WORDS BY SUZIE BAKOS
Last year, we missed the glitz, glamour and excitement of the festive period, but now they’re back. Whatever the occasion this holiday season, be it an intimate dinner, decadent gathering or long-awaited reunion, our new partywear edit is perfect for revitalizing your wardrobe — think standout dresses, dance-floor-ready heels and out-out bags that make the perfect plus ones.
The new little black dress
Speaking to the new mood for valuing self-expression over seasonal trends, modern revisions of the classic LBD reveal party options for every taste. From expressional styles that guarantee a dramatic New Year’s Eve outfit — such as Comme des Garçons’ Noir Kei Ninomiya tiered ruffle-embellished dress — to more classic pieces including the Loulou fitted mini dress with luxurious ostrich feather trims, there’s nothing like the perfect LBD to complete your partywear wardrobe this season.
For all-out glamour, Area never disappoints. Case in point: the corset-inspired mini dress with the brand’s signature crystal embellishment. When less is more, the same alluring effect is achieved via the all-over ruching of Rotate’s little black Aria number. To finish? Statement jewelry, a classic clutch and strappy heels.
High-impact separates
Opting for separates over a dress doesn’t have to mean dressing down — particularly when sequins, metallics, feathers, crops and cut-outs are on offer. Look to Jacquemus and 16Arlington for a new take on the trusted going-out top, where skin-revealing cuts and feather detailing shape fun, focal-point pieces. Meanwhile, Maje’s sequin trousers are a playful alternative to jeans, and Area brings both drama and femininity to this skirt with its bow detail and embellishment.
Elegant tailoring
Grown-up tailoring is having a moment and for the party scene, this means smart-meets-feminine creations. Powerful blazers take centre stage and Dolce & Gabbana’s silk offering is designed to turn heads. From the sharp peak lapels to the off-centre button fastening, this 60s-inspired style comes in a vivid teal hue that will pop against a pastel shirt and skirt combination.
If timeless black is more your thing, Versace could be the answer to your tailoring needs. The Italian fashion house revisits its iconic safety-pin motif with a modest and minimalist approach, making this blazer easy to style with trousers, skirts or LBDs.
Midi skirts make a fierce return and Prada provides a preppy, dressed-up aesthetic, while Yuhan Wang opts for romanticism via floral patterns and structured pleating.
Fantasy footwear
Second-skin boots reign supreme this party season, as the arrival of a new take on bodycon translates into impactful footwear. Khaite’s thigh-high pair are a key callout for the season, finished in a high-energy red hue — a joy-inducing color that ran throughout the collection. Consider them your all-weather alternative to barely there heels.
When it comes to party shoes and the most comfortable designer shoes, both Amina Muaddi and Mach & Mach are a favorite for those who want to do dressed up in an ultra-feminine way. Pointed toes, crystal embellishment and bow motifs are this season’s essential details.
Outfit-defining bags
No look is complete without the right party bag, lending the defining finish via delicate embellishment, embroidery, pleating and pearl accents.
For a pop of color, look to Jimmy Choo’s satin style with a chain-link shoulder strap, while big statements come in the form of Alexander McQueen's Skull Four-Ring clutches. Leaders in cool-girl glamour, Rosantica and Simone Rocha’s mini bags lend relaxed party outfits a modern endnote. Try these tiny styles alongside your favorite puffy dresses or tailored suits.