Rise to the occasion this festive season with a suitably sleek outfit of velvet, embroidery and tasseled loafers.

’Tis the season to party. Whether it be with work, friends outside the office, or just you and a bottle of sherry in your front room (not just us, surely?), the holiday season means events. Occasions that require you to drink, be merry and have a Good Time – whether you like it or not. So you must be prepared. And not just mentally. These festive gatherings are of a different ilk to the usual Saturday night shindig. They’re parties that come with a dress code, and require a little thought and rather more finesse than usual. Whatever the requirements, fear not, because below we have put together a selection of clothing to suit any smart occasion this Christmas. Scroll down to find everything you need for the holidays.

There are a few elements to this blazer that make it appropriate for the coming party season. The velvet lends itself well to dark rooms and festive cheer. Why? It feels a little irreverent, a little dandy-ish. It is also a deep midnight blue, which is fitting for conversing in dark corners but but will also catch the light of a disco ball. And a colourful pocket square – such as the above Etro paisley print – will ensure you catch the attention of, well, anyone you might want to impress. Wear the blazer over the top of a rollneck (try this Maison Margiela merino wool piece) instead of a shirt and tie, to complete the relaxed yet sophisticated feel of this pairing.

It’s not often that you get to wear tasselled loafers, but the type of parties that the winter months bring can warrant such a choice of footwear. They’re fun, and a refined alternative to smart Oxfords. Invest in the best and go for this Italian-made pair from British brand Burberry. All you need is some smart trousers (ones that are a little wider in the leg) like these from Balenciaga, and you’re good to go.

If ever there was a time to show off with accessories, it’s now. But that’s not to say you need to be brash about this. Try this Junghans watch for size – it’s the height of minimalist cool and a worthwhile investment. After all, you’re far better off buying a timepiece now rather than risk putting it on your Christmas list and receiving something not quite to your taste. Wear it in tandem with this discreet Luis Morais bracelet, all black save from silver accent bead engraved with the “Cross of Lorraine” – a heraldic symbol with French origins perfect for a celebratory occasion.