It’s that time of year again when we have the opportunity to sparkle – and really enjoy getting dressed up. Hurrah!
As the invitations roll in, it’s time to bring out those glamorous, wonderful staples of the festive season: sequins, feathers, lace, satin and silk.
As a fashion columnist and writer with years of experience in the industry, I love the joy dressing up at this time of year brings me. But I know that with so other many demands placed on us from work and family, it can be stressful.
It’s also difficult to find the time to scroll and search for all these lovely things to wear.
As the invitations roll in, it’s time to bring out the glamour, says fashion writer Joanne Hegarty
That’s why I have prepared the ultimate festive list of perfectly perfect finds that will help you dress for EVERY occasion this particularly busy time of year.
I’ve pored over, carefully researched and selected every piece to really whittle out the best of the goodies… and showed how I’d style them, too.
Enjoy!
THE OFFICE PARTY
Don’t settle for a boring dress or spend a fortune – instead stand out in these £29.99 sequin lace trousers from Zara which I have tried and tested. They look extremely flattering and sexy on and are a perfect pairing with heels and a velvet blazer.
No need to spend a fortune, these sequin lace trousers and black velvet jacket are a perfect office party pairing
When searching for a velvet blazer (an easy-to-wear and versatile staple this time of year) ensure it has structure with padded shoulders like this one from M&S again a bargain at just £79.
Or this luxurious burgundy one from Cefinn – another good go to for quality velvet trouser suits. Size up as they come up small – the trousers are lovely, too.
Good quality velvet is always a treat to wear and this suit from Cefinn’s festive collection is a winner, says Joanne
Or if it’s a really fancy do, then shimmer and shine in this striking red sequin number from Self-Portrait which could double up for New Year’s Eve. It also comes in a white sequin.
CHRISTMAS DAY
I like this simple warm white dress in a shimmery satin from Cos. It works because you can cook and host in it but still look glamorous. I would style it with some patterned 20- denier tights like the ones I mention here a little further down.
If you desire something a little more cosy I adore this brushed cashmere top from Soft Goat in a rich red.
You can go for cosy or glam this Christmas, with a seasonal palette including rich red from Soft Goat
Layer over this satin slip from Joseph which can be styled many different ways over the festive season.
Or kiss under the mistletoe in this sequin skirt from French label Sézane, complemented by this contrasting cosy wool cardigan with gold buttons.
FANCY CHRISTMAS COCKTAIL PARTY
During the festive period, a pair of sequin trousers never fail. I like to pair them with a velvet blazer (See Office Party) or a simple black top to balance it out . Remember one statement piece is enough for any outfit .
Here are three good options – a silver pleated pair and a black velvet pair from Mint Velvet, and a cream pair from Needle and Thread.
This lace dress from Mint Velvet is also very chic and another lovely alternative for a drinks party. Add a pair of sparkly earrings and heels or red velvet Mary Janes to finish off the look.
This chic, black lace dress from Mint Velvet will make a versatile addition to your wardrobe
HOSTING DINNER AT YOURS
A terrific staple to have in your wardrobe this time of year is a pair of satin trousers because they look dressy with minimum effort. Team with festive tops like these – sparkle and feathers from Mint Velvet or sequins from Zara.
What better than a festive top with sparkle and feathers to get you in a Christmassy mood
MIDNIGHT MASS
For midnight mass these flared trousers which (hallelujah – excuse the pun!) come in short, regular and long, tick all the boxes. Remember churches are cold! Wear with a matching blazer for a sleek look. This suit can also serve as an outfit for hosting drinks, going to drinks. Its potential is endless.
And add a festive pop with these great silver ankle booties.
Add a pop of silver to the proceedings with silver ankle boots from Mint Velvet
Or this white A-line skirt from Toteme is a terrific combination of glamour and sophistication. Style it with a cashmere knit or this cropped Fair Isle cardigan and boots – or this Christmasy knit from M&S.
