Christmas fashion

It’s no secret that sequins and sparkle are ideal for the party season, but this Christmas why not add an unexpected pop of colour to your outfit? From ruby rose to emerald green or even a sharp citrine, the gemstone shades make for a perfect party look.

Sometimes the thought of arms being exposed can fill people with fashion fear but there are plenty of affordable evening looks to suit all shapes and sizes. Go for an oversized puff sleeve if you want to keep your upper arm hidden or show them off in a spaghetti-strap style. Whatever you choose, you’re sure to dazzle on the dance floor.

Cindy wears: Stole, £27.25, JD Williams; Joanna Hope top, £22, Simply Be; trousers, £39.50, Marks & Spencer; earrings, £9.99, New Look; bag, £24, Next
Jenny wears: Blazer, £159, and trousers, £129, both Karen Millen; bag, £25, Marks & Spencer

Invest in an all-out sequin suit that you could wear on its own for maximum impact or use the two pieces separately as part of a versatile party wardrobe. The blazer will instantly elevate a classic black dress and the trousers would look stylish with a simple silk blouse. 

A mix of textures adds interest to any outfit; faux fur, sequins and velvet make for a great combination. A chic stole worn across the shoulders not only adds a softer look but can also help to balance out wider hips for a more even silhouette.

Cindy wears: Jacket, £209, Coast; dress, £65, Next; earrings, £19, Whistles
Jenny wears: Top, £22, Simply Be; trousers, £129, Coast; earrings, £29, Phase Eight

Draw on inspiration from the decadent decades such as the roaring Twenties, where fringing, embellishment and feather details were plentiful. Subtle hues such as pale pink, silver and mink flatter most skin tones whilst soft textures such as feather add a feeling of opulence.  

A pair of high-waisted trousers will elongate any figure, flattering those who are tall and adding the illusion of longer legs to those who are more petite. A wide leg style streamlines bigger thighs and be sure to look for a pair with a pleat or dart down the front as the vertical line is super flattering.

Cindy wears: Shirt, £29.50, Marks & Spencer; skirt, £19, Matalan; shoes, £69, Coast; bag, £28, Next
Jenny wears: Blouse, £89.99, Zara; trousers, £34.99, H&M; sandals, £39, Next; earrings, £15, Betty & Biddy; bag, £29, Simply Be

Colour blocking or monochrome dressing is still a big trend. Find two flattering shades to pair together, such as pink and lilac, orange and turquoise or purple and red. It’s a great way to add some personality to your style whilst making a statement at the same time. Keep accessories to a minimum and in the same colour palette to avoid an overly busy outfit.

Details on the neckline such as statement jewellery, an oversized collar or pussy bow tie are a great way of drawing the eye up and away from problem areas and also add a feminine touch to any look. 

Jenny wears: M&S x Ghost dress, to hire from a selection at hirestreetuk.com; shoes, £35, Simply Be; earrings, £14, Lovisa; small hoop earring, model’s own; ring, £25, eandejewellery.com; bag, £13, Matalan
Cindy wears: M&S x Lavish Alice dress, to hire from a selection at hirestreetuk.com; necklace, £19, adelfilondon.com; shoes, £165, Dune London; ring, model’s own

With party wear, the added embellishment or more luxe fabric can sometimes make for a hefty price tag. So if you’re hesitant on splashing out, or know you will only wear it once, renting an outfit could be a great alternative. There are lots of places now such as Hurr, By Rotation, and Cloan that offer the chance to borrow a designer dress for a fraction of their usual cost. Even big names on the high street such as Marks & Spencer and John Lewis are jumping on the hire bandwagon, making dressing up for a good shindig a breeze!