IF there is one fundamental misconception at this time of year, it is the idea that we must all invest in extensive additions to our wardrobes, with a new outfit being purchased for every fresh social occasion. The height of the annual party season comes during these few weeks at the close of the year and given that the same people are liable to encounter one another repeatedly, our desire to look different each time is understandable. But achieving this ought and need not mean a radical and expensive change of appearance. If the basics are right, everything else will fall into place.
The most common of all errors is to invest in a number of different items which can only be worn at parties. Such dresses are seen perhaps no more than once or twice over 12 months and represent an astonishingly poor return on their outlay. Don't fall into the trap of imagining that because your circle of friends has already seen a particular ensemble, it cannot be produced again within living memory. The best clothes will merit repeated wearings by being sufficiently low key that they are outside any particular moment.
That's certainly true of the dress shown here. It has all the right attributes of the current season, but will still look just as good throughout the spring. To begin with, the colour is absolutely right chocolate brown has been autumn/winter 1996's most popular shade and by wearing a dress like this, you'll fully demonstrate your fashion credibility. In addition, it's velvet, again very much the favourite fabric right now and one which instantaneously suggests convivial times. The cut is perfectly simple, following the line of the body without clinging in a potentially unflattering way. The long sleeves and polo neck are also kind to women who may not wish to reveal too much of themselves. The price, as something which has the potential for repeated use during the year ahead, represents a sound investment. And, for a refreshing change, it quite obviously is not that style safety net the little black dress.
But best of all, here is a dress sufficiently understated that it can be accessorised in an infinite variety of ways according to your mood and circumstances. You can opt for a casual, almost sporty approach by teaming it with a little sweater, or give yourself an attention grabbing boost courtesy of bold jewellery and an enormous (and fake) fur coat. Either way, this dress will work perfectly, adapting itself to meet your requirements. Add or subtract as you will, but always remember that the greatest impact may be achieved by what seems to be minimal means. Chanel once suggested women should look at themselves just before they left their homes and remove one item. It remains sound advice. This Christmas, make sure it's you and not the lavishness of your clothes which leaves the lasting impression.
