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Christmas parties and events are complicated, from a clothing point of view.
You want to have a little fun with your look, but you also don’t want to be the only person wearing head-to-toe sequins when the rest of the room has opted for sleek black dresses with a touch of sparkle.
Fortunately, there’s a foolproof formula that experts use to make an impact without looking overdressed.
Whether it’s a few work drinks at the pub or a fancy cocktail, you’ll always look perfect (and you won’t have to buy anything new… unless you want to, of course).
The secret? Build your outfit around three key elements: something eye-catching, something formal, and something casual. You can see our examples below, with the formula detailed below each image.
The casual element is the most important here, as it gives off a subtle “cool girl” vibe that balances your look. Think a dazzling metallic jacket paired with a sleek skirt and comfortable loafers. Or a striking sequin skirt, paired with a crisp white shirt, for casual appeal with a cozy wool jacket.
Of course, this trick doesn’t work for all occasions. If you have a gala event or wedding on the horizon, then making an effort is not only respectful but also de rigueur. But for everything else, you can’t go wrong when you dress up to dress up…
metallic glare
Metallic jacket + Leather dress skirt + Ballerinas
NEXT Metallic Jacket, $229; Sofia Irina leather skirt, $489; and Sandler flat loafers $169.95
This jacket has all the oomph you need at a party – it’s a major statement.
Add an elegant leather skirt for a formal and refined touch; then finish with some simple loafers and you’ll be ready to dance the night away.
bold bling
Pompom necklace + Velvet pants + Casual sweater
Belle & Bloom velvet pants, $129.95; and chunky bead necklace from COS, $99
The oldest styling trick in the book is adding a statement accessory to a simple look.
The Pom Pom Necklace from Essentiel Antwerp, or something similar like the Chunky Bead Necklace from COS, adds all the interest you need to liven up your outfit. Swap them out for chandelier earrings or a chunky cocktail ring if you prefer.
Spectacular scarlet
Cocktail dress + Elegant coat + Flat boots
Tussah dress, $169.95; and Belle & Bloom floors, $149.95
Flat shoes or boots make things much simpler. Pair a fabulous dress with flat shoes and even add a classic coat, which will match many party looks.
Fabulous denim and feathers
Sequin Shirt + Cool Jeans + Slingbacks
Zara sequin top, $75.95; and jeans with assembly tag, $120
Keeping things practical is the most important thing this Christmas. And whether it’s a boot or a barrel, flared or fitted, denim delivers, whatever the occasion.
Christmas jumpers are comfortable, but only a handful are worn in December. Change it up with a dazzling sequin top, like this one from Zara.
Stunning sequins
Flawless Shirt + Sequin Skirt + Cozy Jacket
Seed Heritage Sequin Skirt, $69.95; and CAMIXA white shirt, $79.90
A sparkly addition always feels good this time of year, but looking like a Christmas tree is simply trying too hard.
If you opt for this sequin skirt, keep the rest of your outfit simple by pairing it with a crisp white shirt and a neutral casual jacket to balance your look. It reduces the shine, it’s still there, but no need to overdo it…
Large Power Boots
Sweater dress + Elegant belt + Metallic boots
NEXT dress, $71; and metallic Princess Highway boots, $43.60
Carrying almost nothing and shaking at the bus stop is a thing of the past. Get cozy in a jersey-style dress and you can even wear thermals underneath.
This dress is also dressy enough for the office. Add a formal belt and statement boots to give it all the oomph you need at a party.