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Christmas party season is back and it’s going to be bigger than ever. From the coolest cocktails to desk-to-dancefloor style, Hannah Britt asks the experts for their top tips

Hold on to your sequins… Christmas party season is back and after last year’s festivities were cancelled because of Covid, this year is shaping up to be bigger and better than ever.

And our experts are here to help, whether you’re hosting at home or planning a night out on the town.

From creating the coolest cocktails, to foolproof make-up that will shine on the dancefloor all night long, they share their ultimate guide to the best party season ever.

THE FASHION Timeless classic

“The ultimate fail-safe Christmas party look is the little black dress,” says stylist Antonia Kraskowski (antoniakraskowski.com).

“Chic and timeless, it’s a great investment – wear it year after year and update it with on-trend accessories such as new heels or a sparkly bag.”

Just add sparkle

Accessories make maximum impact with minimum effort.

“Dig out your favourite glitzy heels, invest in a jazzy new clutch bag and think big when it comes to jewellery – cocktail rings and chandelier earrings are a great way to get into the party spirit,” says Antonia.

Party feet

“New pair of party shoes? Wear them around the house to break them in,” says fashion editor Emma Johnson.

“When it’s party time, keep feet comfortable by popping Scholl Party Feet, £5.50 (Boots), in your shoes. Pack a couple of plasters in your handbag too, just in case.”

THE MAKE-UP Paint it red

“A red lipstick will achieve a striking look in seconds,” says make-up artist Tamara Tott (tamaratott.com). “This season is all about the 1990s, so go for darker burgundy, almost brown-red tones.” Try Rimmel Lasting Finish Matte Lipstick in Hollywood Red, £6 (Boots).

Go go glitter

For drama, apply Stila Glitter & Glow Liquid Eyeshadow, £24 ( feelunique. com), to the whole eyelid. Or try a pop of sparkle in the centre, applied with a finger tip. Go for NYX

Metallic Glitter in

Beauty Beam, £7 (cultbeauty.co.uk). “Use sellotape to gently remove any excess,” says make-up artist Anna Gibson (annagibsonmakeup.com).

Shine on

Don’t forget your body, says Anna.

“Get an A-list glow by applying a rich moisturiser then a sweep of iridescent highlighter powder, such as Mac Mineralise Skin Finish, £27 (maccosmetics.co.uk), to the shins, arms and decolletage.”

THE HAIR Try something new

“Push the boat out and try something new,” says Tim Scott-wright at The Hair Surgery (timscottwright.co.uk).

“For short hair, the wet look is super chic and bold. For longer hair, why not try a glam 1970s-inspired blow dry with lots of volume and face-framing flicks.”