Creating an exuberant look without sliding from classy to brassy can be tricky at this time of year. Too often, good sense goes out of the window in favour of a flounce. Pinpoint where your event lands on the scale — from casual after-work cocktails to red-carpet dinner — and dress appropriately. But don’t be afraid to embrace a seasonal trend. Sequins, this autumn, were big catwalk news (the trend is gathering momentum for spring, too) so a sprinkling of paillettes will look very au courant — just keep in mind that a simple silhouette works best. A softer option, yet equally alluring, are home furnishing-style fabrics; not as drab as they sound, once you try out the season’s brocades and jacquards in pretty wallpaper florals.
It’s hard to go wrong with a little black dress. But bring it up to date by opting for a new cut: a barely there slip dress or off-the-shoulder style will refresh the look. What’s more, the joy of the LBD is being able to continually reinvent it with new jewellery and shoes — farewell, Christmas bonus.
Getting really dressed up? Indulge in a gown that recalls bygone glamour and flirts with nostalgia. After all, Max Mara dedicated its AW15 show to Marilyn Monroe. Summon your inner film star, spritz on some perfume and it’s the time to shine . . .