‘Tis the season to be jolly, and of course, dress up for said jolliness. The one time of year when we can channel our inner Anna Dello Russo (editor of Vogue Japan, queen of crazy dressing and owner of a second apartment just to house nothing but clothes) and wear the most outlandish pieces that you wouldn’t dream of giving a run out in Coppers on any ordinary week night. Not forgetting the obligatory fresh Christmas pyjamas…
Velvet is always a winner, harking back to those jewel encrusted velvet numbers from Dunnes Stores that were a festive guarantee between the ages of four and eight – it’s amazing how things come back around. American Apparel has a whole rainbow of the tightest of tight velvet bodycons to choose from while Topshop is more forgiving with plenty of options in the skater dress style. Peter pan collars are going nowhere fast but a welcome addition to Christmas party style this year is the tight midi. Also available in velvet (what isn’t this year?), be a bit bolder and branch out with patterns and animal prints a la River Island.
Appropriate cover ups are essential. When it comes to cosy coats, go vintage. This particular red cutie is from 9 Crow Street but hit the charity shop, take your pick, and grab a H+M faux fur stole to pop over the collar. Separates must include sequins, much easier to handle than full on bling. This Topshop sequin skirt is all that glitters and more. Pair with slouchy jumpers or slick studded shirts.
Now for the actual day itself. Let’s think. You’ll be getting up early to unwrap those presents. You’ll need room for the mammoth calorific binge fest. You might do a Christmas day swim and feel as if you have no feet for at least a week. Gravy is messy. I can’t think of anything better than a festive onesie. Comfort AND style. Okay maybe not a whole lot of style, but I for one, spend a lot of time in my onesie and we are very happy together. Everyone should have one, and not just for Christmas. Stag print option via Topshop but Penneys’ lovely fleece varieties are just as good.
Icy glamour is hard to pull off when it comes to footwear, sturdy boots with a chunky heel are the answer. That walk up the hill to mass is no joke. River Island’s zip side ankle boots will stand you in good stead, literally. Go forth and sparkle. Or slob.
Claire Healy
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