23 Especially Cool Party Pieces Women Over 40 Swear By

"I love wearing sequins for Christmas parties—there is no better time than Christmas to go crazy with sparkles! One of my favorite combos is a unique sequinned top paired with high-waisted leather pants. To balance this kind of outfit, I like to add delicate black sandals and a simple bag."

"Another chic option for holiday parties is a colorful sequinned skirt worn with a blazer belted at the waist. Sequins don't need a lot of accessories, so I always keep those simple."

"A one-shoulder velvet top paired with tapered trousers is another perfect option for Christmas parties. I'll combine this outfit with rhinestone jewelry—large earrings, a large brooch, or belt—and finish the look with delicate, simple heels."

"One more festive alternative would be a velvet suit worn with sparkly accessories. Don't be afraid of accessories—a simple velvet suit looks amazing when accessorized with rhinestones and statement jewelry."

"I love a red dress! Sure, a little black dress will serve you year-round, but for the holiday, I'm looking to get in the spirit with a festive red hue instead."

"This festive season, I'll be opting for embellished blouses as a chic alternative to my party dresses. This mirrored button-down pairs very well under a masculine suit to bring some sparkle and shine to my ensemble. It's also perfect for elevating my staple jeans for more casual affairs."

"I'm a fan of sequins any time of year—especially those that can easily go from work to a party or happy hour. Something like a sequinned turtleneck can be layered if you don't feel comfortable wearing full-on sequins during the day. I layer this one under loose sweaters or silk camisoles."

"I'm always up for the challenge to look fun and festive but also stay warm. A statement sweater with either cutouts, beading, or feathers is the perfect piece that adds fun and a whimsical feel to your look while still keeping you toasty. I love the color of this Cinq à Sept sweater. It looks great with jeans or a leather skirt and heels."

"When it comes to party pieces, I always swear by a little bling and shine—especially for evening wear—sparkly jewelry is so elegant for parties. I'm all for the glamor on these occasions!"

"This holiday season, I'm also really into corsets and bustiers worn as tops under a blazer. So pretty."

"Fun, head-turning prints boost my holiday spirits. I'd be the life in the party in this or any of these pretty pieces below."

"While everyone stresses about which dress to wear, I tend to focus on what to wear over it because I hate being cold. I love a sparkly festive topper that will keep me warm and chic like this sequinned blazer."

A sleek one-and-done jumpsuit for the win.

Sparkly sequins are trending hard for spring 2020.

Pleated, flowy black trousers will be the staple party piece you'll rely on time and time again.

A silky blouse will take you from day-to-night with ease.

Never underestimate the power of an LBD.