5 Things Friday - The Party Edit

Okay, party might be stretching it - Christmas drinks and a few meals out? Me too, but I still want to dress up, without spending a fortune. Let's shop our wardrobe, with a few Christmassy extras!

So, the party season has begun and with it the need to dress for a variety of occasions. It’s a conundrum! Too overdressed, too underdressed, will I be comfortable, too hot, too cold… you get the gist. Along with all that, it’s really easy to be seduced by all the sparkle and glitz of Christmas but, without being a party pooper, how much wear will you get from that sequin jumpsuit? Personally, I could probably count on one hand my big nights out over Christmas. I’ve a girl’s night, a theatre trip, a few meals out with family and friends and my wedding anniversary. So my need for party clothes is minimal, but I do like to make an effort! With that in mind, I’ve created 5 looks that will see you through the party season and beyond and, most importantly, won’t mean you have to start from scratch. Good basics give you a great foundation for every occasion.

1. The Party Trousers

A few years ago I would never have been one for wearing trousers for going out but now, given that they’ve become a staple in my wardrobe, I think a wide leg or straight leg trouser is a great look for a relaxed chic vibe. Textures are the key to giving that little extra glam, whether it’s velvet, satin or sequins. If your trousers are the star of the show then everything else can be from your basics wardrobe, whether it’s a satin T-shirt, knitted jacket or black blazer.

Red is the colour of the moment and these Boden velvet trousers are the perfect festive piece. If you prefer a print, how about these rather fabulous Cos polka dot ones? Either would look fab with my standard go to, a cashmere rollneck, but I bought this H&M knitted cardigan in the autumn and think the gold button detail would look fab with these Arket kitten heel shoes, the Amazon designer dupe earrings and a little gold clutch.

2. The Party Skirt

Let’s not complicate the issue, a dressy skirt works just as well as the party trousers. I’m pretty sure by now you have either a satin or pleated skirt in your wardrobe. If not, then this River Island festive red one would work perfectly with the above edit if you’re not a trouser girl. Alternativey, this New Look silver satin one would work with the below edit. Personally, I love a pleated skirt - they’re easy to wear and style all year - and, both the John Lewis silver one (if you want some sparkle) or the Hush satin one (for a chic understated look), would be hard working items in your wardrobe.

There are two options you could go for with for this outfit. If you need a smart look for your festive do, then I’d wear a little cami and the Hush knitted jacket. Otherwise, if you’re looking for something a little cool and casual… then I’d wear my favorite Cos black tee-shirt and throw on my leather biker jacket - this River Island oversized one is really gorgeous. Then just go for it with silver accessories. The Cos silver tip shoes have my attention, plus this muted silver Mango bag, a big chunky necklace and some sparkly hoops. What I love about both these looks is that you can easily wear them when Christmas is over and each item would work on its own with other pieces in your wardrobe to create different outfits.