What to wear this Christmas party season, as experts warn sparkles and sequins are officially out

With sequins, sparkles, and ruby red simply not cutting the mustard this year, fashion experts are championing a fresh approach to party wear – think textured knits and rich burgundy and plum shades.

Designer Amanda Wakeley OBE and stylist Elsa Boutaric have identified seven standout trends that promise to elevate festive looks beyond the predictable. From dramatic opera gloves to layered jewellery, these styles offer a more refined take on celebration dressing.

Silks and silver

The most striking change for the 2025 party season comes in the form of shimmer over bold sparkle.

"This season feels wonderfully grown-up; it's about subtle confidence rather than overt glamour," said Mrs Wakeley.

She added that fluid tailoring and luxurious fabrics like velvet, silk, and liquid satin are "having a real moment" right now.

• Get the look: Phase Eight Jayla Metallic Knit Dress, £96.75 (was £129)

Opera gloves

Opera gloves have emerged as an unexpected hero piece, partly thanks to Claudia Winkleman's striking looks in The Traitors.

But there's an art to wearing them well. "Just opt for one statement piece, and one statement accessory, then mix it with a classic basic," advised Ms Boutaric.

A single satin glove paired with a simple black dress creates immediate impact without overdoing it.

• Get the look: Mango Mesh Long Spotted Gloves, £15.99

Stacked jewellery

The jewellery approach has shifted too, with delicate layering replacing chunky statement pieces.

"Think about layering your jewellery," suggested Wakeley. "Different lengths of chains from choker to waist length will refresh any look."

Mixed metals and sculptural shapes create an accumulated effect that looks curated rather than bought in one go.

• Get the look: Jigsaw Mixed Metal Wrap Bangle, £45 (was £65)
• Get the look: Orelia Multi Row Coin Necklace, £35

Statement knitwear

Statement knitwear represents perhaps the biggest departure from traditional party wear, with the iconic Traitors presenter inspiring another seasonal trend.

"Claudia Winkleman's looks are certainly inspiring," noted Wakeley, pointing to combinations of pleated skirts with knits and velvet trouser suits paired with silk shirts.

Ms Boutaric emphasised texture as key, with cable knit, rib knit, and bouclé leading the charge.

• Get the look: M&S Embellished Scoop Neck Knitted Top, £26

Flared trousers

Paired with heels for leg-lengthening effect or flats for relaxed elegance, they offer ultimate versatility.

• Get the look: Mango Velvet Suit Trousers, £49.99

Sheer mesh

Sheer fabrics have evolved from their bodycon past into sophisticated minimalism. "If you're wearing a statement sleeve or a sheer fabric, let that be the focus and keep everything else pared-back," Mrs Wakeley advised. "I always say: don't let your clothes wear you."

• Get the look: Next Black Sheer Puff Sleeve Bow Blouse, £34

Bows and puffed sleeves

Finally, bows and puffed sleeves have matured from last year's ultra-feminine, dainty aesthetic.

"Dramatic looks, puffy sleeves, and large bows are very in right now," said Ms Boutaric, best paired with tailored trousers for balance.

• Get the look: Zara Striped Blouse with Bow, £27.99

Now you've got your outfit sorted, only one question remains: What are you going to do with your hair?

According to a celebrity hairstylist, four looks will guarantee you "bombshell" status at this year's Christmas parties.

Our Standards: The GB News Editorial Charter