It seems as if winter has just begun but the clothes shops are already heaving with their Christmas party offerings. Yes, the festive season is almost upon us ladies and that means just one thing - shopping time!
With the party season descending, almost earlier each year, and your diary no doubt bursting at the seams with parties, parties and more parties, there's only one thing for it; some seriously fuss-free shopping for those knock 'em dead outfits that are guaranteed to turn heads. Let this winter's most fabulous trends lead the way and allow your alter egos to come out to play with stunning party looks for this season of goodwill.
Shopping for dresses sounds like every girl's ideal pastime but the idea of hours searching a rainy high street, fighting through Christmas shoppers and enduring endless renditions of jingle bells will soon have you feeling like a right scrooge - so why not let us do the hardwork for you.
Christmas party dress codes have always been confusing. That line between business and pleasure, formal and informal, gets drowned in seasonal goodwill and festive cheer. And there's certainly no occasion where it's easier to make a style faux pas than the office Christmas party. Choose something too conservative and you will fade into the background; wear something too daring and you could be the one whispered about around the water cooler the next day.
Deciding what to wear to the Christmas party is enough to make any of us choke on our mince pies especially if we're on a budget.
But getting a party look needn't cost the earth...honestly. Supermarket ranges such as Florence & Fred at Tesco have gone sequintastic and are offering some great party wear. There's also, Pennys, Dunnes, Marks & Spencer or Sasha for those of us on a tight budget. They all have a wonderful selection of party wear, picking up on this season's fascination with glitter and glamour with lamé, brocade and sequined dresses.
If you are not quite sure where to start, a little black dress is a great starting point but the key is to make sure it suits your shape. It should hug you where you are the slimmest and skim over lumps and bumps. If black washes you out, try a frock in slate grey, plum or navy. Look for a dress with something extra -embellishment at the neck, or embroidery.
A simple way to take your little black dress to a new level is with some great accessories. A wide patent belt is bang on trend and will create that sought after hourglass figure. River Island have the most amazing selection of belts, starting at just 30 euro, so you can get a hot fashion look - without the wallet numbing price tag.
Or if you're a plus-size lady looking to cause a stir at this year's party, then check out Simply Be. ie. They have an amazing collection of plus-size partywear. And their Claudia Stevens range also starts at size 16, whether your work do is a dressy affair or just pints down the pub, the label has a chick look to suit all sizes.
But if you're a little stuck for inspiration - check out our list of the hottest party looks with a seclection to suit everyone - looks as if Santa's come early!
The Prom Dress
This look was popularised by Sarah Jessica Parker and it just refuses to go away - possibly because it's georgeous and suits so many body shapes. Hurrah! Often strapless and adorned with a gorgeous lace overlay, the prom dress is making a retro comeback celebrating the female form and giving women with curves the chance to feel super sexy. Wear with kitten heels a la Dita Von Teese and perfect your jitter jive before stepping onto the dance floor!
Pink party dress, €69 at Marks and Spencers.
The LGD (Little Gold Dress)
That's right, gold is the new black. A glamorous and bright alternative to our security LBD, the little gold dress will turn heads for all the right reasons - and best of all, those of us with great legs get to show them off without looking too tarty (unlike with a little black number). Be a true party goddess and wear with Grecian-inspired locks like Sienna Miller teaming the dress with metallic accessories (a shimmering gold clutch will add essential sparkle to your outfit).
Gold wrap dress, €140 from Wallis Limited Collection.
The Embellished Dress
For girls who love to make an entrance, the embellished party dress is for you. Choose a simple shape, preferably a short cut with some swing which will allow your sparkly friends to shimmer and glimmer beneath the disco ball. Look for interesting embellishments including semi-precious gems, beading, sequins, pearls, stones and floral detail.
Black dress with gold embellishment - the Jane dress - at Monsoon, €127.00
The One-Shoulder Dress
This ultra-glamorous frock has cleverly moved from spring to fall with ease due to its classic silhouette and completely flattering form. To make this exotic style a dress to remember look for shorter styles that rest on the knee for a less serious, cocktail feel. Available in a variety of shapes, choose one to suit your figure, opting for a flowing, maxi-style fit to flatter curves or a fitted, body-con shape if you're keen to show off an hourglass figure.
River Island one-shouldered dress.
The Slinky Dress
Perfect if you've got a body to die for, pour yourself into a tight, figure-skimming slinky frock if you dare and prepare to turn heads. As loved by the super-svelte Victoria Beckham and Renee Zelwegger, the slinky party dress looks fantastic in bright block colours. Choose a style with block shades choosing darker colours to slim and brighter colours to draw attention. Choose seamless underwear when wearing body-con dresses or better still, invest in a tummy-tuck body shaper.
Leather fitted strapless dress, €130 at River Island.
