It’s official, Christmas party season is here, and it wasn’t a soft launch, either. It arrived main character style – with glitter, shimmer and festive invites, letting us know it’s time to pull out all of the stops.
Typically, partywear reflects the ‘more is more’ sentiment and whilst most party outfits lean towards dressier types, there’s room for party tops pairings to shine. The ‘nice top’ search has been activated and the Christmassy equivalent is the very nice top, crafted from mirrored appliquès, supple fabrications, metals, glitter, lurex, and exposed detailing.
Going-out tops are amongst the most-searched-for criteria at the moment and the high street most definitely heard the cries of non-dress fans, as the offerings of party tops are impressive. Christmas starts prematurely in the fashion industry, and I’ve seen top-half options become fancier by the month.
The best party tops of the season
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It’s also worth thinking about the longevity of partywear in your wardrobe. The rental market is booming and for good reason. As per Bianca’s mantra, renting partywear is a cost-effective and sustainable way to play dress-up. Hurr and By Rotation have a vast selection of going-out tops if you’re after a unique piece for a special occasion.
More on partywear
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- Your ultimate Christmas party outfit inspiration
- What to wear for every New Year’s Eve scenario, from a club night to firework-watching
- The best party shoes to amp up any outfit
- 35 statement jewellery pieces that’ll add all the sparkle this party season
- Sequin season is coming – here are the best styles to buy before they sell out
However, if like me you’re looking for a nice top to span years of wear in your wardrobe, keep reading for my edit of party tops. There’s something for everyone – from minimalists to lovers of festive sparkle. Which camp are you in?
1. Ghospell Emory Stich Top, £39
Ghospell produces many elevated designs – like their Emory stitch top. Wear it with dark denim and gold ankle-strap platform heels for an instant party look.
2. & Other Stories Bustier Cropped Top, £85
Bustier – check. Blouson sleeves – check. Boned bodice – check. It’s the ultimate party version of the poplin shirt. It’ll look equally chic with jeans or tailored trousers.
3. COS Tie Back Long-Sleeved Top, £59
This is my favourite top on the high street at the moment – just look at that back detail! Pair it with jeans, slingback heels and dangly earrings. If you have long hair, a slick low bun will work perfectly.
4. Aligne Garrie Cut Out Body, £30
The cut-out trend has dominated the fashion world this year and this big o-shaped cut-out makes for a dressy piece. It’s the perfect choice for minimalists who want to dress up a little whilst adhering to their aesthetic.
5. Arket Crochet Halter Top, £45
Although crochet was a firm favourite this summer the intrigue of twisted yarns makes a good party piece. Team it with denim and tan accessories to embrace the ‘70s aesthetic.
6. Mango Pearls Decorative T-shirt, £23
The decorative pearl beading is a little touch of je ne sais quoi, to dress up an otherwise simple top. Tuck it into trousers or jeans and wear it with sparkly heels to offset the glamour.
7. Source Unknown Twisted Coffee Top, £75
A slightly steeper option than the high street, but it boasts a high-end look and similar aesthetic to the likes of directional designers like Nanushka.
8. & Other Stories Cropped One Shoulder Top, £35
This piece looks much more premium than its price point. It’s a perfect example of an occasion top that you can extend the wear out of throughout the year. It’s also crafted from Naia – a more sustainable (and biodegradable material) made from pine and eucalyptus pulp.
9. Dissh Bubble Crop Top, $75
Pair this with the matching full skirt for an immediate party look or with ecru denim if you want something low-key. This olive hue was made for gold jewels, so pile them high.
10. Nobodys Child Rosetta Ring Detail Top, £35
The twisted keyhole neck is a subtle detail if you’re after something understated. It’s also figure-forming, so wonderful for tucking into bottoms.
Party trousers to wear with cute tops this season:
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11. Sisterhood Xoey Knit, £60
The gold v-shaped bust detailing calls for gold earrings. Tuck the length into straight-leg jeans.
12. Amy Lynn Alexa Top, £28
The ruched bodice and tie strap detail adds an element of intrigue. It’s also a piece you can squeeze wear out of throughout the year.
13. Nobodys Child Helena Cami, £26
The party season is when the slinky cami comes to life, particularly for those who aren’t fans of the bells and whistles style of dressing. You can wear this top with jeans, gold platform heels and jewels galore for the ultimate top-to-toe party look. Alternatively, pair it with matching trousers and a blazer for a monochromatic look.
14. Warehouse Satin High Neck Pleat Blouse, £63
There’s something very luxe about this top. The cowl neckline, movement and metallic hue is apt for the party season.
15. Rixo Silvana Glitter Star Blouse, £175
The style evokes a ‘90s nostalgia perhaps because I had similar party tops in the noughties – shooting stars and all. Couple it with extended drop earrings and cool-toned eye makeup for a chic, statement look.
16. Mint Velvet Feather Cuff Shirt, £99
Feather adornments have been highly coveted since the release of Sleeper’s feather pyjamas and thanks to brands like Mint Velvet, we can celebrate this party style at a more attainable price point. I particularly like that this is made with cotton (which lends an oversized silhouette) juxtaposed with the bold playful sleeves. Wear it with split-leg leggings and classic slingback shoes for dates or cocktail parties.
17. COS High Neck Ribbed Top, £59
It’s glitzy, whilst offering full coverage in the arms, so a contender if you’re looking for a party-worthy yet modest piece.
18. Arket Silk Pyjama Shirt, £89
Silk shirts can be worn in many ways. You can integrate them into party looks with blingy accessories.
19. Hurr 16 Arlington Black Feather Top, rent from £66
Why not rent a party top this year? Especially if it’s a piece you don’t think you’ll get much wear out of. 16 Arlington pieces are particularly special. I have my eye on a piece for an upcoming Christmas party!
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