Now, let's talk about what to wear to all those festive celebrations. You say party, you say sequins – and yes, they're absolutely everywhere this season, from the high street to high-end boutiques. Sequins are having their moment (again!), and if you love a bit of sparkle, you're spoilt for choice.

But what if you're looking for something different? What if you want to stand out, try something more adventurous, or simply aren't a fan of all that glitter? I've got you covered with the season's most exciting alternative trends – each one offering bags of personality and style.

1. Velvet – The Luxe Essential

Velvet is everywhere this season, and I'm here for it. Think sumptuous velvet suits in rich jewel tones – from sophisticated black and emerald green to gorgeous burgundy. Velvet blazers, trousers, and dresses bring instant elegance and texture to any look.

How to style it: Pair a velvet blazer with tailored trousers and a silk camisole for after-work drinks. Or go full velvet suit with a simple white shirt underneath for a striking, modern look. A velvet devore dress (as below) with metallic accessories works beautifully for New Year's Eve.

Year-round styling: Don't save velvet just for December! Lighter-weight velvet pieces transition beautifully into spring evenings, especially in softer colours like blush or navy.

2. Lace – Timeless Romance

Lace adds a touch of feminine elegance that feels both classic and contemporary this season. We're seeing everything from delicate lace overlays to bolder, modern lace designs.

How to style it: A black lace midi dress is your party season workhorse – dress it up with heels and statement earrings, or keep it understated with ankle boots. Layer lace tops under blazers for a softer take on workwear that transitions seamlessly to evening, or add a touch of the trend with a lace-trimmed midi skirt.

Year-round styling: Lace works year-round when styled thoughtfully. In spring and summer, try lighter lace pieces in cream or pastels. In autumn, darker lace with knitwear creates beautiful contrast.

Discover the colours & styles that work for you with our Colour & Style Clinics

3. Faux Fur– Playful Glamour

Faux fur jackets are making a bold statement this season, and they're surprisingly wearable! This trend brings texture, movement, and a touch of old Hollywood glamour.

How to style it: A faux fur jacket over a simple slip dress or jeans and a silk top creates instant impact, or go all out for the party season and wear a sequinned dress, high heels and your favourite bag to go out on the town. Add warmth and elegance with a full length faux fur coat to really feel demure for an evening event, or try an animal print if you want that edge!

Year-round styling: Feathered pieces are naturally festive, but a lighter feathered jacket in a neutral tone can work for summer weddings or garden parties too.

4. Structured Satin, Tulle & Taffeta – Modern Sophistication

Glossy, structured fabrics like satin, tulle and taffeta are having a major moment, bringing architectural shapes and a fresh, city-chic aesthetic to party dressing.

How to style it: Look for structured dresses with interesting silhouettes – think sculptural necklines or statement sleeves. Pair with sleek accessories and polished hair for maximum impact. Or why not try a more relaxed option as below with a tulle skirt, denim shirt (with sequins of course!) and varnished boots for a city chic style. These pieces are perfect for modern celebrations where you want to look striking but not overly embellished.

Year-round styling: Structured satin pieces work brilliantly for spring and summer events – just switch to brighter colours or prints.

5. Big Bows – Statement Drama

This one's not for everyone, but if you love a fashion moment, oversized bows are making waves this season. From bodycon dresses with dramatic bow details to blouses with statement necklines, bows bring playful elegance.

How to style it: Let the bow be your statement – keep everything else simple and sleek. A bold bow dress with minimal jewellery and classic heels creates a look that's confident and memorable. For even more drama, try this lilac dress with a bow at the neckline & puffed sleeves or this burgundy strapless dress with a dramatic big pink bow around the waist (both from Harvey Nichols).

Year-round styling: Bow details aren't just for parties! Look for more subtle bow accents on everyday pieces throughout the year.

The Perfect Gift for Someone Special

Christmas is just around the corner, and if you're searching for a truly meaningful gift – one that goes beyond material things or another bottle of wine – let me introduce you to the gift of confidence.

Our styling gift vouchers offer an experience that keeps giving long after the festive season ends. Whether it's for your partner, sister, mother, best friend, or colleague, a styling session is an investment in how someone feels about themselves every single day in 2025.

Gift Voucher Options:

Individual services: starting at £99 (for the power hour with Nathalie, going up to £795 for a personal shopping session with me.
Packages: that can be tailored to your needs, otherwise you can pick one of our signature packages - check them at https://www.oneofastyle.com/personal-styling-packages
Corporate Packages: we offer special discounts on gift voucher packages (starting at 10% off when purchasing 10 or more) – a truly thoughtful way to show your employees they're value.

A styling experience is so much more than a gift. It's about helping someone rediscover themselves, feel seen, and walk into the new year with genuine confidence.

Ready to give the gift of confidence? Click here to find all of our vouchers, ready for Christmas!