Party season rules

1. Sheer can be classy not trashy — see Thalia Heffernan, right, wearing Natalie B Coleman.

2. If you’re doing shiny, a suit won’t look as Christmas-decoration-ish as a dress, see Doireann Garrihy, below right.

3. Red is a cliche, but nothing beats a bright tomato red at this time of year, even if it’s just a lipstick. Avoid scarlet shades — very 1990s.

4. ‘Floaty with flats’ still works for Christmas parties, again, see Thalia. Our current uniform of a midi dress or maxi dress worn with trainers is essentially the same silhouette. Just go big on your hair and earrings for nights out.

5. If you’re doing sequins, see Joanne Hynes for Dunnes Stores.