Dressing Up
in collaboration with NET-A-PORTER
There are only a few more weeks left in December and whether you’ve been invited to a party in the run up to Christmas or just wondering what to wear for the big night itself, I’ve come up with some dressing solutions that I would feel comfortable in.
The irony of this piece is not lost on me as with a young family, the last 3 NYE’s have been spent in swimwear and a sarong with a t-shirt thrown on top, hanging out on our balcony watching the fireworks with friends.
I currently have no idea what we’ll be doing this year, probably same friends, different balcony but I’m thinking that I might make a bit more effort in the dressing department: see beaded cream mini dress of dreams below or the tropical linen with the straw skirt, SO fun, but possibly too many fun bits for little hands to grab at (also possibly better for a tropical island setting). Then there’s the little black organza dress in the most amazing cut, perfect for throwing over swimwear or nice underwear as under a flash it’s completely see-through.
PS my favourite Khaite sandals are on sale.
There aren’t many bags that work equally as well in a casual sense as they do in a going out sense but this I think is one of them. I love the colour, it works really well with the printed linen dress above and gives a nice pop of muted colour, making both mini dresses feel more 90s cool.
One of the most used items in my wardrobe to throw on over any going out look is an over-sized black blazer (it gives the same effect as when you borrow your boyfriends at a wedding, thrown together = instantly more effortless and relaxed)
For colder climates I would thoroughly recommend investing in a full length black wool coat, this one by Lou Lou Studio is on sale.
If you really don’t want to have to get out of your PJs . . . .
The perfect outfit if you are staying in and want to feel cozy but a bit glam. Satin, silk or velvet slinky trousers and a cashmere / alpaca or mohair jumper works well if you are going to someone's house or the pub for drinks and the weather is cold – you want to feel comfortable but look like you’ve made an effort. The trick to making it look elevated and elegant is to not make the top and bottom too contrasting, similar shades make the overall effect more flattering and elevated.
In the same vein as the above and another look I’ve leaned into for years, a simple bias cut silk skirt and jumper in the same tone, Christopher Esber has come up with the perfect answer to this and has sewn them together.
If you’re a die hard jeans and a nice top kinda gal, this look feels timeless and elegant but mostly super cool, also in this case the contrast of the faded jeans and the darker shirt works.
A very nice top and jeans look.
I have this top and pants and LOVE wearing them, quite possibly one of the comfiest going out OUT looks I have in my wardrobe.
Such a great top, feels dressier than your regular silk shirt and is a real transformer when it comes to styling. Add a long black column skirt and you have a super chic dress-esq silhouette, add trousers and it becomes an elegant jumpsuit, plus it’s one of the nicest tops to wear with jeans.
Back to the PJ-esq look but this time, make it silk. This set has cult status for a reason, the embroidery makes it feel really special and it’s one of the most comfortable / elevated pieces you could own. It also comes in the best shade of green if you are feeling extra festive.
If the dress code is black tie then you cant go wrong with a long slip dress, just add a blazer over your shoulders.
If you want to be warm then long sleeves and a high neck are the ticket, this dress by Solace (a great brand that do a wide range of long sleeved options) would make the perfect NYE option!
If you are pregnant and need something that works with a bump I adore this.
Keeping it super simple, a black cashmere turtleneck with jeans and boots can be instantly transformed into something special with the right bag.
