12 party dresses for women who don’t do sparkles

It’s party season which means sparkles galore but what if you don’t particularly like them? Here are 12 party dresses for women who don’t do sparkles 

The month of December is a neverending journey full of parties and events. These are usually glam affairs and as women, we often feel that sparkles are the only way to go when it comes to festive dressing. For that reason, the majority of clothing choices available at this time of year are adorned in glitz.

However, for many, sparkles, sequins and glitter are not sartorially pleasing. Some of the best Christmas season outfits are those which don’t scream; they are quietly chic and because they are separated from the status quo of party dressing, they are infinitely more appealing.

Once you get through the noise that is sparkle and glitter, there are some fabulous dresses for the taking from all of the best high-street retailers.

Satin and velvet

If sparkles aren’t your thing, look for dresses in satin and velvet. The sumptuous look and feel of both will help to move a dress from casual wear to event appropriate. Midi dresses are always a winner but why not try an on-trend babydoll style? The tiered mini smock dress from ASOS has an ethereal feel, while the COS khaki A-line dress is a piece you will wear well beyond the office Christmas party.

For maximum impact, go for bright colours such as the purple hue of the Topshop Boutique dress, or veer towards unexpected party prints such as the 1970’s floral motif of the Warehouse midi dress.

And if all else fails, go for an eternally chic and classic black dress. Our favourite is the twist-front midi dress from Simply Be.

Polka dot midi dress, €59.95 at Zara

ASOS Design high-neck tiered mini smock dress, €69.13 at Asos

Drop waist satin dress, €99 at Arket

Long dress with a scarf collar, €59.99 at H&M

Simply Be twist-front velour midi dress, €48.39 at Asos

Rust ruched bias satin slip dress, €46 at Topshop

Frilled A-line dress, €89 at COS

Purple open-back dress by Topshop Boutique, €130 at Topshop

Polka-dot belt dress, €59.99 at Violetta by Mango

Pink vilimina silk mix velvet dress, €299 at Whistles

Retro floral midi dress, €72 at Warehouse

Sylvia blue embroidered velvet midi dress, €270 at Kitri

Read more: 5 standout activewear brands to follow (and shop) on Instagram

Read more: 10 of the best knee-high boots to invest in for winter

Read more: 15 questions to ask yourself before buying a new item of clothing