17.12.2011- Festive Dress Guide Part Three: The Repeat Offender

With only a week to go until Christmas Day, I'm beginning to frantically trawl online shops (I'm looking at you ASOS!) looking for an outfit. However, I'm reluctant to part with my pennies for something which I'll only wear once, a dilemma which has inspired this instalment of my Festive Dress Guide. Featuring a selection of frocks which I've chosen to dub The Repeat Offenders, these are investment buys at their best:

I loved this Designed By Miss Selfridge maxi dress when it landed online about a month or so ago, but it sold out almost instantly. However, I believe it will be making a reappearance on the Miss Selfridge website within the next week or so, so fingers crossed I'll be able to snag it the second time around- I just love everything about it and think it'd be great to have as we move into the spring. The beaded French Connection dress is a beautiful colour and I think it's a really versatile piece- the perfect thing to invest in as a 'go-to' party option. I've also recently discovered Claudie Pierlot's designs for Urban Outfitters, and this space print frock is stunning- a definite keeper. This velvet dress from Boutique by Jaegar has been reduced by almost £100 in their sale, and it's an instant classic which I'm sure would never go out of fashion. Finally, this burgundy design by Dahlia is another really versatile piece which is really wearable, and which would look lovely come rain, snow or sunshine!

Have you got your Christmas outfit planned?

(Image credit: Miss Selfridge, French Connection, Urban Outfitters, Jaegar and Dahlia.)

13.12.11- Festive Dress Guide Part Two: The Christmas Treat

As far as Christmas Day dressing goes, for me comfort is key. I'd happily spend the day in my pyjamas (accessorized with tinsel, of course!), but this probably isn't the most appropriate of outfits when it comes to welcoming the family round- the sight of me in my dressing gown and slippers would be enough to make them run for the hills! The selection of dresses I've chosen for this second instalment of my Festive Dress Guide are perfect for the day itself, combining comfort with a touch of Christmas opulence:

This stunning beaded dress designed by Fearne Cotton for Very is Christmas personified- the deep cranberry colour and glittering details are simply perfect for this time of the year. I love the relaxed shape of this design from New Look, and think it captures a really effortless festive feel. The blush colour is a nice alternative to white, and I like that the embellishments are quite simple too. I adore the deep burgundy shade of this handkerchief hem dress from Dahlia, and think it would also make an amazing transitional piece- perfect for seeing you into the New Year in style. This forest green beauty from Oasis is also another really bold statement frock. The colour isn't something I'd ordinarily plump for, but it immediately makes me feel festive and I love the classic cut. Finally, this velvet halter dress from Topshop is sheer Christmas opulence- although the style is quite tricky to pull off I think it would look lovely if teamed with a few statement accessories. It also really reminds me of a certain purple festive chocolate, which can never be a bad thing!

Have you got a special outfit planned for Christmas Day? And what do you think of my choices?

(Image credit: very.co.uk, New Look, Dahlia, Oasis and Topshop.)