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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I always struggle with Valentine's Day gifting, but Le Creuset has a tempting and timeless offeringThe Le Creuset Heart Collection makes for the perfect Valentine's Day gifts. There's something for everyone with heart-shaped Dutch ovens and deep dishes too
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After much deliberation, our beauty team have settled on their February nails - these are the chic shades that wonWe were torn between wanting a clean slate and matching the bitter climes, but our February nails are finally sorted...
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Sarah Jessica Parker took rainy day dressing to the most quintessentially British level in her Hunter wellies and raincoatSJP epitomised British styling with her rainy day look consisting of Hunter boots and a timeless raincoat
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Not sure how you feel about flares? Heidi Klum makes a strong case for switching up your skinny jeansShe elevated her flattering flares with a silk shirt and tan accessories back in 2014
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Thanks to Renée Zellweger, we need a pair of black leather capri pants immediatelyThe Mad About The Boy actress made the chicest case for black leather capri pants paired with a sleek black knit top and slouchy blazer - and we can't stop thinking about it
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You asked "are sheepskin slippers worth it?" I tested FitFlop's shearling sliders and the answer is undoubtedly yesFitFlop's shearling slippers are the cosiest addition to your at-home wardrobe
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Want a casual boot with more wow factor? Helen Skelton’s khaki Chelsea boots are just thatHelen Skelton has reminded us how brilliant Chelsea boots are when you want to feel put-together but not too dressy day-to-day
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Amanda Holden perfectly blends comfort with chic in wide leg satin trousers and cosy knit jumperLooking for the perfect cosy weekday look? Amanda Holden's on hand for inspiration
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We're still captivated by Amal Clooney's exquisite ivory and contrasting navy trim suit – it's a timeless wardrobe must-haveWe'd never want to take this outfit off
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Jennifer Aniston found two easy ways to elevate jeans – a satin bomber and fedora hat gives denim an instant liftThese stylish hats are perfect for windy spring weather
