The festive season has snuck up on us and with it comes an unprecedented amount of invites to glitzy Christmas parties, work functions and end-of-year dos. The niggling question on all our minds is: what do I wear?

Bluewater’s resident stylist and founder of Miss Dress, Clare Waston brings some magic and glamour to your festive season look, helping you put your wardrobe conundrums to rest with three styles that are guaranteed to make heads turn.

Stand out with colour…

“This season we have waxed lyrical on more than one occasion about berry tones being a huge trend and party season is no exception.

“There's no disputing that black remains chic and classic but that doesn't mean that you can't have fun with a splash of colour as a stylish alternative.

“Add a bold statement necklace for extra glam and don't forget opaque tights with a cool heel. Or if you're feeling very brave, go bare leg with a chunky, strappy sandal! No wallflowers allowed this season...”  

News Shopper:

Eddie Dress (£139), Hobbs

Mix and match with skirt and shirt…

“Another new favourite of ours takes a step away from the traditional party dress and instead pairs divine high-waisted full skirts with cute cropped tops.

“Before you panic completely at the words "cropped top", fear not, the great thing about this look is that the skirts sit high enough to hide and disguise the tummy area so that in fact whatever little bit of flesh may be on show, is in fact your slimmest part.

“The slight flare of the skirt also makes it the ideal way to camouflage fuller hips and a cleverly chosen top will create balance and proportion in pear shaped ladies and equally emphasise and enhance lovely hourglass shapes.”

News Shopper:

News Shopper:

Chelsea Girl Tinsel Mini Skirt (£22) and Chelsea Girl Crop Top (£22) from River Island 

Fabulous festive fabric…

“A stunning trend which lends itself beautifully to the party season is brocade.

"This ornate, decadent looking fabric means that there is little need for additional accessories so all you have to do is whip on your dress and look fabulous.

"And just in case you're thinking that brocade is for the "older generation", think again, teaming a dress like this stunning little number with an edgy, cropped biker-style jacket will keep the look young and trendy for a look that requires minimum effort and maximum wow factor.“

News Shopper:

Eva Dress, Phase Eight (£110)