Platinum's resident fashion expert brings you the looks to shimmer and sparkle over the party season.
WORDS: GAIL ROLFE. IMAGES: VARIOUS BRANDS.
Dressing for any kind of special occasion over the festive season should be as stress free as possible. Comfortable chic is eternal. The timeless combination of tailored trousers teamed with a silk blouse has always been my go-to outfit, but more recently I have invested in what I term a “grown-up” midi dress that is effortless and requires little styling. It’s more Grace Kelly in High Society than Little House on the Prairie.
In this column, I have created three outfits, each with a very different vibe. One is pure boho with a feminine chiffon maxi skirt as the hero item, paired with a sequin vest and classic camel cardigan. You can team this with either suede boots or the whimsical faux pearl slingbacks. Another revolves around a sleek, elegant burgundy jumpsuit, where the velvet shoes (aptly named Strictly) provide the charisma. These may be expensive, but they will never date. And the third marries a glamorous forest-green satin blouse with ivory tailored cargo pants.
For me this time of year is less about frantically investing in something new (and not denting the bank balance even further) and more about judiciously reassessing what I already possess. Likewise, a swift look in your wardrobe may unearth a gem that requires nothing more than a sprinkle of sartorial magic to upgrade it for Christmas festivities. Maybe all you need is one small purchase that can have a transformative effect on your much-loved wardrobe staples. It could be a bold gold chain necklace or oversized drop earrings, a wickedly life-enhancing pair of shoes or an exquisitely embroidered blouse that makes your heart sing with joy.
What you are looking for is frivolous, sparkly, shiny, glamorous and fun. However, if your wardrobe is lacking anything that answers to this description and needs inspiration, I hope I have helped.
