Whether you’re debating how early is too early to put up your Christmas tree or happily tucking into a (couple) of mince pies, party season is officially back with a bang. As if over night, our social calendars have gone from lazy weekends to work drinks, early nights to all-nighters, and before we know it, we’ll be all booked up. Not that we’re complaining, though. After a couple of years of quiet Christmases, 2022 is the year to go all out.
There’s no better time of year to dress up and show out than the festive period, and in the months between November and New Year’s, you’ll find us in a particularly special collection of clothes designed to shake off the seasonal blues. Sequin dresses, strokeably soft velvets and plenty of sparkly accessories are guaranteed to bring out your inner party animal (we sure have missed it), but where do you begin when putting together the right party outfit? I think I’ve found the answer.
Before you book your taxi, let’s get to the good part: outfit planning. Each event requires a slightly different kind of outfit. For example, the fun, cocktail party dress might be a little bit much for the intimate family dinner. (Although, I will always advocate for glitter.) So in order to help you put together a look for the big night ahead, I’ve assembled five outfits that will have you covered for everything from getting Christmas drinks with friends to seeing in the New Year. So sit back, relax, and scroll through the gallery below for the only five party outfit ideas you’ll need this winter.
A sleek, slinky, understated option that’s the perfect base for accessorising.
Black “barely there” heels are wardrobe heroes. They’ll go with just about everything you already own.
Dress it up, or wear with a simple white tee and jeans.
There’s a red lipstick for every skin tone, style and budget, but Givenchy’s Le Rouge is a great all-rounder.
Get into the sprit of the season of giving with a gift-wrapped present to you, from you.
Black blazers? Been there, done that. Try bright white to make a standout statement.
Not all that glitters is gold, we’re particularly taken with silver crystals too.
Upgrade a pair of simple black pumps with a dressy crystal anklet. ‘Tis the season.
When clutch bags feel a little dated, swap it for a mini bucket bag, particularly one with a luxe, velvet finish.
Up the sparkle factor with an art deco drop earring.
Jumpsuit sceptics, this one is for you. A well-tailored, rich velvet jumpsuit that even the most dress-devoted shopper will love.
Twenty-four-karat glamour guaranteed to invite compliments.
Another chic evening bag alternative: the pouch. You’ll never be boxed in by clutches again.
Looking for something really special? Messika is a specialist in luxury and high jewellery with contemporary edge.
Suit up in a structured blazer in sumptuous velvet and a deep jewel tone.
When it comes to trousers, we have to say the wider, the better. And the Bianca wide-leg has plenty of retro appeal.
It’s easy to see why Terry de Havilland is the reigning king of party platforms.
Head to Zara for more fun party bags like these at a good price.
It doesn’t get more opulent than gold and pearls. They’ll always make a simple outfit feel special.
Winter will be here soon, so wrap up in a wool coat elegant enough for evening too.
When the first ruffled dresses dropped in Mango over summer, they sold out almost immediately, so act fast to get this maxi.
You can’t discuss party without mentioning Christian Louboutin, the ultimate celebration shoes in mood-boosting colours.
The best accompaniment to a spaghetti-strap dress is a shoulder-grazing drop earring.
Amina Muaddi doesn’t just make good shoes. She make conversation-starting bags, too.
