberta Velvet Jacket: £180, Boden

A jacket is vital for keeping out the chill on your way to and from festive events, but pick the right one and it’ll do far more than keep you cosy. A classy cover-up can instantly pep up your outfit, especially when – like this one from Boden – it comes in sensuous silky velvet. A fabric that’s become almost synonymous with winter, velvet is one of those lavish-feeling textiles that make you look seriously put-together. A modern take on the classic smoking jacket, Boden’s offering is cut with a deep plunge neckline so your top of choice can peek through, and the tie belt will accentuate your figure. For a show-stopping look, pair yours with the matching Palazzo Pants.

Cos Wide-Leg Satin Trousers: £89, Cos

If you don’t do dresses any other time of the year then don’t feel obliged to do them now. There are plenty of great alternatives to wearing a frock and these super-slinky trousers are one of our favourites. Tailored to flatter your figure, they’re made from fluid and silky satin, and come with sharp press folds for a modern take on the classic menswear-inspired look. Designed with a straight, wide-leg fit and long length, those lacking in the height department needn’t be put off. Simply team with a pair of skyscraper heels and they create an instant leg-lengthening effect. Balance the broad cut with a tucked-in top.

French Connection Valerie Sleeveless Sequin Dress: £225, French Connection

If it’s sparkles you want, it’s sparkles you’ll get with this French Connection number. A festive twist on the classic LBD, those seeking a grand entrance are guaranteed to dazzle in this dress, which is covered in high-shine sequins and colourful beads that create a subtle floral pattern. Cut with a high, round neck and a figure-hugging fit that contours the body, it’s the ideal option for those looking to make an impact, without flashing too much flesh. We suggest letting the dress do all the talking here, so keep the styling to a minimal with your hair in a slick low pony and strappy heels.

LK Bennett Nina Gold Leather Clutch: £195, LK Bennett

LK Bennett is the go-to place for shoppers on the lookout for classic party accessories that will add festive flair to any outfit. For a style that will work with most get-ups, we suggest picking up the brand’s Nina Gold Leather Clutch. While small in size, it’s seriously big on style with a warm gold finish, matching hardware and a sleek black interior. It might not hold the contents of your regular handbag but it’s ideal for night-out essentials like your phone, cards and lipstick. We also love that it comes with an optional chain strap for going hands-free on the dance floor.

Mango Satin Wrap Blouse: £49.99, Mango

On-trend with its metallic autumnal hue, you can’t go wrong with this sophisticated wrap blouse that elegantly drapes around the body. Designed in rich metallic copper and cut from satin, it delivers a heavy dose of luxury to any ensemble while the drapery at the waist and decorative bow on the back gives it a high-fashion twist. Wear yours with wide-leg trousers for the ultimate effortless look.

Topshop Tassel Drop Earrings: £14.50, Topshop

On the hunt for the perfect accessory to transform your look from basic to bold? Enter the statement earring. A trend that has laid dormant since its 80s heyday, dazzling earrings are dominating the high street once again. A go-to for trendy trimmings, Topshop is rife with dramatic drop styles but this tassel pair is our favourite. A must-have for fashion mavens, these earrings come stacked with smoky grey and peach-toned jewels, while the matching fringing makes for an impressive 10cm drop.

Whistles Satin Pleated Strappy Dress: £169, Whistles

This dress really does have it all, from swish-worthy pleats, silky satin and the eye-catching tone of the moment, emerald green. Designed with a sweetheart neckline, below knee-length finish and longline pleats, it radiates old-school glamour and requires little to no trimmings. Simply pair with high heels, sleek wavy hair and jewel-encrusted hair clips for a sophisticated finish.

Zara Jumpsuit with Faux Pearls: £69.99, Zara

Christmas and ruby red go hand in hand, but if you’re not one for dresses a jumpsuit could be the answer. A ready-made, all-in-one outfit, they tend to require very little styling and take all the hassle out of choosing what to wear to all those festive parties. This crimson option from Zara promises that you’ll stand out with its straight-cut leg, cinched waist and elegant cape detailing at the back. We also love the fact that it is finished with a line of faux pearls across the shoulders, meaning you don’t need to worry about jewellery either. Simply pair with heels and a box clutch.

Warehouse Foil Pleated Skirt: £56, Warehouse

Swish-worthy pleats have come a long way since your school days, especially when they come in disco metallics like this gold option from Warehouse. An airy style that promises to hide a multitude of sins – goodbye post-roast belly – the fluid pleats skim over your figure to create a form-flattering silhouette. The neutral colouring also means it can go with pretty much anything you have in your wardrobe, be it a silky camisole or a lightweight black knit. Whatever you choose, just make sure it’s not too cumbersome and always tuck it in to balance out the bulk on your bottom half.

Aldo Stessy: £70, Aldo

So, you’ve got your Christmas party outfit sorted, but what about your shoes? Not to worry because Aldo’s got you covered with its most popular pump that now comes in luscious velvet. There’s no colour more festive than red but the deep Bordeaux shade of this striking pair means they’ll also serve you through the rest of the year too. A style that promises to offset your LBD a treat, the curved cut-out and pointed toe of the shoe work to elongate your legs while the subtle croc effect adds a touch of glamour. Also available in six other colours including gold and metallic purple.

The Verdict: Christmas party outfits

For a piece that’s both practical and stylish we suggest picking up Boden’s Roberta Velvet Jacket. While quite an investment, it promises to be a piece that works with most things in your wardrobe during the festive period and well beyond, looking just as sleek paired with tailored trousers as it does a pair of straight cut jeans. Alternatively, we also love Mango’s Satin Wrap Blouse, which, with it’s rich autumnal colour and sumptuous satin finish, exudes a sense of luxury without blowing your Christmas budget.