It's party season and while we may not be following the traditional festive knees-up this year, there's still every reason to dress up, show up and cheer up during the most wonderful time of the year. And what better way to sparkle than with a splash of seasonal sequin? Love them or loathe them, sequins are to Christmas what florals are to spring and if worn in the right way, can make a stylish statement no matter what your age or dress code.
Not just the reserve of the Strictly dance floor, there are plenty of grown-up, chic ways that sequins can jazz up your outfit – even if it is just to add a little glamour to your at-home ensemble. Because if you can't at Christmas, when can you?
Sequins can even look chic for daytime wear, and as we all hunker down for a more pared-down Christmas season (thank goodness for the Crown), you can even dress up your loungewear with some sequin joggers or embellished sweatshirt. Yep, you heard right! Not convinced? Read on for our top tips to sparkle your way through the season.
Team with denim
Pairing a sequin jumper with jeans or a denim jacket can instantly dress down the party outfit vibe that sequins can emit. Think dark indigo jeans for a formal option or traditional stonewash for a casual alternative.
Go neutral
When we think of sequins, it's hard not to think of bright pinks, greens and blues from our childhood birthday parties or dance costumes. Instead, opt for black, silver, blush or nude sequin tones that look more sophisticated and can be teamed with anything.
Pair with knitwear
A great silver sequin jumper will look effortlessly chic paired with a cashmere skirt and woollen coat of the same hue, or vice versa with a sequin skirt and woollen top. Knitwear will instantly soften the eye-catching shine of sequins and add a grown-up element to the outfit.
Go easy on the accessories
Let's face it, sequins are attention-grabbing – they're shiny and catch the light; it's part of what we love about them. But as a result, keep other accessories such as jewellery, hats and belts to a minimum to not overwhelm your look. Small hoop earrings or studs are perfect, or an understated bracelet or two are great for pulling an outfit together without going OTT.
Just a hint
Although you could be forgiven for thinking that those who don sequins require a certain level of confidence, anyone can adapt the look to what they're comfortable with. Don't want to go for an all-over sequin dress? No problem. Start with a sequin bag, beret, scarf or shoes to get used to the style statement. From sequin trainers to a splattering of embellishment on a cardigan, there are plenty of options to introduce sequins into your wardrobe.
Go vintage
Nothing says glamour quite like a vintage sequin flapper dress or clutch bag. Unlike modern day embellishments, vintage sequins are soft, understated and less shiny. They are also more likely to have weathered slightly, giving them more character, and the colours are considerably more muted so they're not so in-your-face. Channel your inner Marilyn Monroe for chic shimmer.
Don't forget leather
We know, sequins and leather sounds completely OTT, but mixing a chic and timeless texture such as leather does the same job as denim – it calms everything down and also gives a modern, cool vibe. Layer your sequin dress with a leather jacket or pair a sequin jumper with some straight leg leather trousers and ankle boots. You can thank us later.
Article by Jessica Harris
Willowberry is 'Nutritious Natural' skincare for grown-ups for your best skin. Launched in 2017, Willowberry is an award-winning independent British brand that has gained a cult following. Loved by top make-up artists, the streamlined, highly effective range protects skin’s natural barrier function to nourish and transform grown-up skin, with indulgent formulas that feed the skin and soul.
