It’s party season, so time to rock some on-trend lace, maybe show a little flesh with see-through panelling or sheer, or just invest in a ‘wow’ piece of jewellery.

Fashion columnist Paula Fry says ...

Are you party season-ready yet? Some of you might have already found the perfect go-to outfit that will see you through dinner parties, office parties or family gatherings, but what is on trend in the world of glitter and frills?

It’s all about the lace, girls. I am so in love with all the lace dresses and blouses and glad to see that they are on going to be bang on trend for Spring/Summer 2016 too. Smart, sophisticated and a great cover up while still showing a little flesh, lace is your friend. If you don’t want to do the whole dress, buy co-ordinating pieces (skirt with matching top in the same colour/fabric) and then you can mix and match.

A lace skirt with a plain silk blouse or cami top just needs a ‘wow’ necklace and you’re Christmas ready.

You’ll get more bang for your buck if you then dress the skirt down with a big knit or cashmere sweater for a more casual affair – it’s all about wearability!

For an ultra on-trend look, take a look at Self Portrait (http://www.self-portrait-studio.com). The dresses on this site are divine and for a special occasion aren’t over the top on pricing compared to their peers. Not for the faint hearted, however, the dresses have see-through panelling, lace inserts and laser-cut work.

Sheer is here to stay. If you’re nervous of having too much flesh on show, just add a black, white or nude slip or camisole as an under garment. Make sure they are fitted so they don’t bunch up, which can create bulk and ruin the whole look.

Already have the perfect dress but fancy a change? Why don’t you invest in some sparkle to wear with it instead of buying something new? The collar necklace can change an outfit instantly.

My favourite still is Accessorize but Marks and Spencer, Next and Fenwick all have some great pieces from only £10.

Merry Christmas

Ed’s note: After many years sterling service as our fashion guru, columnist Paula Fry is handing over the baton to Tunbridge Wells yummy mummy, stylist Victoria Genevieve @wardrobefairy. Look out for and interview with Victoria and her first column in our January edition.