Fashion: Christmas sparkle

Last month we highlighted some of the main looks of this party season but now it’s time to get down to the nitty-gritty of your outfit.

As invitations come flooding in for parties, lunches and festive get-togethers, there are a few things to keep in mind when it comes to dress code.

Number one, you are never fully dressed without some short of shimmer. There are a ton of ways to take this, from full on sparkle to much more subtle accessories. Bead work on frocks is always massive come Christmas so it’s easy to get a hold of on the high street. Try a tame little black dress decked out in a spot of sequin to sass up the look. Remember, if your dress is embellished, try and keep accessories to a minimum with hair and make-up following a much more simple style.

If opting for a sequin dress is a bit too daring, there are other options out there. Piling a heap of accessories together to create a statement neckline is a sure-fire way of preventing bumping into someone wearing the same outfit as you. Pay no 
attention to the “less is more” fashion mantra and marry several pieces together to create one collective piece.

This is great for tarting up an older garment in the back of your wardrobe. By adding a few different accessories in strategic places you can create the illusion of a different dress for a fraction of the cost.

Metallics are always milling around at this time of year. Dare to be a little different by butching up a mini with some intense biker boots. This will counterbalance the sexiness of a skin-tight dress and give a much edgier feel to the overall aesthetic. Plus your feet will thank you for not forcing them into sky scraper heels when you are dancing the night away.

Studding is still a strong trend and it’s one which won’t be going anywhere come next season. Again the key to this is investing in a couple statement accessories. A studded shoe or belt can transform the look of an outfit giving it longevity in your wardrobe. Go girlie with a full-on sequin maxi dress by throwing a belt around the waist and finish it all off with festive feathers. Just remember it’s the only time of the year you can get away with excess, so fill your fashion boots.