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    Andrea's It List: The Perfect Low-Effort Party Attire

    Invest in quality pieces that you'll wear for years to come

    Andrea Thompson's avatar
    By Andrea Thompson
    Published 22 November 2025 In Features

    When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here’s how it works.

    Andrea's It List logo
    (Image credit: Future / Noorunisa / Morgan Maurice / Romina Introini)
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    The below is from editor-in-chief Andrea Thompson's weekly newsletter, Andrea's It-List. Subscribe here.

    It's party dress season again. If you're anything like me, you're probably wondering where the year has gone and experiencing mild waves of anxiety at the thought of everything that needs to be done before Christmas.

    As well as a busy work schedule, I also have 6 events to plan outfits for pre Christmas - from black tie award dinners and work events to Christmas nights out with girlfriends and a trip to the ballet. It's this time of year that panic buying an outfit last minute is so tempting, but if you take time to shop around, choose wisely and invest in good quality pieces like these ones, you'll be wearing them for many years to come.

    SHOP MY TOP PICKS

    Black Tie Maxi Dress

    Black Tie Maxi Dress
    £350 AT ME+EM

    If you're looking for versatility, the bias cut satin maxi is unbeatable for evening events. Style this flattering version from ME+EM with a blazer for work too.

    Isabel Marant Heliane Sequined Minidress

    Isabel Marant Heliane Sequined Minidress
    £890 AT MYTHERESA

    It's rare to find a sequin mini with sleeves, which instantly elevates this A-line version from Isabel Marant and prepare to be complimented all evening.

    Petite Atelier Single-Breasted Tuxedo Blazer

    Petite Atelier Single-Breasted Tuxedo Blazer
    £280 AT REISS

    There's something so effortlessly stylish about a tux for a cocktail event. I wear mine all year. This exquisite one by Reiss features an expertly tailored single breasted satin trimmed blazer and flatteringly cut wide leg trousers. Invest in the waistcoat too and mix and match with multiple pieces in your wardrobe.

    Rebecca Vallance Dreams Cloqué Mini Dress

    Rebecca Vallance Dreams Cloqué Mini Dress
    £650 AT NET-A-PORTER

    This cute fit and flare mini from Rebecca Vallance is another wardrobe staple you can style up with heels or down with boots for a variety of evening events.

    RO&ZO Seraphina Puff-Sleeve Woven Maxi Dress

    RO&ZO Seraphina Puff-Sleeve Woven Maxi Dress
    £169 AT SELFRIDGES

    I can't resist a puff sleeve which instantly adds drama. I'm currently eyeing this Seraphina gold gown, which features a beautiful bow at the back and elegant waistline.

    Black Velvet & Satin Mix Lola Midi Dress

    Black Velvet & Satin Mix Lola Midi Dress
    £130 AT NOBODY'S CHILD

    There's so much to love about this black midi by Nobody's child which combines intricate ruffle velvet detail on top, a flattering V-back and floaty satin. A great price too.

    HIGHLIGHT OF THE WEEK

    Midi skirt with sequins

    Midi Skirt with Sequins
    £129 AT MASSIMO DUTTI

    The easiest way to add some Christmas spirit is by wearing some sparkles. Invest in a quality glittering piece and you'll be wearing it every Christmas, New Year and party night for years to come. Whether you're drawn to shorts, skirts, or dresses, there's something to suit, and lift, every mood in our comprehensive edit right now over on Marie Claire including this stylish green midi by Massimo Dutti. 

    A montage of images of Andrea Thompson, Marie Claire's Editor in Chief and the words 'Andrea's It-List' to advertise her new column

    (Image credit: Future)
    Marie Claire Newsletter

    Celebrity news, beauty, fashion advice, and fascinating features, delivered straight to your inbox!

    By submitting your information you agree to the Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over.
    Andrea Thompson
    Andrea Thompson
    Editor in Chief

    Andrea Thompson is Editor in Chief at Marie Claire UK and was named by We are the City as one of the UKs top 50 trailblazers for her work championing gender equality. She sits on the committee of the British Society of Magazine Editors where she acts as Chair.

    Andrea has worked as a senior journalist for a range of publications over her 20 year career including The Sunday Times, The Guardian, The Daily Mail, Channel 4, Glamour and Grazia. At Marie Claire UK, Andrea oversees content, strategy, events and campaigns across fashion, beauty and the brand's purpose pillars. Follow her on instagram at @andreacanwrite

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