Styling party wear

The most important accessory for a party dress is a pair of shoes that feel a little bit sexy but, importantly ones you can dance in. We’ve all been there before, the promise of a fun evening ruined by agonising pinching or growing blisters so your footwear really does need to be considered.

Metallics is always an easy staple as they literally go with every print and colour and I can attest that the Camilla Elphick Jasmine gold wedge sandal are supremely comfortable. Black is easy and will look modern with everything. I love the Loeffler Randall classics, just add a great pair of patterned sheer tights, they instantly update any party look this season. These spotty ones by Heist are great quality and should last you well. If you’re after something a little fancier, Sezane has a great selection. A pop of colour for a shoe also works well, my oldest pair of red satin heels looked fantastic with most of the Pop Up dresses. I haven’t found a similar pair in red but the SJP by Sarah Jessica Parker has some beautiful brights worth looking at. For those of us who are averse to high heels, a chic flat velvet pump is a great option. I love these Mary Janes by Penelope Chilvers and back to metallics, these gold flats by Boden will finish off any festive outfit.

To wear over your party dresses I always rely on my trusty navy Cefinn velvet blazer or a lovely very old tuxedo black blazer which I often layer over my shoulders. Jigsaw have a lovely velvet plum version and I am loving all the golden rust velvets available from Mango to Me + Em. Sarah Corbett Winder’s newly launched suiting brand, Kipper has a gorgeous chocolate velvet blazer, all made in the UK which we obviously love! If all that is just too much colour then try this uber chic tuxedo, again from Mango whose tailoring is great this season or this more fitted style from & Other Stories.

I love an evening bag I can dangle on my wrist leaving maximum handspace for drinks and canapés. Velvet is always a winner and I have my eye on one of these made to order beauties by Maison M. I am also a huge fan of Isla de Gar with each bag handmade in London, there is literally one in every colour!

For jewellery, I am a gold hoop girl and always think they give all my dresses a modern edge. The larger the better for the evening and I’ll often layer them with a second pair. My heart belongs to Missoma, set up by one of my best friends years ago. There is such a fantastic range, something for everyone and the best quality affordable jewellery out there. I am currently loving these which I wore during the shoot and have subsequently bought home!

All of these, and others are on the Update Your Dress section so you can head there to browse.

 

Head to Update Your Dress to shop the products

Here