What to Wear to a Christmas Party: A Velvet Maxi Dress Style Guide (UK)

Christmas party season calls for something with a little more drama than your everyday wardrobe, and velvet does it without trying too hard. It looks rich in low light, feels warm in winter and photographs beautifully. Here's how to choose and style a velvet maxi dress for the party season.

Why velvet works in winter

Velvet has a soft pile that catches the light, so even a simple shape looks dressed up. Blends with a little stretch, such as velvet mixed with polyester and spandex, tend to be more comfortable for sitting, dancing and long evenings.

Details that make a difference

• One-shoulder neckline: a statement shape that needs very little jewellery.
• High waist and pleating: defines the waist and gives the skirt a flowing line.
• Side slit: adds movement and makes walking and dancing easier in a floor-length dress.
• Lining: a smooth inner lining helps velvet sit well against the skin.

Choosing a colour

Deep, rich shades are classic for winter. Our velvet maxi dress comes in black, blue, burgundy, green, light green and light grey. Black and burgundy are easy to dress up or down; blue and green stand out in a room full of black dresses; light grey and light green give a softer, more unexpected look.

How to style it

• Keep jewellery simple with a one-shoulder neckline: studs or a statement earring, rather than a big necklace as well.
• Heels and a clutch bag complete the look; flat evening shoes work if you will be on your feet all night.
• Add a wrap or tailored coat for the walk between the car and the venue.

Beyond the Christmas party

A velvet maxi is not only for the office party. It also works for weddings, date nights and New Year's Eve, so it earns its place in the wardrobe beyond December.

Before you buy, check the product page for sizing details and the care instructions.