The Christmas lights have been turned on and there’s the scent of mulled wine in the air: yep, it’s officially the festive season and your diary is undoubtedly filling up with parties, dinners, and drinks to celebrate the most magical time of the year.
And, if you’ve been wondering what to wear to all these events fret no more, as I’ve pulled together a failsafe list of the best dresses you need to party in style. Yep, I’m talking satin, sparkles and of course sequins, all sure to get you party ready.
Chic Christmas party dresses to buy now
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The sequin dress
Nothing says Christmas has arrived quite like a sequin dress so it’s a great place to start when planning the perfect party ensemble.
When it comes to finding a great sequin number, I’d suggest going for something classic you can reach for year after year. You see not only are sequins a festive season must-have but, as sequins are not the most sustainable buy, investing in a style that can remain in your wardrobe can help reduce their environmental effect, too.
Brands like ASOS and Warehouse have some amazing options in classic cuts that still feel luxe.
On the other hand, if you haven’t tried a dress rental service yet, your next Christmas event is the perfect occasion to do so. I’d head straight to Hurr or By Rotation and check out the queen of sequins Nadine Merabi to rent something truly special for a fraction of the designer price tag. Because hey, if you can’t go all out at Christmas when can you?
The best sparkly dresses to buy now
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The LBD
The classic LBD is my go-to party look and Christmas is no exception. If you’re lucky enough to have an arsenal of different styles in your wardrobe to choose from, it’s useful to tailor your LBD to your chosen event. For more formal work affairs, a black blazer dress and court heels feel smart and sophisticated. Plus, there are some great embellished options around that’ll still tap into the party vibes.
For Christmas drinks, a black velvet mini or satin slip dress will look equally as great in a bar as on the dancefloor if things happen to take a turn. Heading for dinner before the party? A tiered midi is the perfect do-it-all dress that feels great and look effortless.
To finish your look the accessory possibilities are endless. Matching black will always look chic as will metallic tones, or for a pop of colour try neon accessories. My pick? A diamante baguette bag and matching heels is a fun nod to the Y2K trend.
The best LBDs on the high street right now
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The metallic dress
It’s the season of sparkle so what better time to wear a high shine metallic christmas party dress. When choosing your party fit, it’s important to think about the tone: if you’re a diehard gold jewellery or silver jewellery wearer stick to what you know and go for a dress that matches for a polished look.
On the other hand, if you’re less consistent with your jewels, try clashing both silver and gold tones together for an interesting contrast.
When it comes to accessories, avoid black which can look harsh and overpowering against the metal tones, and instead opt for matching silver or gold for top-to-toe shine.
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The satin dress
Whether you go for a slip dress, wrap dress or 90s-inspired cami dress, satin or silk is a failsafe win for party season. If you’re looking to invest in a piece that’ll last for seasons to come, opt for silk – it may be more expensive but it’s more durable when cared for correctly so you can buy it now and love it forever.
On the other hand, if you plan to wear your dress once and then pop it on Vinted, satin is a great option that still looks great but will leave more change for that extra glass of Champagne.
If you want to avoid feeling too Christmas cliché, I’d stay away from traditional festive shades like forest green and burgundy, and instead go for brighter tones like fuchsia, lime or turquoise. While they may feel like more summery colours, when worn with layers of gold jewellery and a pair of platform heels they give a much cooler take on Christmas party dressing.
The best satin dresses to buy now
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The embellished dress
If you want a real showstopper dress, then look no further than an OTT embellished number. Details like feathers, beading and cluster sequins take these styles to the next level, so they’re not for the fashion faint-hearted.
If you’re opting for a statement christmas party dress like these, keep your accessories simple and let the dress take centre stage.
A pair of strappy heels and a mini top handle bag are all you need to finish the look off perfectly. I’d also pop my hair into a low slicked back bun for added drama and to ensure it’s all about the outfit – after all if you go this big you may as well own it.
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