It's official: party season is coming. And if your diary is quickly filling up with cocktail parties, festive drinks and New Year's Eve celebrations, there's probably one thing front of mind—what on earth am I going to wear? While there are always the reliable party go-tos that many of us have tucked in our wardrobes, there's something about the festive party season that feels a little extra special, and therefore deserving of a new outfit. So what better time to see what fashion insiders are planning on wearing to their parties over the coming weeks? After extensive scrolling on Instagram and endless conversations with my fellow fashion enthusiasts, I think I've figured out the trends you're likely to see.
Many of them won't come as a total surprise, in fact, they're actually incredibly timeless and even versatile. Silver and embellishment, for example, always pop up at parties, but especially during the festive period. Instagram's best-dressed are also picking up on the resurgence of interest in the Nineties, so expect to see plenty of mini skirts and sheer styles that feel fresh but also deserving of a place in your capsule wardrobe. And for the minimalists, there's the sleek option of a tailored look, which this season is nodding to the Eighties with power silhouettes complete with padded shoulders.
Whatever your party vibe, let this edit serve as inspiration to give your going-out wardrobe a well-deserved reset.
SEE THE BEST PARTY TRENDS FOR 2024 AND BEYOND:
1. Sheer
Style Notes: Let's start with something bold: sheer. The barely-there look may not be cold weather friendly, but it's sure to make a statement at your next gathering. Lean into the Nineties vibe that has inspired its resurgence by opting for lace styles like Emili's, or for sweeping slip dresses styled with strappy heels.
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Rhinestone mesh? Oh, yes.
If you want to nod to the sheer trend but keep it a tad more sophisticated, this semi-sheer dress is a great option.
This sweeping top is giving epic Seventies vibes. Pair yours with leather or sequinned trousers.
Go all out and pair the bodysuit with these matching trousers.
A minimalist's approach to sheer.
This lace bodysuit is a showstopper.
2. Elevated Sparkle
Style Notes: It wouldn't be party season without a little sparkle, and this season the offerings are seriously elevated. I'll be taking my styling cue from Liv's play with contrasts by pairing sparkling pieces with cosy knits. Seriously chic.
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A really gorgeous LBD.
So cute!
Wear with a big cosy jumper to achieve Liv's look.
Throw a leather jacket over the top for a rock 'n' roll look.
I'm obsessed with this Scandi take on embellishment.
Stunning.
3. Power Tailoring
Style Notes: Dresses not your thing? Go sleek and sophisticated with a tailored look. This season, it's all about the power silhouette—think padded shoulders, cinched waists and elevated details like satin trims.
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Yes, it's an investment, but this is a piece that'll truly stand the test of time.
Satin trousers are perfect for evening wear.
You can't go wrong with a tux.
Tap into one of this season's hottest colours with this merlot velvet blazer.
The perfect match for the Mango blazer.
I'm obsessed with this fresh take on the 50s silhouette.
4. Red Hot
Style Notes: It's the colour that everyone is embracing this season, and it happens to be particularly well suited to party looks, too. From black tie-worthy gowns to dancefloor-ready heels, there are plenty of ways to introduce red into your party wardrobe.
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This wet-look sequinned dress is simply stunning.
I love how this is styled with the matching cardigan.
Yes to this whole outfit.
Power tailoring and red, all in one.
So festive!
Wear day and night.
5. High Hemlines
Style Notes: This party season, the higher the hemline, the better. From mini skirts to mini dresses, 'tis the season to get your pins out (and you can always go for tights, like Camille, if the winter night is particularly brisk).
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Simple, yet so effective.
The exposed back makes this even better.
A feathered number that is more than party-ready.
Just wait until you see the back...
The peekaboo cut-outs at the waist is such a fun touch.
This exudes Scandi cool.
6. Silver
Style Notes: Red may be trending, but given that the festive season is approaching, it's no surprise that silver is, too. Make a statement in a floor-sweeping maxi, or use silver pieces to make your favourite black styles party-ready.
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Save for your next black tie affair.
So cool. Pair yours with knee-high boots and a black top.
No one would believe this is a high street piece.
Nod to the trend with these metallic Mary Janes.
Wear with black jeans and pointed toe heels.
I'd wear this entire look.
7. Party Boots
Style Notes: Forget the six inch stilettos. This season, fashion insiders are switching their heels for knee-high boots, which work particularly well with the trending mini skirts and dresses. If you want to dress down a sparkly skirt, opt for a flat riding boot. If you want to glam-up an ensemble, a heeled, pointed-toe style is the way to go.
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Glossy perfection.
You could wear these any time, day or night.
These boots are ideal for adding a touch of texture to your party outfit.
Disco boots!
Western boots are really trending at the moment.
Pair with a mini skirt for a dancefloor-ready outfit.
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