Christmas fashion: sequins and sparkles

One of the best things about Christmas is the frivolous fun of getting all dressed up, a time when sparkle and shine and maybe a little bit of extravagance suit the seasonal mood of festive cheer.

So have a fling with bling, we say, and on with the party. It’s time to have fun, be a Venus in furs, a vamp in black lace or rock the baroque. Toe the line with sexpot shoes, gild the eyes and make hair an affair to remember. You only get one chance a year.

Shot in the beautiful grounds of the Powerscourt Hotel Resort & Spa in Enniskerry, Co Wicklow and styled by Catherine Condell, the clothes for this special fashion feature are rich, lavish and embellished with a certain nocturnal flash and shimmer (sequins, brocades, metallics), but topped with informal belted cardigans and shaggy cover-ups and the look is that of someone coming from the best party in town and maybe feeling the shiver of winter. Luxe layering is key.

The frocks are fabulous, the fur is fake and the jewellery, like the clothes, is a pic ’n’ mix of the ultra luxurious and bespoke, with dazzling diamond rings and bracelets from Boodles .

A handmade red feather dress from Umit Kutluk, an easygoing black and midnight blue brocade skirt from Coast and a sparkly crop jacket from Divine highlight the mix of high end and high street, including some pieces from Irish boutiques.

Sling on a fluffy fur and long leather gloves for an instant glamour fix and you’re ready to wow – and warm.