It’s Christmas-party season, so pull out all the stops and explore Bond Street for bang-on-trend accessories and outfits that are sure to turn heads
Suited and booted
British Vogue has hailed the return of “classic tailored fits” this winter. Bond Street is positively teaming with beautifully made suits from the likes of Givenchy (bold and architectural), Max Mara (classic and comfy) and Victoria Beckham (flowing and feminine). For a half-way compromise, invest in a statement shirt. Burberry has oodles to choose from, including boxy fits in signature check, and floaty numbers like the Sunflower silk pyjama shirt, £1,250, which you can absolutely pull off this time of year. Ferragamo’s gorgeous structured leather Nappa shirt, £3,295, meanwhile, is a true investment piece that’s definitely not just for Christmas.
Out-there accessories
Coco Chanel once said: ‘Before you leave the house, look in the mirror and take one thing off.’ But at Christmastime, understatedness goes out of the window. Accessories can add drama to any outfit, and range from something subtle like Dior’s adorable black velvet scrunchie, £310, to eye-catching cascading diamond drop earrings from De Beers, Boodles and Harry Winston. But feel free to experiment with silk scarves, bling brooches, sequin purses and even opera gloves. As the late, great Iris Apfel famously said, ‘More is more and less is a bore’.
Super furry animal
Aside from sky-high heels and her name-plate necklace, Carrie Bradshaw’s other fashion staple was an oversized faux fur coat, usually worn over a tiny slip dress while hailing a cab. Faux fur always makes an appearance this time of year, and a colourful coat of Muppet proportions is surprisingly chic. Try Paul Smith’s oversized faux fur coat in rust-orange, £450, or, if you want something more subtle, Gucci’s gorgeous extra fine mohair top, £1,150, will keep you cosy and stylish. Pair with a sequin skirt to nail the high-low look.
Gothic… but make it chic
Currently swooning over the costumes in House of Guinness? Christmas is a time when a touch of period drama is actively encouraged. Think gothic black and crushed velvets and Victorian-style ruffles and dramatic silhouettes. Chloé currently reigns supreme when it comes to whimsical, bohemian staples like this oversized ruffle top in crêpe de chine, £2,185. But nobody does designer goth-girl like Alexander McQueen. Invest in one of the brand’s Knuckle clutches £4,250, for a knockout accessory.
Gold standard
Chunky gold jewellery is having a moment. Think Tiffany & Co’s iconic Elsa Peretti Bone cuff, £23,300, or Bulgari’s Colosseum-inspired B.zero 1 ring, £2,980. Adding a statement piece of jewellery and playing with different metals and proportions is a surefire way to jazz up a sedate outfit, but a Christmas party is also the perfect excuse to add gold to your wardrobe. Louis Vuitton’s Mahina button-front dress, £2,370, is fun and flirty, and Givenchy’s mirror-effect gold ballerina pumps, £720, (also available in silver) are, quite frankly, a work of art.