COSY CHRISTMAS DAY WALK
A Christmas jumper is mandatory for Boxing Day walks but why not make it stylish.
This forest green cashmere one from Cos is heaven and is a terrific alternative to the Row’s Ophelia knit that comes with a hefty price tag.
Or if you’re heart desires something more festive – this Fair Isle comes with all the vibes
The Boxing Day walk is a tradition for many families across the UK and a Fair Isle sweater will keep you nice and toasty
Team them with snug and comfy leggings such as these for that long walk to the local pub.
Finish off with some warm socks from one of my favourite sock brands Falke and boots such as these comfy riding ones from Penelope Chivers.
Or these stylish ones from Spanish High-Sreet favourite Massimo Dutti – these dreamy luxury Khaite Marfa knee highs which are incredibly soft are another great alternative.
This time of year a Reiss stylish puffer coat or this season’s Nili Lotan wax jackets come into play more than any other. I’ve linked two of my favourites.
And is a Christmas walk even a Christmas walk without a sprinkle of Barbour?
I have also recently discovered the most flattering pair of jeans that I must share with you: the low slung barrel jeans from Frame.
.… AND LOUNGING AT HOME
One of the great joys of the festive period as we all know is spending more time at home unwinding in pjs and lounge wear. A stylish pj set brings joy to the heart… and relief to the waistband.
The queen of luxury pyjamas Olivia Von Halle has so many gorgeous sets like these gold panther silk ones. So dreamy right?
Even if you are lounging at home, make a style statement with gold panther pyjamas
For more affordable options, check these elasticated waist options when you feel that you’ve over-indulged on the Christmas pudding.
This lounge wear set is perfect for sitting around in or for the mandatory dog walk if you have to leave the sofa.
NEW YEAR SPARKLE
This sequin and sheer trouser set from Zara is something a little different to celebrate the new year.
If you’re staying at home at new year but still want to make the effort, this sparkling knit dress is the perfect option. Style with pattern opaque tights and statement earrings.
For absolute high octane knock out glamour 16 Arlington is always a good port of call – like this glorious dress.
I love the richness and depth of burgundy and this satin pleat tailored trouser and matching waistcoat option is very stylish. Perfect for sipping champagne in.
CHRISTMAS ON THE BEACH
If you are lucky enough to be heading to the sun this Christmas, I love these matching sets from Toteme.
And their swimwear is a delight to wear. I bought a pair during the summer and couldn’t get enough of their soft and flattering shape.
WNU also do wonder shirt and boxer sets which are equally stylish and comfy. Perfect for lounging on your Christmas hammock – you lucky thing !
Mix your textures and team sparkle with velvet to welcome the new year with elegance and style
THE FINISHING TOUCHES
All these joyful festive choices need the cherry on top. The accessories. You can team any of these outfits with my suggestions below.
TIGHTS: Add more interest with a pair of 20-denier pattern tights. These look very sexy and alluring under any dress.
HEELS: Over time and too much pain I have learnt that the perfect heel is 2.5. Enough height but you can still walk in a comfortable manner. I have no time for sore feet anymore . Here are some favourites close to my sole: A crystal pair, a snake pair, and a metallic pair.
Or a block heel is another option.
STYLISH FLATS: You can’t go wrong with some loafers – You can’t go wrong with some loafers – these are comfortable and special – or a little Mary Jane or a gorgeous ballet flat.
CLUTCH: No other time of the year does a clutch shine so bright .
Style your fabulous outfits with some of these options – the gold strap one, a designer darling or this lovely ladylike style – ask for one of them under the Christmas tree. I would also love one of these suede clutches from this beautiful Italian brand on Christmas morning or make a statement with one of these sparkly ones from Cos.
EARRINGS: Nobody does sparkling statement earrings like Soru. These are my favourites from their vast collection.
Sézane have also recently upped their costume jewellery game.
So without further ado go forth and sparkle and have a wonderful time dressing up!
