If, like me, you’ve been thinking about what to wear for party season as soon as summer called it quits, you’ll want to get yourself to H&M.
Whether it’s the questionable office Christmas party, a get-together with friends in your hometown (in that pub you all used to go to when you were 16 18), or the actual Big Day itself, if you’re anything like me, part of the whole fun of it is dressing up. More is more at this time of year – I want sequins, I want silky dresses, and I want metallic heels – and everyone’s favourite high-street hero, H&M, has a new-in section worth perusing.
From stand-out two-pieces to festive (but not gaudy) jumpers via literal ballgowns, the H&M Holiday 2024 collection is the best we’ve seen on the high street so far this season. There’s a glorious bead-embellished cream-coloured co-ord, with flattering slim-fit, wide-leg trousers and a high-neck, longline top that would look perfect with a festive red lip and glittery silver eyeshadow. Or, speaking of co-ords, there’s a delicious fringed two-piece that is sure to sell out quicker than you can say ‘best dressed at the office Christmas ’do’.
Short on time? I browsed the H&M new arrivals in store so you don’t have to. Below are the best party pieces I tried on…
The Beaded Two-Piece:
This two-piece feels and looks way more luxe than its high-street label. I love the top, with its chic stand colour and twill material, paired with the matching trousers, but it would also look great with your favourite faux leather trousers or to dress up a pair of jeans.
The “Festive” Jumper:
If you prefer something a little more casual but still with a touch of sparkle, this sequin-adorned jumper in a bright festive red will do the trick. Go tonal with matching red trousers or keep it low-key with high-waist wide-leg jeans like I did. It comes up slightly oversized so if you like the looser look, take your regular size, or size down if you’d like it a little more fitted.
The Jacquard Mini:
Easily my favourite dress I’ve tried on recently, this jacquard weave dress in a deliciously shiny fabric will work for just about any festive ‘do in my calendar (and I’m totally saving it for my hen do next summer!) I particularly love the slightly boxy, puffy sleeves. Unsurprisingly, it’s currently sold out in the cream shade (make sure to sign up for back in stock notifications!), but it’s also available in black too.
The Satin Party Dress:
Now this is what I call a party dress! I love the dusky pink colour and the sturdy, lustrous satin material gives the dress shape and support (and looks super high quality). The decorative pleats are wide flare add extra oomph – and it even has secret side pockets! If you’re between sizes, take the smaller size, I found it came up slightly big on the bust.
The Feathered Co-Ord:
The easiest-to-wear party piece I’ve seen on the high street, this fringed co-ord is just effortlessly chic thanks to the flared sleeves, high neck and loose, flowing silhouette. It looks great tucked into a black slip skirt but I love it paired with the matching fringed trousers with an embellished clutch bag.
The Oversized Blazer:
I’ve never met an oversized blazer from H&M that I didn’t like, and this one goes the extra mile for party season thanks to the tuxedo style, satin detailing and padded shoulders. I’m wearing it buttoned up here with nothing underneath (😏) but it looks great worn over a white collared shirt. It does come up very oversized, so again, size down if you’re between sizes.
For more from GLAMOUR’s Website Director Ali Pantony, follow her on Instagram @alipantony.