5 rules for finding your party style – The Irish News

The holiday season is here, but if its hype fills you with more panic than excitement, you’re not alone.

If you don’t like sequins or bows, it can be difficult to know what to look for to feel festive. But whether it’s color, cut or texture, there’s a way to elevate your evening looks, no matter your personal style.

Celebrity stylists and fashion consultants share their rules for finding your party style without compromise your wardrobe favorites.

1. Take note of what’s in your closet

The trick to finding a particular style is to look at what you gravitate towards. Take a look in your wardrobe, if you see a lot of long sleeves or V-necks, then you should incorporate these shapes into your evening pieces.

When it comes to incorporating this season’s trends, the key is to vary the silhouettes to best suit your personal style.

“This holiday season, the key look is YSL’s ‘Le Smoking,'” says celebrity and brand stylist Clare Chambers. “The beauty of this tuxedo-inspired style is that there is an iteration that suits everyone.

“Whether you choose an oversized, longer tuxedo jacket or a shorter, more fitted jacket, you can pair it with pants, a satin skirt, over a dress or even jeans,” says Chambers.

Likewise for color, if you prefer neutral tones like taupe, cream and navy, opt for champagne glitter or bronze metallics. If you wear a lot of patterns, try black watch tartan or a Fair Isle knit.

River Island Beige Knit Sequin Midi Skirt, £35

Jaeger cotton-rich velvet tuxedo blazer, £150, M&S

2. Have a Christmas Toolbox

Once you know the styles, shapes and colors you’re interested in, having a few festive favorites in your arsenal can help you put together a great outfit at the last minute.

“A Christmas toolbox is a holiday essential and can easily transform a day into a drinking outfit,” says Susie Nelson, fashion expert and founder of Modes and More Vintage.

“For accessories, opt for big earrings or a sparkly belt, bag or shoes. Velvet bows and embellished headbands can also help,” says Nelson.

When it comes to clothing and patterns, Nelson suggests plaid or tartan for those who don’t go the sequin route.

House of Bruar Ladies Versatile Pleated Skirt – Red Stewart, £165

Revolution Haircare Velvet Bow Clip – Black, £6, Fantastic Look

3. Play with textures

Festive prints like sequins, checks or tartan are harder to have in your wardrobe all year round. So Nelson suggests experimenting more with texture to add a touch of festive glamour.

It’s a trick the Princess of Wales often demonstrates at the annual Christmas Day service at St Mary Magdalene Church, sporting Alice velvet bands and fur trims.

Incorporating velvet, suede, corduroy or faux fur into your look can transform an average winter outfit into a glamorous party outfit.

Next Burgundy Red Faux Fur Scarf, £34

Accessorize headband with pearls and gemstones, £14

4. Don’t compromise on comfort

When someone says “evening wear,” uncomfortable heels and irritating glitter might come to mind — but that’s not necessarily the case.

“Focus on the fabric and the cut,” says London-based fashion stylist Karine Laudort. “Look for stretchy materials like jersey or luxury knits for a chic yet comfortable feel.”

Laudort emphasizes the importance of silhouettes, making sure you opt for ones you feel comfortable (and confident) in. “For example, midi dresses with a little stretch or wide-leg pants with a fitted top are great options.”

When it comes to shoes, Chambers suggests opting for flats or block heels: “Typically, a pair of black suede mid-heel ankle boots is the most comfortable, as the fabric isn’t as restrictive than leather. and the block heel means weight is distributed more evenly. Plus, suede pairs perfectly with black tights and looks more flattering on bare legs.

Ro&Zo Sparkly Midaxi Bodycon Dress, £119, M&S

John Lewis Oaklee Stretch Suede Block Heel Ankle Boots – Black, £85

5. Never underestimate accessories

“Most people have more outfits in their wardrobe and closets than they realize,” says Nelson. “With a little thought and imagination, almost any outfit can be enhanced with the right accessories.”

It’s a universal truth that accessories are the quickest way to transform an outfit. “Think bold earrings, statement necklaces, or a sparkly clutch to add instant glamour,” says Laudort.

“The key accessory for the 2024 holiday season is the sculptural hoop,” says Chambers.

“Whether you choose gold or silver, this particular style of earrings means you strip away all other jewelry to let it become the statement detail of your outfit.”

Mango Volume Hoop Earrings, £15.99

New Look black mini bow sequin bag, £17.99 (was £23.99)