Cosy Casuals & Christmas Glam

Our shopaholic and resident clothes horse Samantha Martin has been looking at what’s in store for us this Autumn and Winter in the fashion stakes

Remember last Christmas when we were all dressed up and nowhere to go? Yep, I’ve still got the amazing little black dress hanging in the wardrobe unworn. Probably with the tags still attached for good measure.

So, this year we are all about the glitz and glam, the highest of heels and the most dazzling of accessories to make up for Christmas past. Whilst also remembering that it’s cold out there and we do live in rather wet and chilly Lancashire and not the Bahamas.

These Boots Probably Aren’t Made for Walking
When it comes to heels, the higher the better, and at long last the stiletto is taking a back seat to a chunkier heel and my all-time favourite, the platform. Granted sky high heels aren’t always the easiest to walk in, but a chunky heel does make it less of a balancing act.

Textures and patterns are making a standard block colour boot more of a statement item. The good old animal print is still with us and if you want all out glitz then River Island have gone all out-glitter disco with these amazing high boots.

But if you do prefer your boots to be of the walking variety whilst maintaining a fashion edge, then Timberland and the legendary Doc Martens are firmly in the fashionistas shoe rack this year. You can even go for a big chunky heel walking boot style. They may not be great for climbing any mountains though.

Keeping It Snug
If you’re planning a cosy family Christmas, then it’s compulsory to have matching pyjamas or at least Christmas jumpers. My personal favourites this year are from The Range. I’ve yet to inform my family that I’ve already decided their Christmas Day outfits.

But when you do venture out this year, you’ll be sure to find a coat to match every outfit and boot variety. Fur (faux of course) and Shearling are still huge, the good old Mac is always ideal for those days when the weather can’t make its mind up or you’ve got lots of layers on underneath. Leather biker jackets are looking great over the little black dress or a silky slip dress. And for the days when you’re keeping it casual and need to wrap up warm, then there’s a puffer jacket in just about every colour, pattern, shape, and size.

Primark have a range of gorgeous long duster jackets that are great for throwing over your dress. Or if you prefer a more casual cosy throw over, then long belted knit cardigans are still with us this year.

All About The Bling
No outfit is complete without the accessories. For Christmas then it has to be the festive earrings with matching selfie ready glasses.
If you are going for a block colour outfit or all black, then topping it off with a bright or glitzy clutch bag looks fabulous. Heels to match are optional on this one.

Oliver Bonas will be serving up a statement bag ordering you to party all night this festive season and will be available to order from November.

If you prefer something more delicate and understated in your jewellery collection, Hot Diamonds White Topaz range has caught my eye (that is a hint to anyone buying me a gift this year).

Say Yes To The Dress
The all-important dress. Whether it’s for the office Christmas party or an outing with your friends and family, us women seem to obsess over finding that perfect dress.

This year I’m injecting some colour and patterns in to my Winter wardrobe. From brightly coloured slip dresses, with a leather jacket thrown over and huge heels, to animal print dresses, patterned flowing pleated skirts to bold block colour matching outfits.

Joe Browns are going with pattered dresses and smart dress coats.

I found this gorgeous dark floral skirt at From My Mothers Garden, which makes a great alternative to black, with more deep purple tones.

Hope Fashion are going bold with this cobalt blue organza skirt.

And Matalan are going for a striking snakeskin look in silver for a real eye-catching party look.

Cocoove also have the most gorgeous silver sequin wrap dress that looks like a New Year’s Eve must!

All That Sparkles
If you prefer a Christmas or sparkling jumper look for the office party, then there are plenty to choose from.

A sequin star black jumper teamed up with a black pencil leather skirt, and don’t forget the textured boots to really give your look a mixed fabric feel.

Or perhaps go for a more multi coloured sequin jumper look that can be teamed up with pretty much anything. I love this M&Co zigzag look.

And there are plenty of Christmas jumpers out there that avoid the tacky look and go for more of a classy but snug look.

Santa hats and reindeer gloves are always optional.

And For The Men
Men have it so much easier when it comes to fashion. You can’t go wrong with a well tailored suit and luckily skinny jeans are now an absolute no for men. It’s straight legs all the way.

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