The dated party season looks you must avoid, and the chic, anti-ageing outfits to wear instead, as selected by our expert HANNAH SKELLEY

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Now we’re in November the High Street is suddenly awash with its annual offering of spangly sequin midi dresses, fuzzy slogan jumpers – some of which sing or light up – along with glitzy clutch bags and metallic stilettos.

The selection may well be dazzling, but if you want to get event dressing right this season you need to put your blinkers on. Feathers, sequins and novelty jumpers or jangly earrings are just some of the partywear faux pas to avoid this winter.

Welcome to the era of pared back, sophisticated party dressing and investing in pieces that you can wear well beyond December and into next year.

Scroll for the new soiree style rules.

The sequinless party dress (instead of one that resembles a disco ball)

The magpies among us may not like the idea of throwing on something without a sheen to it, but sequin dresses never get much more than one wear and often they come in trending – rather than timeless – silhouettes that don’t age well. 

This festive season it’s all about the anti-sparkle: sleek, sophisticated midi and mini dresses with draping, subtle embellishments, embroidery and ruching – in sumptuous rich colours instead of metallics. 

It’s the grown-up take on event dressing, and you’ll find yourself reaching for these styles again and again. And yes, black is acceptable! As are polka dots. You don’t have to drench yourself in red and green.

Graphic t-shirt (rather than a festive jumper)

If you prefer being laid back to laced up, fun graphic t-shirts are a better alternative to an itchy, garish knit. Tuck yours into a leopard print skirt, leather trousers or a pair of embellished jeans (read on for more on these). Amp up the look further with chunky statement jewels. I have my eye on the cheeky cherry printed style from Never Fully Dressed. Or the racing green ‘Yes sir, I can boogie’ organic cotton iteration inspired by the 1977 hit by Baccara from Wolf & Badger. 

If you’re after a cropped look, Ruby Loot stocks some of the best baby tees around and the slogans are hilarious. These tops are a fabulous conversation starter and are also perfect for Twixmas when you want to feel slightly elevated – even if you’re only celebrating at home.

Slouchy velvet suiting (not fitted tuxedos)

Suiting has gone slouchy: if your tuxedo is fitted, you’ll risk looking outdated (or as though you’re vying for a spot on The Apprentice). 

Opt for wide-leg trews – avoid tapered designs – and stick to blazers with oversized lapels, plunging necklines and shoulder pads to achieve the loose masculine fit that’s trending right now. 

If you’re feeling brave, wear yours with nothing underneath or tap into the revival of lace with a bralette or bodysuit. For petite ladies, this is your chance to wear your chunkiest platforms. Or dress the look down with trainers or leg lengthening point-toe flats.

Bows (not feathers)

To avoid resembling Big Bird, choose bows rather than feathers if you like a festive embellishment. 

Inspired by the hit London Fashion Week designer Simone Rocha, it hits the sweet spot between playful and party-ready – plus it won’t malt all over your sofa. 

I love Anthropologie’s elegant oxblood velvet mini. Kitri’s black bandeau with a column of bows is also right on the money. For a bit of subtle sparkle, try River Island’s natty knit.

Embellished denim (instead of sequin trousers)

Sparkly pants are a no-no. This winter, bedazzled denim is the way to go instead. It errs on the right side of smart-casual and you can easily wear them to the office and on to dinner afterwards. 

Stradivarius make some of the best for less than £50. But if you want to invest in this timeless trend then head to Levi’s or Maje. 

Disco flats (forget unwalkable heels)

If you can’t walk properly in them, don’t wear them. Heels have long been sloping off the radar, after being replaced with pretty ballerina flats, Mary Janes and mules. 

Leopard print, rhinestones and textured pony hair are all on the sartorial set list this party season. Leave the platforms at home – your feet will thank you.

Statement studs (better than novelty chandeliers)

Dangling Santa faces, reindeers and snowmen belong on your Christmas tree, not your ear lobes. 

Statement studs will give a dazzling finish to your look instead. By Alona is my favourite haunt for vintage-inspired treasures. Daisy’s lattice studs have been trending all summer long. But if you’re on a budget, Zara’s are also fabulous.

Shoulder bag (not a clutch)

Clutch bags are never ideal to hold when you’ve got a drink (or two) in hand. Instead, try a jazzy shoulder bag. Studs, zebra print, Dalmatian spots and metallic styles will all work nicely – especially if you’ve gone for a grown up anti-sparkle event dress. 

My favourite comes from Topshop. Or try Polene for a woven wonder that you won’t want to put down.

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