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.

@dinahansen

(Image credit: @dinahansen)

Dina keeps things simple, pairing her sequin bandeau with a pair of classic tailored trousers and minimalist jewellery.

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 five simple yet chic get-ups that minimalists will happily adorn during the festive season.

5 Minimalist Party Outfits for 2024:

1. Jumper + Sequin Mini + Metallic Bag

@ingridedvinsen

(Image credit: @ingridedvinsen)

Style Notes: A sequin skirt is party season staple, but might initially seem intimidating to minimalists. To make it more wearable, opt for a neutral colour and a more relaxed knit like Ingrid has.

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2. Blazer + Tailored Trousers + Statement Earrings

@daniellejinadu

(Image credit: @daniellejinadu)

Style Notes: Tailoring is practically a uniform for us minimalists and you definitely don't have to pack your away for party season. Simply let your accessories do the talking to dress up the look and add a small heel to keep hems skimming on the floor.

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3. Slip Dress + Shoulder Bag + Kitten Heels

@kristincabat

(Image credit: @kristincabat)

Style Notes: Elegant and timeless, a satin slip dress is a great choice for those looking for a party outfit but prefers to stay away from sparkles and sequins. The dress is already formal enough, but a slingback heel will really take things to the next level.

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4. Blouse + Jeans + Slingbacks

@symphonyofsilk

(Image credit: @symphonyofsilk)

Style Notes: If you're looking for an outfit for more casual festive occasion, don't feel like you need to shy away from denim. The jeans-and-a-nice-top combo is a failproof formula, just go for a extra fancy top for a Christmas party like Lorna has.

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5. Mini Dress + Tights + Statement Heels

@nlmarilyn

(Image credit: @nlmarilyn)

Style Notes: A great LBD can be worn no matter the occasion, and opting for one similar to Marilyn's means you can invest in style that can easily be dressed up with a statement heel for an event and then worn with boots or loafers long after party season.

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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.

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