It’s the party season and bunches of mistletoe are hanging haphazardly everywhere, just waiting for kisses and good times to occur.
If you’re gearing up for a sophisticated wine and cheese evening, or a night out on the tiles with friends, a work office ‘do or a family set-up blind date, it can be a nightmare trying to decide what to wear.
To keep things simple, determine whether the occasion calls for casual, smart or formal and then follow our quick guide to looking fab this party season.
Ladies
Casual
It has to be the fabled Christmas jumper! Go as outrageous or as simple as you fancy, whether you channel the full tinsel-bedecked, sewn-in LEDs Rudolph number or an elegant berry coloured cashmere number. Style with comfy leggings, a piece of sparkly jewelry and warm flat boots.
Smart
Think tailoring and fun details like a peplum or trumpet hem (not together!) Whether you go with a dress or separates, stick to rich, deep colours and dress up your outfit with jewelry, shoes and a sparkly jacket. Maybe try a different parting or small hairstyle change.
Formal
For this dress code, think jewel tones; floor sweeping gowns or an exquisitely cut woman’s tux. Play with fabrics that scream luxe, like velvet, satin, silk and brocade. Add jewels, beautifully blow dried hair and complementary shoes.
Men
Casual
Same as the ladies, I am all in favour of the Christmas jumper for a bit of casual cheer. Go silly with a Christmas pudding print jumper or keep it classy with a Fairisle print knit in subdued colours. Pair with comfy dark jeans and loafers.
Smart
Pressed suit trousers in charcoal grey or dark navy, with a matching jacket. Have fun when it comes to your shirt by playing with colour. A deep burgandy, a pattern or a cream shirt would all be a twist on the norm. Add smart shoes, cufflinks and belt.
Formal
I’m presuming evening formal here, so go with a tux or a dinner jacket (maybe check with some other’s to find out what they are wearing before investing). Crisp, white shirt, smart black shoes and well-cut tailoring never fail to attract attention.