Dress to impress…

…without breaking the bank!

11 years ago

Guides

This week, as a well-deserved break from studying, we set ourselves a little shopping challenge to show that you can get the perfect party dresses at prices that won’t break the bank. Stirling hasn’t got the biggest fashion scene in the world, so we took our £30 budgets (which weren’t always stuck to – but when can you treat yourself if not at Christmas?!) to H&M and New Look to put together some ideas for evening attire which are available this party season.

H&M

The LBD is a must have in your wardrobe but why not be a little more adventurous with it? This little black dress with cut out detail around the waist (£19.99) looks great for a night out. Gold statement jewellery is a must this season so why not add this gold statement necklace (£7.99) to make your LBD party ready?
Total: £27.98

This lovely party dress is an absolute steal! At only £14.99 it is an affordable way of looking fabulous in keeping with the velvet trend. The shape of the dress can be very flattering and the royal blue is very festive. Teamed with silver jewellery, such as this statement necklace (£7.99), and black heels this outfit is completely on trend for the Christmas party season
Total: £21.98

This animal print faux fur coat (£14.99) compliments the underwear as outerwear style of this LBD (£19.99), and will keep you cosy on walks home from town! Accessorise this look with some black heels and red lipstick for a classy night time look.
Total: £34.98

This burgundy midi dress (£24.99, also available in royal blue) looks very classy with some black heels to look fabulous on a night out. It can also work as a casual outfit with some boots over the winter period. Give it something extra by adding a statement necklace like this one which is available in gold and silver (£7.99).
Total: £31.98

New Look

A/W 2013 requires tartan; mimicking Chanel it is the focal point of fashion this season. This tartan dress (£26.00) with black leather detail on the collar and sleeves looks great dressed up for a night out by adding some killer heels or even a leather jacket. However, in sticking to budget you gain an excellent outfit to be dressed either up or down.
Total: £26.99

In keeping with the Christmas spirit go all out with the glitter and sparkle. Shake up the classic LBD with this new look alternative (£24.99) with gold glitter to stand out during the festive period. This dress would look great with a chunky heel to give it something extra.
Total: £24.99

To add a splash of colour to your Christmas party wear, be brave and try this red slip dress (£14.99). The leopard print faux fur is over budget (£44.99), but over the last few years it has been a popular piece so there might be one hiding in your wardrobe.
Total: £58.99

Yes, the Gatsby look is still in this season and this sequined number (£27.99) is a perfect example of the trend at an affordable price. To accessorise, add some bronze or gold statement stud earrings and black heels (£24.99) such as these beauties with gold bar detail.
Total: £52.98 (with shoes)

Hopefully this helps with your party dress shopping. Next week we are storming Primark to find the best Christmas jumper!