Tired of Dresses? Here are 5 Alternatives this Party Season
What to wear this party season that ISN’T a dress
Navy Long Sleeve Jumpsuit With Chiffon Sleeve, £62.00
Winter is well and truly here, bringing with it the sparkle of Christmas parties, New Year’s Eve celebrations, and a calendar full of festive gatherings. As the season of dressing up is here, now is the perfect opportunity to refresh your party wardrobe. But instead of reaching for the usual sequinned dress, why not try something a little more unexpected and fashion-forward?
Megan Watkins, Head Stylist at online fashion destination SilkFred tells YCB, “Dresses are beautiful, but they’re not the only way to look festive and fabulous. This season, it’s all about mixing textures, playing with tailoring, and embracing trends like mohair, burgundy, and sparkle in unexpected ways.”
Black Mesh Star Print Long Sleeve Top, £35.00
Here, Megan shares her 5 dress alternatives for party season:
1. The Luxe Jumpsuit
Sophia Wide Leg Jumpsuit Velvet Green, £79.00
Giselle Cowl Neck Long Sleeve Jumpsuit In Black, £46.00
“A tailored jumpsuit is effortlessly chic and practical for a busy host or a night of dancing,” says Megan. Look for styles in jewel tones like emerald or sapphire, or go all out with velvet or sequinned details.
- Pair with metallic ballet flats for a nod to the balletcore trend, or heeled boots for added edge.
- Add statement earrings or a sparkly clutch for that touch of festive glamour.
2. Oversized Tailoring
Issa Belted Black Blazer Dress, £169.00
“An oversized blazer and wide-leg trousers in a rich fabric like burgundy velvet or black satin are a power move,” Megan suggests.
- Layer with a sheer blouse underneath for a peek of texture and add mohair accessories for a wintery feel.
- Finish with sleek pointed-toe heels or glittery tights peeking out from cropped hems.
3. Sequin Suiting
El Pirata Red Sequin Trouser, £49.00
El Pirata Long Sleeve Sequin Short Tie Kimono In Red, £55.00
“For those who love sparkle but want a modern twist, a sequin blazer and matching trousers are a bold choice,” says Megan.
- Keep the rest of your look simple with strappy heels and a silk camisole or bralette.
- Bonus: You can mix and match the blazer and trousers with other pieces in your wardrobe all year round.
4. Tailored Trousers with a Statement Top
Black Wide Leg Trousers, £33.99
Megan recommends pairing high-waisted tailored trousers with an embellished or sheer blouse.
- “A burgundy or metallic top instantly feels festive, and you can play with accessories like a velvet belt to define your waist,” she advises.
- Ballet flats or suede boots make this look comfortable yet polished.
5. The Mohair Moment
Mohair Effect Jumper In Baby Blue, £32.99
“Mohair might not scream ‘party’ at first, but when styled right, it’s perfect,” Megan explains.
Add sparkle with a chunky necklace or layered bracelets, and don’t forget a bold lip to complete the look.
Try a cropped mohair sweater with a high-waisted midi skirt or wide-leg trousers in a jewel tone.