Break out the bling to guarantee that you’ll shine this party season

Even the traditional party dress is vying for attention with jaw-dropping maxi gowns, statement suiting and even dress coats that work for dancefloor and outdoors.

This season, partywear is made for anti-wallflowers so don’t go for half measures. “Every woman needs the ‘wowzer’ dress,” says Marios Schwab, Edition designer at Debenhams.

“It’s not about trends. It’s about what looks interesting and at the same time makes her feel totally gorgeous.”

Whether you want to rock the baroque, go mad for metallics or indulge in sequin overdose, ‘tis the season to be outrageously OTT.

BAROQUE‘N’ROLL

Stand aside minimalists, excess and exuberance are this season’s buzzwords.

Return to an era of opulent luxury with Baroque period-inspired pieces that flaunt intricate embroidery, ornate brocade and gilded embellishment.

This is one of the few trends in which over-accessorising is perfectly acceptable, so team with regal bling and a statement bag.

METALLIC MEDLEY

Gold, silver, or bronze – metallics are the most decadent party colour palette.  Because the material is high-gloss, keep the silhouette clean and sleek to really outshine the competition.

Look for sultry matte metallics if you want a sophisticated, grown-up feel.

SPARKLE SAMBA

Give the festive disco balls some competition in sequins. Don’t look to the Strictly Come Dancing contestants for inspiration because this look is more glitterati than glitzy. Guarantee yourself a sparkling entrance in a floor-sweeping sequin gown.

Choose a darker colour such as black, gunmetal or deep purple for a more flattering look, as sequins can add bulk to your frame.

LACE LAMBADA

Lace is a classic fabric for evening chic.

But if you want to move away from  super-safe black, inject a sprinkle of Christmas magic with festive reds, golds and sapphire blues.