TIME FOR A TOUCH OF CLASS!

High-tech designs mean party fabrics such as velvet, silk, fake fur and feathers have never felt so good

What is it about New Year’s Eve that seems to throw so many of us into a blind fashion panic?

For 364 days of the year we stick to our own personal styles, developed through years of trial and, yes, some degree of error.

But for this one evening of the year, many of us completely ignore the rules and instead choose outfits that are too short, too clingy or disastrously low cut.

Worst of all, they are clothes that then sit in our cupboards, unworn and unloved, all year long.

What seemed glamorous in the shop’s changing room can look very much the wrong side of trashy under that flashing disco ball.

But there is an easy way to choose simple and stylish party pieces that will not only look glamorous on New Year’s Eve, but can form the basis of your whole 2018 wardrobe, too: opt for tiny sequins, fluffy, colourful faux fur or glamorous velvet paired with sparkly accessories.

the luxurious, textured fabrics mean you can stick to a demure and comfortable cut and still look like the belle of the ball — then seamlessly transition into January, matching these statement pieces with more casual shoes and accessories for the school run, a meeting at the office or a girls’ night out.

the craze for these sumptuous materials is only going to grow in 2018, and high Street shops are awash with brilliant options.

Clever new technology has transformed textures we would once have avoided for being too heavy and bulky, such as velvet and satin, into flattering fabrics that are light as a feather, machine-washable and crease-proof.

So iNStEad of hanging in thick folds, they cling to the body and move with you, which looks far more elegant than a wall of stiff, creased fabric.

Plus they’re so versatile and easy to care for that you can wear them again and again without worrying about a huge dry cleaning bill.

if you are feeling really bold, take a leaf from the fashion editors’ book and throw together a mish-mash of textures. try wearing a cosy jumper with a shiny metallic skirt, or sling a faux fur over a slinky silk dress or leather trousers.

a good rule of thumb is to mix something high-shine with a matte texture.

the other great advantage is that many of these new fabrics look far more expensive than the price you’ll be paying. a silkstyle shirt can now look as good as the real thing — but for a fifth of the price.

here’s our pick of the best textures for your New Year’s party this weekend — and every day next year . . .