Party Season Is Coming – And JLo And Co Have All The Inspiration You Need

Step away from the sensible layers, wave goodbye to early nights and stock up on Compeeds - party season is coming.

Six weeks of cocktails, canapés and control pants can wreak havoc on the style sensibilities of even the most sartorially self-assured. There is a stiletto-fine line between glamour and gaudiness, and non-stop nights out fueled by gallons of festive ebullience tend to blur it.

So, if you're already wondering how to do party season the right way, look to the place that has eveningwear in its DNA: Hollywood. This month's Governor's Awards and Hollywood Film Awards didn't just offer a tantalizing teaser of things to come this awards season, but a masterclass in out-out dressing. Watch and learn.

Wear the new black

Fashion fact: you can never go wrong with an LBD. Keep it classic, like Renee in A.W.A.K.E. Mode, or, if you're feeling bold, amp up the sexiness by opting for a sheer style like Kate Mara at the Governors Awards - just make sure your best bra isn't in the wash.

Try maximal minimalism

Simple does not always mean plain. Freeze the froufrou; pared-back looks have extra oomph in punchy shades and unexpected silhouettes. Side note: Charlize Theron proves that a T-shirt, admittedly hers is a luxe Tom Ford one) is now after-dark approved.

Rock sparkles and shine

Come on, if you can't do sequins now, when can you? The takeaway from LA: it's time to go all-out in high-voltage sparkles. Top off your look with a bow, like Gugu Mbatha-Raw in spangled Dolce & Gabbana.

Discover purple power

They do say purple Quality Street is everyone's favourite. Less obvious than red, indigo is equally opulent. Running the gamut from sweet lilac to regal amethyst, there's a purple to suit every skin tone.

Ditch the dress

Not a dress girl? Dakota Johnson proves that a jumpsuit can still give a gown a run for its money in the look-at-me-stakes.

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