As Christmas events, winter weddings, festive drinks, dinner parties, and glitzy nights out begin to rapidly fill our calendars for the coming months, thoughts naturally turn to what to wear. But tempting as it may be to fill your wardrobe with all manner of sparkly new party pieces for the occasion, I'm here to suggest a far more sensible—not to mention, sustainable—approach.
That is: sidestep the one-season-wonder party dresses, and instead turn your focus to shoes. Now, admittedly, I am something of a footwear obsessive myself, so dressing from the feet-up has always been my modus operandi—but I find it to be a particularly effective hack at this time of year. Allow me to explain why.
First up, a fabulous pair of party shoes can elevate an otherwise-dull—or purposefully pared-back—look like nothing else. Take the classic LBD, for example: alone, it makes for a rather unimaginative outfit, but paired with some seriously sparkly shoes, it's nothing short of inspired. Ditto a tailored suit, or even jeans and a simple top, that suddenly go from everyday to elegant when worn with the right pair of shoes. There's something wonderfully nonchalant, and effortlessly cool, about going low-key with your clothing but ramping up the glamour with your footwear, too.
Second: if you're going to a party, and plan to not only stay comfortably on your feet all night, but actually dance, then arguably your choice of shoes is going to be the clincher. In this case, you'll want to go for high-quality, well-made heels that you know won't rub, or one of the many high-octane flats and pumps that have flooded the market of late—and are every bit as statement-making.
If you do go for heels, you—and your chosen outfit—will benefit from the added elevation, too. Don't underestimate the power of a little extra height for looking poised, polished and chic (not to mention keeping any maxi styles from dragging along the floor).
And finally, if you invest well, a great party shoe will see you through many a festive season in style, as well as working for countless other occasions throughout the year. Cost-per-wear-wise, that's a far smarter investment than a standout dress in my opinion, that you'll likely only wear a handful of times, before retiring it forever. No one is going to pull you up on wearing the same (epic) shoes to back-to-back events, after all.
So, this is your PSA to skip the panic-shopping, make do with the clothes already in your wardrobe, and simply style them up with a fresh new pair of fabulous party shoes instead. Below, my top picks from luxury brands, the high street and independent designers alike.
Shop the Best Party Shoes of 2025
Beaded ankle fringing brings the party vibes to a classic pair of black strappy sandals, courtesy of 16Arlington for M&S.
Who cares about the outfit when you have these epic heels sparkling away on your feet?
These crystal-embellished mesh flats will make your toes twinkle as they (comfortably) dance the night away.
These peachy-pink satin feather stilettos will work just as well with a pair of cropped jeans and a t-shirt, as they will with a smart dress for a winter wedding.
A glossy red shoe is a little more subtle, but makes a bold statement nonetheless. The wedge heels will help with comfort, without compromising on height, either.
The independent British footwear brand Florrie London is a fashion insider favourite thanks to its chic, modern designs and luxurious construction. These green satin and diamanté-embellished mules are perfect for this time of year—and beyond.
Nothing says Christmas party like a pair of red velvet bow-topped heels, and this H&M style is a steal at less than £30.
Sparkles, bows and festive colours aren't the only options for party shoes... These animal-print calf-hair slingbacks would be just as striking, and would get endless use throughout the year, too.
Mango's latest party collection was designed in collaboration with Kaia Gerber, and includes these excellent metal toe heels that are giving Saint Laurent but for much less.
Hands-down the coolest shoes of the season, Saint Laurent's super-pointy slingbacks are on every stylish woman's wishlist right now.
These metallic gold mules sell out every season for a reason. Comfortable, chic and effortlessly impactful.
Flats don't get much more party-ready than Jimmy Choo's new silver glitter ballerinas embellished with pretty pink bows.
Malone Souliers is known to make some of the most comfortable heels out there, and this new Winter 2025 design would look great pointing out from beneath a smart black tux or evening gown alike.
These silver knee-high boots provide an alternative—but just as stylish—take on party shoes, and would pair especially well with sheer tights and a simple LBD.
This burgundy and mini-crystals update on Gucci's signature logo slingbacks is perfect for this time of year.
I own these heels, and can personally attest to the fact that they're surprisingly comfortable and win me compliments every single time I take them out.
If you've been eyeing Alaïa's cult crystal flats for a while now, this might just be the perfect time to take the plunge. You'll be able to wear them during the day with jeans, as well as by night with tights.
