10 PARTY-SEASON DROPS FROM YOUR FAVOURITE BRANDS

I tried making plans with a friend this week – just a humble coffee, no frills. When I went to check my calendar, however, I was shocked to find a schedule packed well into the wee weeks of 2026. Now don’t be mistaken, I’m not using this piece to gloat about my busy social life. Like many people, 11 out of 12 months in my year are relatively quiet. But December justifies the adage of ‘saving the best for last’: it whips around and promptly drowns us in enough outings, parties and social commitments to fill the rest of the year and then some.

At this stage in life (that being the stage of glamorous partying), we’ve usually sorted ourselves into one of two camps: the dress girl, or the suit girl. And ASOS DESIGN delivers across the board. ‘This season channels a modern interpretation of la dolce vita,’ says Georgie. ‘The focus is on rich, romantic tones paired with sleek silhouettes and a cleaner, contemporary edge.’ This sculpted tux nails the brief thanks to the classic contrast lapel and structural waist. As for the more feminine among us, nothing beats an embellished dress at this time of year – particularly in a cool-toned fabric. From the detailed bust to the floral design, this dress was made to be seen in.

 

GET THE LOOK: 

ASOS DESIGN ultimate sculpted tux suit in black, £100
ASOS DESIGN oversized floral embellished sequin maxi dress, £175

If your social arrangements require a little less wow-factor, Topshop serves up some top-notch accessories and staples. Finding the perfect ‘night out’ bag can be a bit of a challenge: you want something small but practical, understated but stylish – and there’s no point investing in a forgettable clutch. This scoop shoulder bag strikes the perfect balance, with a seasonal gold sequin finish that’s offset by the simple silhouette. Bonus that it’s surprisingly roomy. As for the top? Sometimes all you need is the perfect piece to pair with jeans. This satin halter is expertly cut, deliciously minimal and still has some party in the back.

 

GET THE LOOK: 

Topshop satin halter top in black, £36
Topshop Santana scoop sequin shoulder bag in gold, £28

I’d be foolish to drop this list without mention of ARRANGE, which has quickly become my MVP of partywear. While all their pieces are delightfully unique and elevated, these two have been burning a hole in my Saved Items since they dropped. The velvet rouleau dress combines a warming fabric with intricate spiral details, and the chocolate brown shade couldn’t be more apt for the autumn/winter season. Continuing the velvet theme, this embroidered top features the brand’s bespoke cut work, offering a decidedly different take on your usual evening blouse.

 

GET THE LOOK: 

ARRANGE velvet rouleau embroidered bandeau midi dress in brown, £220
ARRANGE embroidered velvet quilted cut work halterneck high neck top in black, £90

All of us have a glam side, and Wanderdoll is a brand that knows how to coax her out of hiding. Its cinched dresses and co-ords are a mainstay of eveningwear at this point – and their latest drops continue to scratch my outfit inspo itch. I love this red mini dress as a festive choice that veers away from sequins, plus the high neck brings a dash of demure. If you’re in the market for something lacy, this floor-length dress is also a winner. ‘Lace is a defining element this season,’ says Georgie, ‘appearing both as delicate accents and in full romantic silhouettes.’ From the long sleeves to the corseted waist and auburn shade, consider this your ticket to guest-of-honour status.

 

GET THE LOOK: 

Wanderdoll Eman sculpted high neck sleeveless drape detail mini dress in red, £75
Wanderdoll Juliette square neck corset detail lace maxi dress in chocolate, £95

Continuing the red theme, but this time a decidedly subtler shade, & Other Stories has dropped a blinder with this berry midi. Bias-cut satin falls effortlessly for a dynamic gown that would put a tall glass of Merlot to shame. On the shorter side, their sequin black mini features a keyhole collar – transforming an otherwise lovely look into something far more memorable. I’m certain a slick bun and razor-sharp heels were invented purely for this dress.

 

GET THE LOOK: 

& Other Stories sequins mini dress with keyhole collar in dark black, £229
& Other Stories bias cut satin midi dress in purple berry, £97