Party wear for women who don’t do sequins

If you’ve been looking for party wear that doesn’t have a hint of metallic to it, you’re probably feeling pretty neglected by now. It’s two weeks to Christmas and you’ve yet to see a single article that doesn’t involve sequins, shimmer and shine. What’s a woman to do if she doesn’t fancy looking like a glitter ball for the next two weeks? Here are a few sartorial clues.

Try Velvet This gorgeously tactile fabric is the perfect option for someone who wants to add luxe to their look but in a more muted way. I’d wear this strappy velvet top over a soft grey T-shirt (check out Finery London for great quality, soft-touch T-shirts). It’s an understated but not underwhelming look.

Animal-print velvet top, €29.95 at Zara

Embrace brocade Brocade adds a regal vibe to an outfit, making whatever you put it with that little bit more special too. There’s plenty of brocade on the high street (River Island and Zara), but I’m showing you this Erdem skirt because it’s so beautiful and nobody does brocade better. If your budget stretches, I doubt you’ll ever regret this investment buy. I’d wear this piece with an oversized cashmere sweater – gorgeous. This is a perfect look for Christmas Day.

Metallic brocade skirt, Erdem, €936 (was €1,560) at net-a-porter.com

Experiment with sheer Begin with a dress such as this one from Topshop. There’s a modesty to it, but it doesn’t ruin the impact of the sheer fabric. I love the contrast between feminine florals and sexy sheer. It creates an elegant but directional effect.

Sheer ruched midi dress, €79 at & Other Stories