‘Tis the season to drink Prosecco and kick up your heels! Yes, it’s that time of year when the question, ‘what am I going to wear?’ is asked more frequently than ever. Dresses are an obvious choice, but what if you’re just over them? Maybe you’re bored of the party mini, or maybe you were never really much of a dress person in the first place? Luckily, you don’t have to go into hibernation for the next month; party dressing minus the dress isn’t as tricky as you may think – here’s how to do it.
Get an Evening Jumpsuit
Jumpsuits have come into their own in recent years. Once the reserve of the high-fashion set, the high street neglected to create jumpsuits that could be worn by everyone. And if you were petite, well, you had no chance!
Today though, jumpsuits are as commonplace as dresses, and come in a similarly vast array of styles. The best thing about them though, is that they’ve still got that high-fashion appeal – without the price tag! Now, the high street is awash with catwalk-ready jumpsuits that are perfect for party dressing. Embellished, sequinned or lace accents make today’s jumpsuits ideal for big nights out; trust us, every wardrobe needs at least one to really modernise their party wardrobe. The key is to make sure yours fits you just right; if needs be, take it to a tailor.
Or a Party-Ready Playsuit
Just like jumpsuits, playsuits have been given a makeover in the past decade or so. In fact, they’ve become a staple of every wardrobe – and a must for nights out, whether it’s summer or not. Re-purpose your going-out playsuits by wearing them with opaque tights. Choose something with long sleeves for cooler weather and accessorise with a pair of killer heels.
Sharpen Up in a Trouser Suit
With this summer’s 80s trend still going strong, it’s no surprise that power dressing has become the new party dressing. The sharp-shouldered, masculine silhouettes first debuted in Working Girl have been softened with sumptuous fabrics and a more relaxed approach to styling. This trend isn’t about being conservative; avoid looking stuffy by wearing your suit jacket over a pared back top or blouse, and accessorise with modern, minimalist jewellery. Experiment with cut, colour and fabric too, so as to differentiate between your office and party looks.
Wear Christmassy Cami Tops
There’s no better time to really show off your statement tops than at Christmas; sparkle like the fairy on your tree by wearing something opulently embellished (and ideally, very sequinned!). Balance your stand-out top half by wearing something more subtle on your bottom half. A pair of plain or pleated wide leg trousers will give your look a slightly formal (yet fabulous) finish; perfect for the office Christmas party!
And On-Trend Trousers
Take your look from casual to cocktail hour by trading your jeans in for something with a little more finesse. Smart trousers are ideal alternatives to dresses; they’re just as easy to wear and are a totally chic option – whether you’re hitting the bar or the dance floor.
Choose a style that’s going to flatter your frame; high-waisted trousers, for example, are a great option for those with an athletic figure, since they draw attention to the waist (duh!) and create the illusion of curves. If you’re petite, straight-leg trousers will add length without swamping your lower half, whilst mid-rise, tapered trousers complement plus-sizes. If you’re plus-sized, a wide leg could overpower your look; skinny cut trousers can create imbalanced proportions. Wide leg trousers best suit those who have a fuller mid-section, because they elongate the silhouette. When in doubt though, go for a wide leg pair; they’re the most universally flattering option.
