Maximalists have been patiently awaiting the festive season for 11 whole months, and now that it is finally here, there is absolutely zero time to waste.
What the month lacks in temperature, it more than makes up for in decadence, and this year we're all about taking things to new, show stopping heights.
No doubt you will have a cocktail party or two to attend, which means that you'll have something steeped in pizazz to help you stand out from the crowd.
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But what does the term 'cocktail attire' refer to exactly? Essentially it means an ensemble that is relatively formal, but not verging into full-on evening wear. Polished, but with a celebratory flair is a good vibe to aim for.
The Christmas period lends itself perfectly to indulgent design features – think sequins, feathers, metallics and lustrous silks – and this year poses no exception.
British mother-daughters label Harmur has put a luxurious, textural spin on the classic LBD with its high-necked plush velvet mini dress, whereas Self-Portrait is all about the ultra-flattering metallic ribbed-knit. If you're looking to amp up the drama, look no further than 16 Arlington and Taller Marmo for a feathery boost, or be sure to check out Rixo for a lustrous sequin hit.
Hello! Fashion shares our favourite cocktail attire pieces to shop this season:
Black high neck velvet mini dress, £435, Harmur
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Saloni Camille crystal-bow velvet mini dress, £625, Matches Fashion
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Self-Portrait green metallic midi dress, £370, Mytheresa
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READ: The 7 finest silk shirts to wear all party season
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Alessandra Rich Chelsea-collar silk-crepe de chine dress, £1,375, Matches Fashion
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Magda Butrym floral appliqué minidress, £1,184, Mytheresa
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Rixo Samantha sequined crepe mini dress, £295, Net-A-Porter
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Taller Marmo Ubud one-shoulder feather-trimmed crepe gown, £1,600, Net-A-Porter
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16 Arlington Odessa cut-out feather-trimmed satin mini dress, £1,105, Net-A-Porter
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