Sew sophisticated

Life and soul of the dance floor or already planning your French exit? Find the perfect outfit to match your party personality this season, whether that means playing it safe or going where the mood takes you…

With a square toe and dusky pink satin, a classic ballet slipper adds a feminine touch to your party style. First position, please. Skirt, £59, River Island (riverisland.com); shoes, £40, M&S (marksan

Hannah Betts says a glammed-up version of yourself is best for Yule

■ Pattern sheets x2 (Tracing required) ■ Instruction sheet Lining fabric (all sizes): ■ Long length: 3.5mx115cm 2.5mx140cm ■ Short length: 3mx112cm 2.3mx140cm Net overlay fabric (all sizes, 140cm only

■ 1-2m of 140cm wide needlecord, corduroy, velvet or denim ■ 1 x 40cm invisible zipper ■ 2m bias binding ■ Tape measure, straight ruler and curved ruler ■ Fabric marking tools ■ Matching thread ■ Basi

I loved my gown, just not the body in it. But I had a plan to change that...