It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas. The Coca-Cola advert is back on TV, red cups have arrived at Starbucks, mince pies have returned as a staple in your daily diet, and you’re spending more time ‘mit stein’ at the Christkindlmarkt than you are at the library. It also means we’re entering the party season with the remains of our student loans virtually non-existent. Instead of getting all bah humbug, let us shed some light and share our savvy shopping tips so that belles, you can go to the ball.
The trick is to have an LBD as your base and use accessories to inject some festive cheer. Chances are, you’ve probably got plenty of little black dresses to choose from already, but if not and you’re looking for an update, call off the hunt for your Christmas cracker of a dress, as we’ve found it. This velvet skater dress can be worn day or night- bundled under a chunky knit, teamed with tights and a denim jacket, or glammed up with sex appeal for an evening dazzler. The plush velveteen fabric, a key trend for A/W, has vintage appeal yet gives an outfit extra luxe, which is perfect for the party season. If velvet isn’t your thing, you can still shine in black. Opt for a sophisticated cut, a swathe of lace, or a girly peplum for added festive flirt.
It’s impossible to shop the high street at this time of year without being dazzled by the array of bejewelled numbers on offer. It might be the season to be jolly, but statement doesn’t have to be synonymous with sequins. Glitzy accessories offer a way of adding some sparkle to proceedings without having to go all the way. If you’re looking for something new, go for a chunky bangle, a jewelled cocktail ring, or stay on trend for the season with show-stopping statement earrings. If you’re sticking to a budget, don’t worry. Delve in to your jewellery box and pile ‘em up high: arm candy, neck candy, 10 digits full – ‘tis the season after all.
The finishing touch, a party clutch. There’s plenty on the high street that won’t blow your budget yet gleam with Yuletide joy (even Primark have got some good ones, but we didn’t say that). This glittery envelope style from New Look adds pizzazz without breaking the bank, so that you’ll have a few gold coins (and not the chocolate kind) left over for a merry cocktail.