From M&S to Zara, the high street is quietly soft-launching festive fashion; these are the styles you don't want to miss
From sophisticated tailoring, affordable earrings, to full-on sparkle, party season is upon us
It feels like autumn has only just begun, but festive fashion is already waiting in the wings. With Christmas party season around the corner, the high street is already soft-launching its style offering, and honestly, buying early is one of my top tips. Our favourite stores are already drip-feeding sequins, gently pushing feathers and adding velvet and faux furs to new-in line-ups, and honestly, it's joyous.
Expect more in the coming weeks, but as the big day draws closer, it's easy to lose yourself to food shops and gift purchasing. Which is why I'm a big advocate for assessing your winter wardrobe now, taking stock of partywear from previous seasons and deciding on what you may want to add.
Of course, you don't need to buy a full new Christmas party look every season. If you have classic pieces from past festivities, you can easily update these with fresh accessories, a pair of shoes that nod to the autumn/winter fashion trends 2026, or some statement jewels, which means that your seasonal outfit doesn't have to break the bank. However, if you are on the hunt for something new, there are lots of lovely options too.
A little bit of added sparkle, this puff sleeve design nods to the autumn/winter fashion trends for 2026, thanks to a sheer fabrication and peplum silhouette that's super flattering.
When it comes to jewellery trends, bigger is still better, especially as we head towards the festive season. A statement earring will sharpen up last year's little black dress instantly.
The John Lewis x Rixo collection is one of this season's biggest and best fashion launches, combining two powerhouses of British fashion. This twinkle print blouse is a versatile staple.
Don't feel the pressure to splash out on a whole new party look every winter. Instead update a timeless look with one of the autumn/winter handbag trends for 2026, this beaded number is a showstopper.
Mint Velvet has quietly launched the start of its festive drop, and these satin barrel legged trousers caught my eye. Burgundy is one of the biggest autumn/winter fashion colour trends for 2026 and pairs well with metallics or black.
I've just nabbed a pair of these, and let me tell you, from the get-go, they've been some of the comfiest fancy flats I've owned. The foiled metallic finish takes these effortlessly from AM to PM.
Velvet is always a festive favourite, but last year the fabric really found itself front and centre of winter fashion. It's going to continue to be a big hit this season, and this flattering A-line, empire dress will fit and flatter curves with ease.
A little off the shoulder, I love that this autumn-hued top uses a brooch-like detail to create very expensive-looking drape, and all for under £30. Wear it from the office to festive drinks; it will work with tailored neutrals or even denim.
Sequin skirts are one of my favourite ways to add a little winter sparkle to my wardrobe. Dress down with your best cashmere sweater, or lean in with a silkier top for a more dressed-up finish. The Massimo Dutti new-in collection looks so expensive, and this skirt fits that bill.
The shoe trends are being dominated by kitten heels and slingbacks, and this timeless gold shoe with retro styling nods to both of these styles. Pair with everything from skirts and dresses to jeans or tailoring.
From mid-November to December, expect to see me in more sparkle than usual, and a metallic dress is a great way to up the seasonal cheer. This silver design features statement ruffles for a full party-ready look.
Accessories are the simplest way to update a look, and a bold pair of earrings will make simple shirts and trousers, or jeans and a stylish top, feel more put together. This gold and emerald design looks far more expensive than the price tag.
We're all guilty of putting together a great festive look and then forgetting to sort out what goes on top. A smart coat might not be your everyday choice, but having something equally stylish to your ensemble underneath ensures you're event-ready.
Polka dots, bows, and sheer fabric - there's a lot going on here, but it works. For just £45, this stylish slingback will make jeans, dresses or tailored outfits feel a little more joyous.
This British clothing brand makes some of the best trousers, and this 'luxe man pant' takes classic, androgynous tailoring and reworks it for the female form. The wide-leg is so flattering for waists, hips and thighs.
You might think of Rixo for its pretty printed dresses, but don't snooze on the brand's stellar coat collection this season. Faux furs are a particular highlight and I love the vintage aesthetic of this design.
A twist front flatters midriffs, waists and hips, while the bronzed fabric adds a luxurious finish to this style steal of a dress. Pair with strappy heels and a faux fur jacket for ultimate glam.
An embellished knit is something I find hard to resist, and I love this sweet cardigan that will slip easily over camis, shirts, or buttons to create a top. Use it to up-style jeans or team it with similarly sparkly pieces.
The coordinating skirt offers a high-end look at a fraction of the price. The form-fitted design is the perfect partner to strappy heels for the evening, or try it with slim-fit boots for dressy day attire.
This boot is one of the brand's most loved; the streamlined silhouette adds a polished finish to the design that will add a laidback feel to dresses and skirts.
There is something undeniably sexy about this bronze velvet tie-front jacket. Echoing tuxedo style, 'le smoking' jackets, and finished with a rather glam belt, this is such an elevated Christmas season look that will work beautifully for black tie, too.
A soft, wide-leg velvet pant, these trousers feature Amanda Wakeley's signature side stripe, elongating your leg and adding a fashion-forward twist to this festive favourite. Pair with the matching jacket, team it with a knit, or something silky. It's versatile elegance.
I must admit, anything embellished, sparkly or feathered you can usually count me in, and this striking brocade top ticks those boxes. With matching trousers (complete with a feathered hem), this statement top can be worn as part of a co-ord or paired with jeans or a skirt for a vintage, party-ready look.
I'm a long-term fan of Vivaia sneakerinas, so I'm excited to see this addition to the brand's offering. Give your Vivaia shoes a little festive makeover with satin laces and clip-on charms; there are plenty of styles to choose from, and they can take your flats from practical to fancy in a flash.
