Festive party time: fashion trends to know about

By Katie Wright

Christmas is just around the corner, but before we get to the big day, there’s the fun and frivolity of party season to enjoy – and outfits to plan.

Whether you have one big bash to shop for or a few seasonal shindigs, this year you’re spoilt for choice in the fashion department, with cute cocktail dresses, chic separates and fab accessories to suit everyone’s style.

These are the seven key trends everyone needs to know about this festive season…

Babydoll dresses

With puff sleeves and a short, voluminous skirt, babydoll dresses in pastel and candy colours are the prettiest way to do party dressing. Add 70s style platform heels and statement earrings and you’re ready for the dance floor.

Statement blouses

The ‘going out top’ is still going strong, with high-necked blouses in jewel tones the ideal match for jeans or wide-leg trousers.

Sequin trousers

Prefer tailoring to party frocks? Add some glitz with a pair of sequinned trousers teamed with a simple black top or coordinating tee.

Long-sleeved dresses

Go all-out with a sequin-covered long-sleeved dress in a brilliantly bright hue. A frock like this needs little by way of accessories, just strappy heels and a clutch.

Fluffy bags

A faux fur or feather-covered bag in a contrasting colour is the perfect way to add a little pizzazz to an all-black outfit.

Pearl earrings

Pearls have made a major comeback in recent years, but we’re not talking demure studs. This season’s statement pairs are bold and beautiful.

Carrie Bradshaw heels

Step out in style with a pair of diamante-encrusted shoes inspired by Carrie Bradshaw’s iconic heels in the Sex And The City movie. These classic courts were a major trend on the autumn/winter catwalks and now we’re seeing them on the high street in everything from royal blue to hot pink.