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Spending serious cash on a party dress that will be worn only twice is not for everyone. Clever people invest in power separates: fail safe pieces that work together and with your existing wardrobe. There’s something infinitely more modern about stepping out in cool tailoring, wearing sequins with battered denim or rocking a white Tee with a metallic skirt. Party frocks? Dated.
1. Give velvet a chance: The much-maligned fabric has shaken off its dusty Miss Havisham connotations and gets a rock?n?roll makeover with sexy, sharp silhouettes. Velvet jacket, €171.55 and velvet trousers, €95 at topshop.com
2. Invest in a jumpsuit: The one-piece is back and there are three good reasons why it’s sticking around – it’s instantly glamorous, can be dressed up or down, plus it’s super-easy to wear. Just add heels and go… Backless jumpsuit, €59.95 at zara.com
3. Do matchy-matchy: Matching your top and trousers is the most fashion-forward look of the season. From pyjama tailoring to bomber jacket and trouser sets, it’s all about the new ?co-ords?. ASOS Black Holographic print bomber jacket, €135.72 and trousers, €107.15 at asos.com
4. Buy a killer sweatshirt: For a low key but entirely smokin? look, consider the statement sweatshirt. Wear with everything from leather shorts to waterfall hem skirts. Print sweatshirt, Etre Ce?cile, €150 at matchesfashion.com
5. Slip on a kimono: For some people festive dressing will always involve sequins. This kimono will deliver that party X factor without the goose bumps. Sequin kimono, €45 at warehouse.co.uk
6. Skirt around: Lady-length, high waisted evening skirts are this season’s chicest alternative. Wear them with a chunky crop knit and brogues by day then with a glam Tee and heels after dark.? Silver leather look pleated midi, €80 at riverisland.com
Suzie Coen @Suzie_Coen