The season of celebrations is upon us, and whilst I have my winter basics down to a T, I've realised that my party-ready outfits are lacking. My everyday uniform is relatively minimal and leans heavily on a neutral palette, but I'm most certainly not immune to the excitement for sparkles, sequins, and metallic leather that really only appears at this time of year.
Zarah wears a sleek velvet jumpsuit from M&S.
My social feeds are full of glittering looks, but to keep myself focused without getting too distracted by option overwhelm, I've looked to a concrete source of inspiration: this year's Marks & Spencer party trends. From it, I've gleaned plenty of ideas for putting together ensembles that are dazzling enough to compete with the decorations.
I wasn't sure if it was possible, but this year is even more glittery and gorgeous than party seasons prior. Whilst I've been known to settle for an all-black on ensemble without a single sparkly speck, I've officially been swayed. M&S has some of the most glamorous party dresses, shiniest skirts, trendiest trousers and fluffiest outerwear that feels ultra luxe.
It helps, too, that many of these styles can be worked long after party season has settled down. Whilst you may rely on a silver skirt or leopard print jacket to spice up your New Year's Eve outfit, these pieces are perfectly suitable for the rest of winter. So, if your party garb needs an upgrade, take a look at the seven party trends I've spotted amongst the M&S's seasonal lines.
Marks & Spencer Party Trends 2024:
1. Shimmering Dresses
Style Notes: Marks & Spencer pulled out all the stops this season when it comes to glittering dresses. There's no better time of year to slip on something that's shinier and bolder than your usual day-to-day attire. You can choose from flapper-style shifts with silvery rectangles and bright, apple-red minis. If you're in the camp of "one can never have too many sequins," meet your fashion match.
Tinsel and baubles will have nothing on you in this dress. You'll be the glitz and glam of any party.
A true showstopper.
We're also seeing a lot of bows crop up, and this dress is the perfect combination of both party trends.
2. Faux Fur Jackets
Style Notes: Covering up your most glamorous outfits with a plain puffer coat often feels like a crime, but no one wants to shiver their way to the party either. Instead, I raise you this alternative: the faux fur jacket. Its soft and cosy texture is perfect for winter but it's an elevated step up from your usual functional outerwear. And lucky for us, M&S has plenty to choose from.
All you need to stay warm without losing out on style.
I will never say no to a longline coat—especially one this luxe.
Picture this with a monochromatic outfit and you'll see the definition of sleek.
3. Statement Trousers
Style Notes: Whether you have your eye on a faux leather pair or want pop of bright red in your wardrobe, M&S has an impressive range of statement trousers to try this party season that are too good to pass up. From silky wide-leg cuts to slinky silver trousers, you'll find a pair for every party, dinner and social.
Holly berry red but make it modern.
These will work for the office Christmas party and for New Year's Eve.
I love that these feel festive, but can just as easily be styled in many other ways year-round.
4. Festive Mini Skirts
Style Notes: Winter was made for wearing black (or sparkly) tights with mini skirts, and M&S has released a curated selection of options that are made to stand out. From styles covered in jazzy red sequins to skirts that feel like they've been wrapped in gold foil, the hardest part is choosing just one. Paired with flats, boots or strappy heels, you'll have a fun and festive outfit on standby.
A great pop of texture for an all-red outfit.
Anything metallic is automatically a yes for a party-ready wardrobe.
I'm screenshotting this full outfit.
5. Elevated Animal Print
Style Notes: I'm normally one to opt for minimal silhouettes and clothes void of any patterns, but I've been converted to animal print this year. The way it has been reimagined—especially through Sienna Miller's M&S line—feels fresh, modern and far from kitschy. These subtler colours also mean they're easy to work into party outfits and winter ensembles beyond the new year.
The tie sleeves give this edgier pattern a romantic touch.
As noted by our editors, this is one expensive-looking high street piece you'll reach for year after year.
Don't forget about your shoes. These are a fun way to spice up a party outfit or your usual winter ensemble.
6. Sleek Black Dresses
Style Notes: The LBD will forever remain a party trend and M&S has made that evidently clear with this year's partywear. There are numerous gowns to pick from, whether you gravitate toward more minimalist styles with impeccably draped fabric or a dress with plenty of sparkle.
Seeing this dress has made me wonder why I haven't considered a faux leather number before.
A one-shoulder cut instantly upgrades a black dress silhouette.
Nothing beats the elegance of an off-the-shoulder dress.
7. Velvet Tailoring
Style Notes: In the '90s and '00s, I remember my mom styling my sister and I in poofy velvet dresses as children. They were complete with bows, lace and shiny Christmas shoes—and I can't say I loved it. I've since left velvet alone, but M&S has convinced me to revive this material in my closet. These sleek trousers, blazers and skirts are sharply tailored for a clean-cut look, but the velvet material gives them a festive spin that I can totally get on board with.
Pairing this blazer with faux leather trousers is such a good winter combination.
The flow and sheen of these trousers are perfect for a party, but the elasticated waist ensures they're comfy all night long.
Hold the slip skirt — this was made to be a winter staple.
