Dress to kill

You know what’s really good about having Christmas and New Year parties in winter? You can wear so much more than you would in summer — your option with colours, accessories and style is literally doubled during the season.

After Hrs does a quick recce, on your behalf, to give you a head’s up on all the things you could make part of your party fashion statement this year...

Wardrobe function
Now you can buy your little black dress at really competitive prices so without much thought, get one of those because it will be your best friend forever. However, if you’re looking at something more dramatic, we’d recommend a long chiffon gown in a pastel shade that will add a soft glow to your whole self. For te daring souls, sequinned dresses are an all-time favourite. Try silver this year. Get your dress tailored half and half — where part of the dress uses cotton mixed with lycra or even raw silk and the other half has muted sequinned yarn.

As for the boys, if you are as hot as George Clooney, get a tuxedo. Or else a nice party shirt paired with a scarf or a cravat and well-fitted jeans with a hint of embellishment is fab thought. Jewel colours like ruby red, emerald green and sapphire blue are quite popular this year so go for it!

Cover up
Jackets are a must! Whether you wear it or not, you’ve got to have one. From a vintage style, which is back with a bang this year, to something more edgy, brands are all out there attracting your attention. We’d recommend the trenchcoat right away — it always looks sexy and does wonders for your body type. However, if you’re not tall enough, look at shrugs that contour your body aptly. For those with fuller bodies, fabrics that skim the body and not cling or wrap you up completely are recommended. And if you’re flaunting your attitude, how about a red bomber jacket this year?

Tip toe
If you’re fashionable enough, you probably had your party shoes first and then got a dress to go with it. As for the rest, we’d recommend you to come out of your closet and wear something absolutely wild. Heels studded with crystals, bright colours like pink and silver and even the gladiator stilettos win top points from us. The boots are back in business too — so grab one that goes all the way to your knees and pair it with a short sexy number. If heels are something you want to steer clear of, we reckon you’ll be dancing the night away, flat boots or wedges that support your entire feet properly are a good idea.

Can you ear me?
Once you’ve got the shoes and clothes ready, it’s time to turn your attention towards the jewellery. For the last couple of years, large chandelier earrings, with nothing around the neck, have been quite the rage. And while it continues to be popular, make sure you pick something that looks classy — a lot of women end up looking rather tacky in bright jewels and formal western wear. If you want to go simple, a chain with a pendant, tiny ear drops and a bracelet can go with your LBD, evening gown, formal pants or a skirt.