There’s something for everyone – here are my current favourites
With Christmas invitations starting to stack up, I’ve been keeping my eye out for festive outfits for quite some time. I may be a fashion writer, but I’m also someone who loves to find pieces that feel special without straining the budget, and one of my favourite – but often overlooked – places to find garments and accessories is Amazon. I’ve selected four stand-out items from the online marketplace, and they’re all ideal for the run-up to party season.
First up is this glamorous, glittery cocktail dress in a deep yuletide red, which costs £35.99. I particularly love the bow tie ribbon belt, adding an extra festive touch while allowing the waist to be cinched into a more flattering silhouette. It comes in sizes S to XXL along with several other colours, with the glittery finish available in black, green, navy, and champagne.
For shoppers preferring an understated look, there are less dazzling versions of the dress for sale, including this plain black evening dress that’s a little cheaper at £29.99. When I’m adding to my wardrobe, I often prefer to choose more versatile pieces – and this chic dress should prove handy for many occasions outside the Christmas period.
Of course, any party goer needs something to carry personal items like a purse, phone, cosmetics – or even a brolly for the unpredictable UK weather. This rhinestone evening bag for £25.99 is an affordable and glitzy take on the Jimmy Choo Bon Bon bag, and I think it’s perfectly in line with the magic and sparkle of Christmas time.
This sizable bag is bucket-shaped and can fit rather a lot inside, and it also comes with an adjustable metal chain so it can be carried or worn on the shoulder. Colours include black, blue, gold, red, and silver, but all will certainly catch eyes, no matter the outfit.
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£11.99
Amazon
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There are other colours available, too
If rhinestones are a little too much, this black sequin-covered bucket bag is a great alternative for £11.99. It shimmers beautifully in the light, and I particularly like its pearl detailing on the drawstring.
While Amazon is a reliable place to pick up stylish bargains, there’s plenty more available around the web. Christmas time often calls for plush, luxurious textures, and for dressy occasions, I love to go with velvet. This Saint Tropez velvet v-neck cocktail dress from Debenhams is perfect for the season. With an above-the-knee slim fit and ruched front, it’s sure to turn heads at Christmas dos or family gatherings – and it’s currently £30, down from £59.99.
Continuing the decadent look is this gold weave grab handle clutch bag from Next for £38. It works well as a statement piece, so I’d likely pair it with a simpler outfit to let its luxe, tactile texture shine.
Shoppers, however, are big fans of the Amazon products. One bought the glitter cocktail dress and left a review, saying: “Beautiful dress! It’s got great structure. Looks very well made. Fits beautifully. Honestly looks a lot more expensive than it is. Love the length. Perfect for an evening out!”
Another bought it in black and said: “Dress is great value, looks really lovely on. Slightly tight as it’s fitted. The fabric is lovely, bought it for my granddaughter’s graduation, will match it up with a lightweight jacket.”
As for the rhinestone bag, that’s gone down a treat too. One shopper commented: “Super sparkly, and surprisingly roomy.” Another opted for the sequin bag, saying: “Was really surprised, this little bag is certainly value for money. Looks beautiful and appears to be made well. It is small, but then it is an evening bag. I love it!”
One customer did leave feedback on the cocktail dress, mentioning sizing. They said: “Lovely dress. I bought my size and it was snug. I returned it and bought the next size up, but in all honesty there wasn’t much difference in them. Very fitted at the top.”
Another reviewed the rhinestone bag, commenting on its size: “Love the look and quality of purse, except it doesn’t hold my cell phone with my OtterBox cover!”
