And here we are again….it’s the festive season! I don’t know about you, but it feels like Christmas has come around particularly quickly this year? I do have a propensity to start moaning at this point in the calendar as I realise how much needs to be done before the big day….blah blah blah….but I then have to stop myself and remember that I do actually like this time of year!

So, in celebration of the festive period, I bring you…..party clothes! Something sparkly and fun but not slinky and uncomfortable is our M.O. Partywear is not mine or mum’s comfort zone. It’s funny really as I spent so many years dressing celebrities for the red carpet and Saturday night television so I know what makes a good statement look but when it comes to myself, I just want to be comfortable and trust me, no celebrity is ever comfortable in their red carpet looks - they’re running to their dressing rooms to take those outfits off as quickly as their stilettoed feet will take them! So finding clothes with pizzazz and comfort is key. That is why I love this sparkly top and British made silk skirt by Elwin so much.

The top is fully covered so you can wear whatever underwear you want underneath (including a thermal vest should you be so inclined)! The sleeves are long and the tiny little shoulder pads provide structure. The sequins and feathers are subtle but dramatic all at the same time. The coral silk skirt is generously gathered, holding its structure to create a dramatic silhouette but the elasticated waist is comfortable (and means that you can wear it on your waist or your hips). And lastly, do not fear ladies… the skirt has pockets!

FYI, both mum and I are wearing size small in the skirts.

If you wanted to tone down this look, you could of course wear the top with jeans - a high waisted, wide legged pair would look awesome. Alternatively you could wear the skirt with a jumper, the one around my shoulders would work well. Whip off the heels and stick on some ballet flats, loafers, knee high boots or even trainers and the look would also be great.

Mum’s outfit is much more the sort of thing that we might wear on Christmas Day. The elasticated skirt with a blouse and jumper is cool but comfy. Any outfit that looks as if you’ve made an effort without feeling like you’re trussed up like a Christmas turkey gets our vote!

I think that this frilly white blouse represents a great wardrobe staple. It’s perfect for jazzing up a jumper or cardigan. The quality is absolutely lovely. This one was bought in store and annoyingly I can’t see it online but whilst searching I came across some beautiful alternatives in Sézane that would also fit the bill.

I love knee high boots worn under the hem of a skirt. I really like the look of these slightly chunky ones with the ultra feminine silk skirt but that won’t be for everyone. A more classic pair like these would also look lovely, as would a pair of ballet pumps with a low denier tight. Alternatively, an opaque pair in a colour like burgundy would look fab.

I will leave you with one last thought…..never underestimate the power of leopard print! When it comes to party dressing, there’s usually room for the zesty animal print somewhere, wink wink.