Be party perfect this Christmas with these tips for the perfect dress

AFTER a year of property tax penury, austerity anxiety and constrained consumer spending, we are all badly in need of some life-affirming glamour and, dare we even say it (now that the Troika is departing), some unapologetic fun.

The office party has been a tame affair for the past few years, as the all-out hedonism of the boom was replaced by low-key drinks and peanuts down the pub. This year, we feel the need for a proper party and we want some new clothes to dress up in, too. Our purchasing power may be diminished, but women still crave colour, luxury and style. Here are five of the best party looks of the season: