I’ve Assembled 6 Expensive-Looking Party Outfits Entirely From M&S

We’re nearing the end of 2022, which means our calendars are filling up with Christmas bashes, candlelit get-togethers and festive dinner parties. Pass the mulled wine, please.

I don’t know about you, but I consider partywear to be one of the most exciting sartorial categories. It’s always nice to depart from one’s everyday uniform (for me, it’s jeans and a jumper) to get a little more dressed up. That being said, I’m reluctant to spend a lot of money on going-out attire; I prefer to invest in items I’ll wear regularly, and I always keep to a strict budget on the partywear front to ensure I don’t overspend or waste money.

This is what led me to Marks and Spencer‘s website, where I was pleasantly surprised by the wealth of sequin-clad pieces on offer—and all at an affordable price. Whatever the dress code for your next do, with a quick scroll of the site, you’ll soon be suitably decked out in sparkle, shimmer and sumptuous evening fabrics. From super-soft velvet to luxurious silk, the beloved high-street brand is embracing all things glitzy and glamorous this party season.

As I scrolled through the pages and pages of partywear, I realised it would be easy to create a standout evening look without having to leave M&S’s site. So naturally, that’s exactly what I did—in fact, I was having so much fun that I decided to keep going. Take a look down below at six ready-made outfits that are perfect for the upcoming festivities.

Style Notes: There aren’t many occasions that call for a gold dress, but a Christmas party is certainly one of them. Team this V-neck number with understated black accessories for a timeless festive look.

The waist belt nips in and creates a really flattering silhouette.

Velvet is to party season what linen is to summer.

Emerald + gold = a match made in heaven.

Just the right size for your phone, card and a red lipstick.

The criss-cross straps set these apart from your average black pumps.

Style Notes: Put on a statement blouse, and you’ll instantly look like you’ve made an effort. This green star-print top feels subtly festive, especially when paired with silver-toned sparkles.

I’d also wear this during the day with ecru jeans and chunky black boots.

Tie your hair back to really show these off.

This dreamy buckle pouch is also available in black.

Style Notes: This look is all about texture. Pair a fluid silk shirt with a structured leather miniskirt, adding just a hint of shimmer to keep things simple.

Midnight blue is one of my go-to shades for after-dark outings.

A staple necklace, whether you’ve got a calendar full of events or not.

There’s also a chain if you’d prefer to go hands-free.

This is a great winter boot, and not just for parties.

Style Notes: M&S has so many beautiful dresses this season, so it was hard to pick favourites—but my eye was immediately drawn to this sapphire blue midi, and the matching clutch sealed the deal.

Covered buttons make everything look so much more expensive.

Gold makes everything feel more Christmassy.

Metallic finishes are also very on-trend right now.

Style Notes: If your night out is likely to involve moving from venue to venue (say, dinner to drinks), you’ll need to think about layers. An embellished jacket will add to, not take away from, your carefully styled outfit.

The starburst beading will definitely catch your fellow partygoers’ eyes.

I also adore how M&S has styled this skirt.

A good party look doesn’t skimp on the details.

These thick-heeled shoes lend themselves to hours of dancing.

Style Notes: If you decide to go all-out on sequins, Marks and Spencer has got you covered. This fun co-ord comes in three shades, but the green is my top pick. Who wouldn’t want to look (and feel) like a Christmas tree?