How to ‘wear’ Christmas part 1.

This season is customarily associated with velvet, sequins, satin and tulle; in black, red, gold, silver or green. Potentially uncomfortable AND a visual eyesore? Surely there has to be a better way? And there is, do not despair.

I did a workshop/talk on this exact subject online at work the other day. And this is what I said. More or less.

Starting with sequins: the most important thing about sequins is that they are not just for Christmas. If you have some you should wear them all year round. Apart from maybe January when they look a little bit like sad Christmas decorations. But apart from that ALL YEAR.

This is one of my favourite jackets. I wear it all the time and I love it. It’s falling apart but that just adds to its charm.

Here I have it with my faux leather joggers. I would hesitate wearing it with a LBD for example as ‘too expected for Christmas’.

The downside of sequins is that they are an eco-disaster so a) try and recycle and re-wear what you already own or b) go second hand or c) if you’re handy in a clothes-making way you can buy biodegradable ones and embellish your own clothing. Or d) shop somewhere like Free People who surely MUST have sustainably sourced ones. Because if they don’t there is no hope for any of us.

Gentlemen – do not be afraid of a sequin. A light scarf can fix an otherwise drab outfit. My boyfriend, who’s not a sequin kind of a guy, rocked a silver one I have to a party where a last-minute dress code was ‘sparkles’, with a denim shirt and jeans. Or consider them on a jacket lapel or down the side of a trouser like a dress suit. But probably stick to colours such as black or navy.

And I think that goes for all. Red sequins should be worn with caution, likewise green I think as it goes all a bit Christmas bauble. The alternative point of view is that this is also very Christmas spirit if that’s your intention. They can look quite cheap, but ditto on the above if you fancy that look.

 I always love contrast in textures. A sequin skirt looks excellent with jumpers - cashmere, a fine or chunky knit or a sweatshirt. A jacket with a t-shirt or a crisp white shirt and jeans or joggers. I do have some sequin trousers I found, as seen on the title picture. I put them with a tux jacket and ankle boots but, having re-discovered them I might try them with an oversized jumper or sweatshirt and high-tops. A note of caution however, sequins on the bottom half can be uncomfortable after any length of time. And tend to catch on things, so watch those jumpers.

Coming up next; velvet. If sequins are the frothy prince of Christmas fabrics, then surely velvet is The Queen..?