Tomorrow it’s the first day of December so I’m declaring party season officially open. I’m very traditional in the sense that I always see the beginning of December as the start of the festive period. Normally I don’t listen to Christmas songs or watch festive films until December, however, this year has been quite different. From singing along to Mariah Carey’s ‘All I Want For Christmas Is You’ in a bar in Sweden back in October (!!!) to having an early Christmas meal with my grandparents at the weekend (they’re off to Morocco for Christmas!), Christmas has been present a bit too early year. But that’s ok and now it certainly is ok to start talking about partywear.
Work Christmas parties, festivities with friends and the big day itself, tis the season to get dolled up. And as always the high street is completely awash with glitz and glamour. From dream & Other Stories velvet suits, going out dresses and a shimmery Ashish collab by Warehouse* to Mango’s textured separates and re-imagined LBDs at Arket, the choice is overwhelming and there really is something for everyone.
I absolutely loving getting all dressed up – sometimes it is lovely to treat yourself to something new for that special occasion. However, I would also always recommend first raiding your local vintage shop (because what can beat an 80s power sequin blouse?) or delving into your own wardrobe for your go-to party piece, which is what I did for this look.
I picked up this beautiful 70s silver lurex top in a flea market in Paris back in May for a mere 4€. With its crochet detailing down the sleeves and a sheer panel across the chest, it was quite literally a sparkly gem in a metaphorical haystack – a literal pile of clothes – and it’s one of my best vintage bargains. If you're thinking about picking up a new sparkly piece, I would recommend opting for a top as they're really versatile and are easy to rewear post-party season, dressed down with some jeans. Today, I paired it with my beloved 70s flares in the most festive red colour and finished the look with my By Far suede Becca boots.
I’d call this an everyday partywear look – something to ease us in to partywear dressing or a way to add a bit of sparkle to an everyday look. I would wear this to work and then out for drinks or to a festive dinner with friends – the loose yet flattering silhouette allows for mulled wine and food babies a plenty.
And finally, let’s talk about these photos…I think they are some of my favourite ever. They were shot at God’s Own Junkyard, which, if you didn’t know, is a shop/museum/café in North East London that is full of neon signs, quirky ornaments and a couple of giant mirror balls. It was the perfect setting to shoot this everyday partywear look. I just love how the neon light reflects on my face and illuminates the silver lurex of the top and the glowing red of the trousers.
I hope you’ve liked this post and it’s inspired you to style up some old sparkly bits in your wardrobe in a new way or invest in the perfect party piece for the festive season. But remember; sparkles aren’t just for Christmas. X
This was a collaborative post but all writing/opinions are my own
