THE JOURNAL
If the foremost concern at the top of The Journal readers’ minds this festive period is what on earth to gift, then the second is surely what on earth to wear. It doesn’t help that the style stakes are even higher this year, too, with three party seasons’ worth of merriment to pack into one. But before you get too excited and deck yourself out in head-to-toe sequins in a bid to earn best-dressed at your office party, we’re here to remind you – and indeed ourselves – that sometimes the most subtle additions can be more than enough to dazzle. And just to prove our point, we’ve selected seven festive finishing touches that we’re confident will invite conversation and elicit compliments, whatever else you’re wearing.
01.
The Dries Van Noten silver loafers
Mr Dries Van Noten famously doesn’t do boring, which is exactly what makes his designs a party-season no-brainer. Exhibit A: these padded metallic leather loafers, which promise to infuse a low-key going-out outfit with some seasonal sparkle – and are equally snug enough to take for a spin on the dancefloor.
02.
The EÉRA diamond earring
Small in size but significant in impact, a well-chosen statement earring can do a good deal of heavy lifting in a festive ensemble. Our pick is this edgy, industrial-style creation by Italian jewellery brand EÉRA, which packs eye-catching colour, two precious metals and a smattering of diamonds into a pleasingly compact parcel.
03.
The CELINE HOMME sequinned beanie
Think a chilly outdoor event means trading fun for function? Think again. As it happens, our good friends over at CELINE HOMME have gifted us this glittering sequin-adorned wool beanie just in the time for the holidays, which generously delivers warmth and festive cheer in equal measure.
04.
The green IWC Schaffhausen Portugieser
There are watches that seek to slip discreetly into the background and watches that vie for attention – and no doubt this Portugieser timepiece by IWC Schaffhausen falls firmly into the latter camp. That’s all thanks to that gleaming deep-green dial and matching alligator strap, which will grab the attention of your fellow guests from a mile off and draw them into your orbit.
05.
The TOM FORD zebra-print loafers
If you’re looking to stand out among a sea of tuxes, without veering too far from the black-tie blueprint, then you’ll need to employ those finishing touches extra wisely. Our expert advice: break the rules a little and swap out your old-school Oxfords for these rakish zebra-print loafers by TOM FORD, which will instantly appoint you the most magnetic man in the room.
06.
The 42 SUNS tennis necklace
A word of warning: this 42 SUNS tennis necklace is not recommended for the party guest who plans to slip in and out with minimal fuss. With its string of richly hued and impressively hefty emeralds, all set in a bed of 14-karat white gold, it’s safe to say this showstopping piece of jewellery – and, accordingly, whoever wears it – will have a tough time going unnoticed.
07.
The Bleue Burnham signet ring
If you’re on the hunt for a single accessory that communicates all your best qualities in one fell swoop – exquisite taste, approachability, environmental awareness – then look no further than this rainbow-coloured signet ring. The handiwork of self-taught London jeweller Bleue Burnham, it’s been cast from recycled sterling silver, studded with ethical lab-grown sapphires, and makes for a worthy addition to your eveningwear armoury.