Q&A: How Should I Dress for Party Season?
No sequins necessary.
Every month I invite paying subscribers to ask me a question. Something they’d love to know about style or a very particular piece of advice. This month, I got a very timely ask. As we enter Christmas party season, work drinks, annual catch-ups with old friends and various family get-togethers, it was centred on the tricky styling conundrum of what to wear.
The question this month is… “I always struggle with knowing what to wear for party season and more formal occasions. Any tips?”
At this time of year, it can be tempting to get sucked into the sequins and sparkles that are rammed down our throats. But not only are sequins and glitter damaging to our environment, a lot of us (me included) just aren’t those kinds of people. I’m a big believer in staying true to your personal style throughout the year, no matter what the season or occasion, and simply tweaking it depending on what you’re doing.
For party season, that means choosing the pieces you love that are slightly smarter or more elevated and adding extras like a piece of statement jewellery, bold makeup or doing your hair in a way that makes you feel really put together. Look for nice fabrics here - velvet, if you like it, is always good this time of year, as is silk or structured wool.
Below are three looks I’m planning for a few different events this party season, with a few alternative pieces thrown in for good measure. All are pieces that I would wear on a non-event basis (except maybe the heels, which are only brought out for a few occasions a year) and are in line with my personal style - just in slightly different combinations to make them party-appropriate. It means I’m not buying new pieces purely for this time of year, only for them to get stored away and maybe worn once again next year.
For a party or cocktail night
