As a fashion editor with over a decade of experience writing about party season dressing, my advice for anyone would be to find two key pieces: a classic little black dress and a good pair of velvet trousers.
Trust me, if you're trying to plan Christmas party outfits, velvet trousers will change your life. Not only are they available in the most festive colours like flattering black, rich burgundy and Christmas tree green, they are so easy and cosy to wear and will make you feel incredibly confident. Whether you choose slim or wide leg fit, they'll give you a sleek silhouette, and the beauty of a classic pair of black velvet trousers is that unlike a normal pair of tailored trousers, you honestly can get away with adding in a blazer that doesn't actually match. Who will be able to tell? Nobody.
Inspired by our recent trip down memory lane, reminiscing about Carole Middleton's velvet trousers, I've hit the virtual high street to find the 9 best velvet trousers to help you show your soft side this party season. Team any of the styles below with a crisp white shirt, a camisole or a matching blazer.
Shop the best velvet trousers on the high street
There's a reason we all love Zara quite so much. My treasured velvet blazer is actually from Zara, and the only reason I didn't buy the matching trousers is because they'd already sold out! Don't make the same mistake as me - add these to your winter capsule wardrobe, pronto.
In a rich merlot colour, these might just be my favourite. The go-faster stripe down the side is classic ME+EM and will elongate your leg even if you only wear them with your most comfortable trainers. Check out the ME+EM sale if you're in the mood for a bargain.
These are the pair that I have, and at less than half price (with an extra 20% off for Black Friday!), I'm seriously considering buying more. I thought they were going to be too long on the leg. But when I tried them on I was immediately sold. They always get compliments and feel really smart - perfect for any festive work events you might have in the diary.
Sequins and velvet? The dream! Mint Velvet is one of my favourite British clothing brands at the moment, and these are a great example of their very chic aesthetic. Keep your top and shoes simple to allow these showstopper trousers to do all the talking...
Reiss is renowned for doing tailoring well, and I love the teal colour of these trousers. They're available in regular or petite lengths, but if they're a bit too much of an investment, head to our Reiss Black Friday finds.
These wide leg trousers look like they should cost ten times the price. The embellishment at the pockets is stunning, and they'll add a subtle bit of sparkle to your wardrobe for the colder months.
So festive! Mango's getting in on the action with these berry red trousers. Don't be afraid to fully embrace it, adding red heels and of course, red lipstick to complete the Christmassy look.
You probably know Nobody's Child for their flattering floral midi dresses, but did you know their suits and separates are well worth shopping too? These black velvet trousers are a great alternative to denim and need only a nice top.
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Bye skinny jeans, hello palazzo trousers - Meghan Markle nails New York spring style with her ultra-wide leg lookJeans will never fully be replaced in my wardrobe but I’ve been finding myself drawn to wearing trousers more and more recently.
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Dr Amir Khan reveals the 5 'sneaky' bad habits that may be damaging your health without you realisingThe doctor took to Instagram to discuss the unhealthy habits to break for better work-life balance, sleep, and wellbeing
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Everyone in New York is wearing a trending colourway that will elevate your everyday wardrobe, including Naomi WattsSpotted head to toe in a rich, warm tan at the Ralph Lauren show, Watts shows us exactly why we should be investing in these classic hues
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I thought my swimsuit shopping days were done - then I discovered this must-have H&M optionPriced at just under £25, the H&M padded-cup swimsuit outshone my designer style
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Adidas Sambas have been trending for months now - but Fearne Cotton just wore hers in the most refreshing wayWe’re still a few months away from sandal season and Fearne Cotton has inspired us to reach for our Sambas so much more.
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Helen Skelton's layered look is giving me plenty of country chic style inspiration this Earth DayShe paired a mocha-coloured jumper with a blue shirt and a pair of wellies by Kate Middleton's favourite brand
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Helen Mirren's go-to accessory is a royal favourite that makes your outfit wedding season readyIf there’s one accessory we associate with Dame Helen Mirren it surely has to be this - and it’s the perfect piece for special occasions.
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Clodagh McKenna’s olive green Zara trousers are under £60 - this springtime essential will get you ditching your jeansJeans will always have a place in our wardrobe but a great pair of tailored trousers makes a lovely change and can be equally versatile.
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Sarah Jessica Parker's diamante bag is giving her iconic Fendi Baguette a run for its money - and it costs far lessA crystal-covered accessory is a surefire way to add some wow-factor to your outfit
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Ruth Langsford's bold cricket jumper is convincing me to wear yellow long after Easter is overHer knitwear is an easy way to work the butter yellow trend into your wardrobe
