I Have Classic, Minimalist Style—Here's How I'm Nailing Party Dressing This Year

If you've been keeping an eye on the new-in sections of your favourite online stores, you'll know that when it comes to party dressing, there is typically a more is more approach. The '80s reigns supreme (particularly when it comes to overstated jewels) and is manifesting in many of the occasion-wear collections dropping right now via thigh-grazing hemlines, oversized bow detailing and velvet fabrications.

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(Image credit: @nlmarilyn)

While these statement-making pieces will certainly pack a punch, for many it's simply not in keeping with their personal style. While I wouldn't consider myself a total minimalist, I do err on the side of simplicity, so over the last month or so, I've been searching for alternative party pieces for those who live by the mantra "less is more" in the wardrobe department.

I decided to create my own spin on party outfits and I didn't want to be too sombre in my approach—party season is nothing but a moment to celebrate, after all—so I've incorporate the odd bit of sparkle and gem adorned shoe. The result is four simple yet chic get-ups that minimalists will happily adorn during the festive season.

1. Leather Bandeau Dress + Metallic Pouch

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(Image credit: Who What Wear)

Style Notes: If you're someone who lives in black, you don't have to sway outside of your personal style for party season. Why not style a skimming leather dress with bold earrings as an easy way to elevate your failsafe colourway. The elevated silhouette and glistening accessories make this look feel festive, plus unlike sequined frocks, you're guaranteed wear out of this dress throughout the year.

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2. Blazer + Lingerie Style Maxi

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(Image credit: Who What Wear)

Style Notes: Lingerie and barely-there dresses are continuing to dominate this party season. If you're unsure how to wear the style, pair it with a slouched blazer, refined footwear and drop studs, for a nod to glamour.

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3. Slouched Knitted Dress + Knee-High Boots

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(Image credit: Who What Wear)

Style Notes: Minimalists who aren't fans of the "all that glitters is gold" approach need not worry because this demonstrates just that. Granted, it's a slightly pared-back approach to party dressing, but there's something about the cut of the style and gold threading that makes it festive. I think it strikes the balance between refinement and seasonal dressing.

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4. Slip Skirt + Ruched Top

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(Image credit: Who What Wear)

Style Notes:  Tonal dressing is both an on-trend and straight-forward way to channel a pared-back party look. A satin slip and ruched top make for an unexpectedly winning pairing. Pile on golden accessories for a statement.

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Freelance Fashion Editor

Avalon Afriyie is a freelance writer and storyteller based in London. She specialises in sustainable fashion, health and the narratives of marginalised communities.

She has a background in fashion show production and styling, having previously worked on The Clothes Show and with the Lyst Group. Since graduating in 2013 with a BA (Hons) in English and contemporary media, she’s worked as a feature writer for an independent publication and a contributor for Quill’s creator network. She now marries her passion for words and style, writing for some of the most esteemed fashion and lifestyle publications, Who What Wear UK and Stylist.

Avalon also provides copywriting services, creative consultancy, and visual media for independent businesses, including travel guides, interviews, press releases and blog posts. Her work has been featured on Lush, Contiki, Youswim and Ohne.

She spends her days writing to her heart’s content for business and pleasure, shooting on film and dreaming of residing a stone’s throw away from the ocean with her love and a pup (clad in a sweeping frock, of course). She’s currently penning ideas for a book of personal essays and free verse poetry on love, life and the stages in between.