FASHION
HATE SEQUINS? THESE PARTY LOOKS DON’T NEED THEM
By Emma Strawbridge, 3 November 2025
WHAT PARTY OUTFIT SHOULD YOU WEAR IF YOU HATE SEQUINS?
'That’s the great thing about this season – you don’t have to go all out on sequins,' says Georgie. And she's right. Sequinless outfits don’t have to be dull – plenty of spotlight-stealing going-out tops and party dresses are forsaking sequins for sheer lace, tinsel and faux fur.
We’ve done the hard work for you and pulled together six outfits you can wear to party season and beyond. Keep scrolling for the looks that don't need sequins to shine.
TINSEL TEXTURES
Who needs sequins when you’ve got tinsel? When curating your casual holiday party outfits, turn texture into your statement-maker. This chocolate brown Topshop co-ord does just that thanks to the tinsel-like fabric. Give the outfit a modern finish with slick accessories and a pair of loafers. Need an elegant Christmas party outfit that doesn’t compromise on comfort? You’ve just made one.
GET THE LOOK:
Topshop tinsel set in brown, £42
Topshop Cade chunky sole loafer in black, £36
ASOS DESIGN textured mini grab clutch, £18
THE NEW LBD
We’ve seen scarf details taking over the runways, and now they’re infiltrating occasion dresses. This LBD has a halter neck with extra-long ties that replicate the scarf aesthetic. Make it graphic and bring dimension by teaming it with this season's favourite accessory: a stack of bangles. Plus metallic mules won't go amiss.
GET THE LOOK:
Topshop halterneck scarf detail mini dress in black, £49
Topshop Gem heeled mules with bow in silver, £38
Topshop Blaire 3 pack bangles in black and white zebra, £20
METALLIC MOMENT
Sheer pieces make great party outfits; this ASOS DESIGN top brings all the glitz without a sequin in sight, thanks to its shimmery finish. Georgie adds, 'Even if someone wants minimal shimmer, brooches and jewellery-inspired embellishments offer subtle sparkle, and can be just as impactful.' So take style notes from an ASOS designer – slip into a simple bralette and trousers for a tailored look, then add matching metal accessories to complement the silver of the top. It’s a casual party outfit that requires practically zero effort, but drips in it-girl energy.
GET THE LOOK:
ASOS DESIGN asymmetric shoulder sheer metallic top in black, £22
ASOS DESIGN tailored slim flare trouser in black, £35
Accessorize super sparkle barrette hair clip in silver, £14
FAUX FUR, OBVS
'Why not lean into a Hollywood glamour aesthetic with opulent fabrics?' Georgie suggests. Faux fur is everywhere right now, and we can’t say we’re surprised. Nothing gives drama like a shaggy coat – which is why they've made frequent appearances on runways and A-list celebrities this year. Pairing faux-fur coats with party tops is a decades-old formula – but the finishing touches are what really make or break an outfit. Keep the bold energy going with larger-than-life earrings and knee-high boots. A smokey eye and messy hair will complete this untamed look. Iconic.
GET THE LOOK:
Topshop faux mongolian fur mid lenght coat in white, £110
Topshop Taz premium real leather knee high heeled boots in burgundy, £140
Petit Moments glow crystal stone drop earrings in gold, £24
A LITTLE LACE
Lace is playing a major role in the AW25 partywear story, 'It's sexier and has that romantic dolce vita look,' says Georgie. But you don’t need to go head-to-toe in black lace if it isn't your vibe (although it would be a major power move). Play into the trend with a lace-trimmed dress – this Motel slip comes in leopard print – and put your accessories in neutral. Gold lovers, this outfit is your excuse to get gilded.
GET THE LOOK:
Motel philena lace edge leopard print cami dress in beige, £46
ASOS DESIGN North high heeled sandal with toe trim in clear, £42
MAC Macximal Sleek Satin Mini Lipstick- Dubbonet, £16
TAILOR MADE
Pictures: ASOS
If you need an elegant outfit for a party, look no further than tailoring. Georgie notes, 'Instead of a dress, you can focus on key silhouettes with sculpted shapes as they'll feel chic and luxe.' And nothing is more sophisticated than a waist-cinching blazer – this ASOS DESIGN style is just that and features padded shoulders for an artful silhouette. As we’re leaning into corpcore, it’s only right to sharpen up the look with a pair of capris, a clutch and kitten heels. You might be able to get away with this ‘fit during office hours, too.
GET THE LOOK:
ASOS DESIGN fitted high break point blazer in brown, £60
Steve Madden Lezley sling back kitten heels with buckle details in dark cherry, £120
Topshop Georgia folded clutch grab bag in silver, £28