I'm feeling festive. We've just had our office party, my advent calendar only has only got ten more doors left to open (in truth it maybe a few less than that due to a chocolate-frenzy on Friday) and i've started wrapping my Christmas presents. So what better time to have a little look at the festive fashion in all the stores at the moment.
What's on my Xmas wish-list...
I have to say I am very happy about the return of the 1980's Phillip Schofield-esq Christmas jumper (maybe it's just me ;) these are great for getting cosy in a local pub or by the fire with a loved one and a glass of Baileys. To Be Worn Again on Providence Place have a stock-pile to have you looking like you've stepped out of Wham's 'Last Christmas' video in a jiffy. Hurry though as these are proving to be very popular!
My Christmas party must-haves
Lunch with the family: A satin pussy bow blouse worn with slouchy trousers or cutesy dress thrown over leggings and flat yet glamorous shoes will do the job nicely, keeping you both comfy and stylish. Ju Ju on Gloucester Road is full of lovely little dresses and blouses which are perfect for such an occasion.
Afternoon Christmas drinks with friends: A sequin bolero (I like the one in the window of Churchill Square's H&M at the moment) worn over a black vest top and teamed with skinny jeans will leave you feeling comfortable and covered but you'll still have the Christmassy sparkle required. Try a patent leather clutch to give this outfit a contemporary edge.
Twinkly nights on the town: A too-strict, structured Victoria Beckham look with uber-high heels is always too much effort to carry off if you want to let your hair down and relax, so I'd go for a statement dress that is loosely fitted and allows for lots of movement.
Favourite shops
For the best party wear on the high street at the moment, try River Island and H&M. They are both stacked with wearable, affordable and very sparkly pieces that can easily be dressed up with a fab vintage clutch or statement heels. If you're looking for something really special this season, go for a slinky dress from a boutique in the North Laines such as Tribeca or Jello and finish off the look with sexy heels.
How to look festive fabulous
To keep out the cold, go for a piece of cosy knitwear like a chunky cardigan with a metallic thread running through it and wear over good, unrestrictive jeans -- after all you will be eating, drinking and socialising from morning till night. If you're anything like me, you will have eaten all the chocolates from the tree/box/tin (insert any other here) very early on in the day, so an easy-to-wear tunic dress is a good option that will easily camouflage any unwanted bumps you may feel self conscious about. Wear with opaque black tights and patent Mary-Jane heels.
Choose jewel colours for the evening. Rich claret, deep purple and emerald greens are easily found in most good shops at the moment and make a festive statement.
What to avoid...
I'm a firm believer that leather--look leggings should nearly always be avoided...
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