Go on, glisten

It’s pre-Christmas party dress drop time, which means that, between now and the first week of December, the year’s sassiest, shiniest offerings are launching into the High Street and online stores.

Make no mistake, some of these offerings sell out quickly, faster than ever now that eager, savvy, style-hungry shoppers are signing themselves up for email alerts and social media messaging services, to let them know the moment that their objects of desire have landed and are available to buy.

Couple this with the fact that some retailers are taking care not to over-stock, given the still unpredictable nature of the marketplace, and you’ll find that many statement, must-have party dresses and separates are selling out quickly, especially in the most popular sizes.

Separates, in fact, are an excellent way to combat this, as they don’t appear to be disappearing quite as rapidly as key statement dresses.

The sequin skirt is definitely one of this season’s most lust-worthy shining examples and, fortunately, it comes in a variety of shapes and lengths to suit all. If you haven’t already, try on a dress or skirt that features all-over plating, usually shiny discs or rectangles that shimmy as you move – surprisingly flattering and fabulously fun and party-like (although not quite so comfortable for a six-course, sit-down dinner).

If you want to keep the look luxurious and classy, team with a plain (perhaps black) cashmere or jersey top, maybe as a polo-neck, add a few blinging bangles or a suitable statement necklace, and either high heel sandals (steer clear of glitter platforms, though), or ankle boots, in black, or an intriguing ruby red or rich purple.

Black and gold is an effective combination that is bringing some absolutely beautiful and inspiring looks for this season. The golds tend not to be gaudy (and, actually, this applies throughout the gold spectrum of offerings for winter), but rather they are antiqued and bronzed looking, often in the form of applique and embellishments fashioned to remind of Baroque and classical architecture and metalwork.

Gold lace is another major trend, providing intricate metallic shine and detail with a wearable softness and fluidity.

It’s all about the texture, with brocades, jacquards and tapestry-style fabrics all providing interest and party luxe. Choose one stand-out pattern, for example, a black and red tapestry-effect sleeveless prom dress, and then keep the accessories neutral toned, but also packed full of texture – a nut-brown faux fur stole, a pair of black velvet suede boots, a black feather clutch bag.

This is shine without gaudiness, glow without glare, so steer clear of pieces that make you blink. Find one stand-out piece of shimmer, and build your look around it.

So go and glisten carefully.

Twitter: @yorkshirefashQ