Photo from Grazia magazine. Model, Anna K

I’ve been to my first party since lockdown. Having completely forgotten how to apply make-up, I got ready in a last-minute rush but at least I didn’t resort to flossing my teeth on the train, like the man sitting in the same carriage. Good to see that the pandemic has had a long-lasting affect on hygiene in public places.

Anyhow. Let’s not dwell on that unsavoury image. Being party-ready doesn’t have to be a palaver. In a flash, I’d pulled on a vintage Lurex top and a pair of go-everywhere black trousers and popped a pair of gold slingbacks into a canvas tote bag.

Casual glamour is the name of this party game.

Often a black backdrop with a sprinkling of bling is all you need. I love texture, embellishment and sparkle as much as the next woman but it has to be tempered with faff-free, streamlined basics. What I want is an outfit that says party elegance not pantomime dame (as in this photo from Grazia magazine. Wish I’d drunk a pint of water before bedtime).

And if, like me, you prefer less-is-more make-up, shoulder-scraping, statement earrings provide enough of a distraction.

There’s really no need to buy a load of new glad rags this party season. Not when you can pull something from your back catalogue. A much-loved tuxedo jacket, timeless black dress or silk blouse can be glammed up with ease. Pin a cluster of brooches on a sturdy lapel, add a pair of show-stopper earrings to rev up a velvet top.

Bring on the statement necklace to upgrade a simple neckline. Make the most of cocktail loafers, decorative flats (check out the gold tweed ballerinas from LK Bennett), metallic brogues and velvet slippers (I do like these Mary Janes from Sam Edelman). Perfect with jeans and a party top – so that you feel liberated, footloose and faff-free.

Dressing for comfort with a sprinkling of glitz and glamour is the best way to whoop up those forgotten favourites.

Here’s a selection of dazzling shoes and accessories to make a party outfit pop:

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