Runway to revelry: 8 festive looks to own the party season
Discover eight dazzling trends inspired by the runway and red carpet
Highlights
From red-hot drama to shimmering metallics, discover eight dazzling trends inspired by the runway and red carpet — because this season, subtlety is simply not invited
1. Faux feathers, real glam
Feathers have long been a favourite for festive fashion, and this year, faux feathers are taking centrestage — combining glamour and sustainability. Gucci’s Pre-Fall 2024 collection introduced us to stunning faux-feather details that felt both playful and ethical. “Faux feathers are lighter, cruelty-free, and just as impactful,” shares Sabato De Sarno, Gucci’s creative head.
Get the Look: Look for faux-feather accents on cuffs, hems, or clutches. Kylie Jenner’s Oscar de la Renta gown inspired a love for feathery drama, but you can keep it simple with a faux-feather trim blazer or skirt.
2. The metallic moment
Metallics are owning the spotlight, from Balenciaga’s futuristic sequins to Louis Vuitton’s gilded suits. Nicolas Ghesquière explains the appeal: “Metallics aren’t just eveningwear; they’re moodwear. They bring energy, and they reflect confidence.”
Get the Look: A gold, bright pink, or silver sequined mini dress is your party go-to, but don’t shy away from unexpected metallic trousers or blazers. Zendaya’s jaw-dropping Tom Ford gold chainmail gown is a masterclass in how to rock metallics with poise. Pro tip? Keep your accessories understated — let the shine speak for itself.
3. Bigger, better, bows
Carolina Herrera’s Spring/Summer 2024 collection gave us whimsical, oversized bows that screamed elegance with a side of fun. Wes Gordon captured it perfectly: “A bow is more than an embellishment — it’s a personality.”
Get the Look: Whether it’s a strapless gown with a dramatic bow trailing down your back or a playful mini with a bow at the waist, this trend is a guaranteed showstopper. Remember Dua Lipa’s Met Gala look? That’s your inspiration. Pair the bow with sleek heels and subtle jewellery to keep it modern.
4. Velvet nights
Ralph Lauren’s velvet suiting this season is pure holiday perfection. “Velvet is a fabric that whispers luxury and coziness at the same time,” says Lauren. Jewel tones — think emerald green, sapphire blue, and ruby red — are this year’s go-to palette.
Get the Look: Steal the show in a tailored velvet blazer over wide-leg trousers, or embrace a sweeping velvet gown. Dua Lipa’s velvet jumpsuit earlier this year proved how versatile this trend can be. Add metallic accessories for a touch of contrast, and don’t forget bold make-up for that extra glam.
5. Red, red, radiance
Valentino’s Fall/Winter 2024 collection didn’t just hint at red; it was an all-out crimson celebration. Pierpaolo Piccioli described it best: “Red is the colour of confidence, power, and love. Head-to-toe crimson is a statement — it’s not for the faint-hearted.”
Get the Look: Think tailored pantsuits, flouncy gowns, or even a sultry slip dress. Jennifer Lawrence’s iconic red Dior moment at Cannes earlier this year proved that a minimalist red gown paired with a bold red lip is all you need to slay. For accessories? Keep it chic — gold or black works best.
6. Barely-there sheer
Fendi’s gauzy chiffon gowns gave us ethereal fantasy vibes on the runway this year. Silvia Venturini Fendi says, “The art of sheer is in the layering — it’s about the allure of what’s hinted at, not fully revealed.”
Get the Look: Florence Pugh’s sheer Valentino gown showed us how to do daring right. Layer a delicate slip under sheer fabrics or pair a sheer blouse with high-waisted trousers for an understated edge. If you’re feeling bold, let a lace bralette peek through.
7. Corsets with a modern twist
Corsets are having a moment, and Donatella Versace is leading the charge. “The modern corset isn’t about cinching — it’s about highlighting,” she says.
Get the Look: Megan Fox’s leather corset gown earlier this year was pure femme fatale energy. Pair a corset top with a flowing skirt for balance or opt for a full corset dress with bold boots. Add a smokey eye for that sultry edge and enter the party, to command it.
8. Glitter all the way
Chanel’s glitter-infused couture gowns are proof that more is more. “Glitter is the language of celebration,” says Virginie Viard. “There’s no such thing as too much sparkle — especially not for New Year’s Eve.”
Get the Look: Whether you choose a sequined jumpsuit like Taylor Swift’s tour look or a full-length glittering gown, make sure you’re ready to shine. Pair with statement earrings and metallic heels, and don’t forget to spritz on some shimmer mist for that all-over glow.