Glad Rags, Heels & Handbags

 

The On-Trend Party Season:

 

Curve-Conscious Dressing

 

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Thanks to the likes of Roland Mouret the curvy hourglass is very much back in vogue. The High Street has followed suit with all sorts of pull-in and push-out silhouettes. Corset dresses and tops push up the boobs while cinching the waist. Pencil skirt shapes show off the curve of the hip while tulip styles take the look one step further. Don’t forget the most flattering length for a pencil or fitted skirt is just below the knee and those not fond of their legs can always go for the knee-high boot option. Meanwhile, a choice sash belt that pulls in the waist provides a quick fix on the update front.

 

Where: Oasis, Karen Millen and TopShop.

 

 

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Romantic Chiffon Layers

 

A few stories this season incorporated themes such as Gothic Fantasy, Boudoir Belle and Russian Ballet. The result on the High Street is slinky slips of chiffon that can be layered over or under simple basics. Take your pick from cami-tops, Edwardian look blouses, vintage style prom dresses and empire line shapes. Details include raw hems, satin bows plus a subtle amount of sequins, beading and embellishment.

 

Where: Kookai, Miss Selfridge and H&M.

 

 

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Looking Luxe

 

This party season think rich luxurious fabrics; brocades, satins, velvets, jacquards and furs (fake of course). A hot favourite on the High Street is the fitted velvet jacket in a deep jewel shade – many include a satin tie-fastening for additional touchy-feely opulence. Velvet combined with light chiffon is another key look when it comes to eveningwear, along with little bolero jackets, fur wraps and touches of intricate lace. It’s Film Noir all the way – in simple shades and silhouettes.

 

Where: Next, Warehouse and Mango.

 

 

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A Little Wrap Number

 

A classic Diane Von Furstenberg wrap dress can take you a long way. First and foremost it flatters most body shapes as well as maintaining top timeless appeal. As you’d expect there’s plenty of black jersey out there but if you are looking for a more evening inspired alternative why not try a satin or embellished version. New details to be found this season include kimono style sleeves, decorative borders and beaded necklines.

 

Where: TopShop, French Connection and Autograph – M&S.  

 

 

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A Classic Little Black Dress

 

Well, I think most females up and down the land own one of these and if the silhouette is not too dated then you can always freshen up the reliable classic with a few choice accessories. For those on the lookout for a new little black number then the strappy embellished black shift dress at Reiss, or the layered fit and flare dress at John Lewis might fit the bill.

 

 

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Party Wear 2005

 

 

Key Colours:               

 

Black – glossy & mat

 

Deep Purple

 

Soft Berry

 

Pale Silver & Gold    {mosimage}

 

Inky Blue          

 

Emerald

 

Ruby

 

Accents of pale pink, nude, white and faded metallics

 

 

Ruby frock by Miss Selfridge

 

Geisha jacket by French Connection

 

 

And Those Essential {mosimage}

Accessories:

 

 

Peep toe heels

 

Lacy tights

 

Animal skin clutch bags

 

Velvet ribbon lace-up heels

 

Skinny Scarves

 

Sash belts

 

High-heel knee-high boots    {mosimage}

 

Tasseled shoulder bags

 

Decorative chokers

 

Shoulder wraps

 

 

Peep-toe heels by Phase Eight

 

Bow bag by ASOS.COM

 

 

By JoJo Iles