Go all out
If Mariah Carey can do it, so can you. A full sparkly look screams Christmas and can be uber glamorous. Whether you plump for a sequin dress, or a glittery two-piece, the secret is to pull the rest of your outfit back, to avoid looking overdone.
Go for a simple but elegant evening shoe (I love strappy sandals even in midwinter) a smooth leather or satin clutch and understated jewellery to avoid competing with the Christmas Tree.
A sequin trouser or skirt
This is my favourite way to wear the humble sequin, as a shimmering skirt or pair of trousers instantly puts you in the party mood and offers more flexibility than the whole ‘rolled in glitter’ aesthetic.
For a contemporary look, team your party piece with a more casual garment, (think disco on the bottom, dinner on the top) a soft slouchy knit, oversized tuxedo shirt (always half tucked for the most flattering effect) or even a well cut Tee spruced up with a statement necklace can be effective.
Adding a small shoulder pad can provide (something we tend to need more of in mid-life) and balance out larger busts, hips and tums.
A Statement Top
Whether it’s a Tee, Tunic or blouse, a sequin top can look fabulous and has the added advantage of lifting your tired complexion thanks to that light-reflecting sparkle.
The options for pairings are endless, you could add some evening-y, bum-lifting (it’s-all-in-the-pocket-placement) pair of dark indigo jeans with a pointed kitten heel but my preference would be a pair of high-waisted black or navy tailored trousers complete with satin side stripe for an extra leg-lengthening effect.
Sparkly tops demand subtle jewellery, even in December but a sparkly shoe would balance the look and add some extra cheer.
Just A Touch
Still unsure? Then why not literally ‘dip your toe in’ and lift a trusty old favourite with a sparkly accessory or two?!
Whether it’s an embellished party flat, a glittering clutch, a sequin skinny scarf, or even a glimpse of a sequin camisole under a velvet blazer, a little extra sparkle might just give you that little extra va va voom you’ve been looking for.
Miranda Holder is a fashion and royal expert. You can follow her TikTok channel for the best style hacks