The winter period is well underway, and soon enough you'll be able to start your advent calendar countdown. The streets are lined with twinkling lights, and there's a buzz in the air that only comes around this time of year. If you're anything like me, you might be finding that your to-do list isn't shifting much. Once one thing gets ticked off (I can smugly confirm all my presents are sorted), something else pops up (now to wrap them). In the chaos that comes from organising Christmas dinners, putting up trees, digging out the box of decorations and then consulting Youtube on how to fix a broken bulb, there's more than enough to be getting on with. With all this and more to do, I'm happy to take something off your plate: party dressing ideas.
Whether you celebrate over December or not, there's still plenty of reason to get dressed up. Office parties, birthday celebrations and, of course, ringing in the New Year mean there are a lot of excuses to get dressed up this season, or perhaps you just like to snap up a special piece when you see it. In my research, I found so many great high-street options that I'm dedicating the whole edit to it. Your purse, and wardrobe, will thank me.
Valeria wears a party dress from Zara.
As much as I love the high street, I'll admit that sometimes the party-dressing sections can be a little hit-and-miss. With "Deck the Halls" ringing in their ears, brands often over-embellish or complicate partywear, making it feel less than timeless. Trust me, I'm in no way averse to a bit of shimmer, but it's useful to consider the longevity of your pieces to ensure you will wear them over and over again. After a few hours of searching, it became clear that there are five main categories of dress that have enough glitz to celebrate the occasion and still feel timeless enough to rewear every year.
To ensure that you make the most of your purchase, money and time, I've sifted through hundreds of high-street party dresses to find the five best styles to buy now and wear forever.
Shop the Best High-Street Party Dresses for Winter 2024:
A beautiful dress that will work hard in any capsule wardrobe.
I just love this pretty strapless style.
This is giving major Atonement vibes.
I love a sequin mini with sheer tights.
For those that don't love a red dress, why not try a pretty pink style?
I did a double take when I saw the price!
Chocolate brown velvet and with a bow? Yes please.
I tried this recently and loved the shape and puff sleeves.
This year, you're the present.
If you're not into sequins but still want an amazing party-season dress, may I please draw your attention to this very chic polka-dot number?
For this maximalists out there.
Perfect for after-work drinks.
This also comes in a fun neon green.
One of our favourite high-street dresses this year.
A classic.
If you're after a new LBD, this is it.
Mint Velvet is really killing it this season, case in point, this dress.
That neckline is stunning.
Wear with heeled mules and a long maxi coat.
I personally love chic whites in winter like this lovely silk midi.
This is a subtle take on the feather trim trend.
Yes, under £30.
You could also wear this to a winter wedding.
What's more festive that emerald green velvet?
I can't resist a bow.
Honestly, the chicest dress I've seen this year so far.
Classic, elegant and timeless. What more could you want?
This also comes in burgundy and blue.
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