As for something new, treat yourself, it’s Christmas! The easiest way to add a seasonal upgrade is through accessories. Try a chunky necklace, a pair of dazzling earrings or a bevy of brooches. Maximum impact, minimum effort. There’s no need to spend a fortune, when cheap and cheerful costume jewellery is so impactful. Check out Anthropologie, Butler & Wilson, Oliver Bonas, Mango and Branch, while Vicki Sarge’s jewellery has been worn by Helen Mirren, Olivia Coleman (in The Favourite) and the kitchen disco queen herself, Sophie Ellis Bexter. If you fancy a blast of colour, Prue Leith’s collaboration with Lola Rose is still available. Take my advice, go big and go home.
Call me contrary but when everyone else brings out their colourful, attention-grabbing party clothes, I want to do the opposite. Whatever the occasion, black eveningwear never fails to look chic. Keep an ensemble elegant and simple, then add metallic highlights for subtle showiness. At the British Fashion Awards 2021, Kristen Scott Thomas looked gorgeous with her new gronde bob, full-length black satin gown and silver accessories.
For something that makes you go “ooh”, fancy flats are the way forward. At Christmas, I’m a firm believer in less is more; with a pair of sparkly shoes and statement earrings there’s no need to be trussed up like an out-of-work pantomime dame. Fashion often gets a bad rap, but it can bring comfort and joy.
