Nothing says festive glamor more than a big helping of sequins and glitter. And if there’s one woman who knows how to wear them (and still look chic), it’s Laury Smith.
The British celebrity stylist is the fashion force behind Tess Daly’s stunning looks in the latest series of BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing. So what’s it like dressing one of the most glamorous women on television?
“We had a lot of fun testing,” Smith says. “Tess has her own sense of style and knows what she likes, so it’s all about finding unique pieces that she loves and that also look great on screen.”
Mission accomplished. Strictly may be known for its camp kitsch, but Daly, 55, has cut a noticeably more sophisticated figure this season in a series of chic va-va-voom ensembles.
‘Studio 54 was a great reference point. Especially when it comes to the jumpsuits we’ve made, like the navy sequin all-in-one (in week three) from Australian brand Nookie,” says Smith.
This is the first season of Strictly that Smith has worked on, and her goal has been to guide the presenter towards a more avant-garde look:
“Obviously Strictly itself is really entertaining, so I wanted to dress Tess to complement the staging and set, but at the same time choose outfits that looked cool and not too dressy.”
Standout looks include a red tailored jumpsuit by Alexander McQueen and a hot pink velvet suit by Nissa.
Glitter ball: Tess Daly sparkles in latest series of Strictly Come Dancing
Jumpsuit, £89, sosandar.com; jacket, £260, nrbyclothing.com; shoes, typical of the model
Trousers, £55 and top, £35, marksandspencer.com; shoes, model ow
But best of all is the glitz and glamour: the perfect inspiration for a last-minute party. And you don’t have to spend a fortune to find a stylish glow. M&S, Karen Millen and H&M are among Smith’s favorites on the High Street.
Is there an age limit to wear glitter? ‘There are no rules. I don’t think anything has to be “age appropriate.” As long as it suits you and your body shape, it doesn’t matter. Go for it.’
Here are Laury’s five rules for finding sequins that will put you in the spotlight…
OPTION FOR NEUTRALS
A little well-placed glitter can create a youthful glow that enhances the complexion; It all comes down to choosing the right color.
“A champagne tone suits most skin tones,” says Smith, who recommends the bright Sosandar suit (jacket, £110; trousers, £69, sosandar.com) that Tess wore in week five as an option flattering:
‘The boyfriend cut makes it look more relaxed. It’s easy to pair with a chunky cream knit sweater or a white t-shirt.
Opting for neutral colors has additional benefits: ‘You don’t necessarily have to avoid bright colors, but muted tones are easier to wear because they match better with the rest of the clothes in your wardrobe.
Jumpsuit, £95, sosandar.com; shoes, £189, kurtgeiger.com
Dress, £35, tesco.com; shoes, £249, lkbennett.com
‘Silver, gold and lighter tones also look great in summer, and black can be worn in any season. The reds and greens are more Christmassy.
“Less is more when it comes to shine, so a simpler palette appears more refined and a little fresher.”
To that end, Smith cautions against using patterned sequins: “They look too busy.”
GET RID OF THE DRESS
To extend the life of your sparkles, Smith recommends a bedazzled jumpsuit instead of a dress:
‘You get your money’s worth with a jumpsuit as you can wear it in more ways than any other piece of clothing. Dress it up with a heel and a jacket, or with a knit and a pair of sneakers.
Look to Alice + Olivia for the stunning silver number Daly wore during Strictly Blackpool weekend, if you’re willing to splurge (£825, farfetch.com). It’s a guaranteed ticket for New Year’s Eve.
For a more approachable version, indulge in sparkle and shine with Smith’s fail-safe formula: “A modern sequin jacket dressed up with jeans and boots is a sure-fire way to go if you’re nervous.”
Busby & Fox’s silver jacket (£169, busbyandfox.com) and Mint Velvet’s black fringe bolero (£125, mintvelvet.com) are Smith’s picks of the season.
Dress, £96.60, lavishalice.com; shoes, £249, lkbennett.com
Dress, £345, rixolondon.com; shoes, £185, kurtgeiger.com
ADD GLAMURANT ACCESSORIES
With accessories, go for a more subtle shine. Smith likes Cos’s silver sequin clutch (£75, cos.com) and Kurt Geiger’s black crystal-embellished platforms (second from right), which she would wear to liven up classic cocktail tailoring.
The other style mistake to avoid is over-accessorizing: “Highlight your jewelry when you shine and let the sequins do the talking.” Keep your chunky gold jewelry and other statement pieces for a simple ensemble.’
When styling Daly, Smith says she pairs sequin ensembles with small diamond earrings: “You probably won’t notice Tess’ jewelry on TV, but those details are important as they complete her look.”
GIVE AN ADVANCE TO THE OFFERS
If the item is cheaper, you can make it look more expensive with a luxury shoe and bag.
“I always think that a good dryer also makes an outfit look more expensive,” says Smith.
Mixing more than one embellishment is a fashion faux pas: ‘A sparkly top under a sequin jacket cheapens the look.
“Decide what type of glitter you’re going to use (beads, crystal, sequins) and stick to that.”
Dress, £324, maje.com; jumper, £130, mintvelvet.com; shoes, £45.99, mango.com
NEVER SKIP TRAINING
“Shapewear is always a must for my clients,” says Smith. “A pair of high-waisted thong pants will support your tummy. Wacoal has the best selection.”
For added perkiness under lower necklines, Smith uses Boux Avenue self-adhesive tape: “You just put tape under your breasts and up to your shoulders and it gives you a great lift.”