Shine in elegant gowns from Adrianna Papell, Monsoon and Debenhams this Christmas

With party season in full swing, it’s time to turn to elegant styles such as gowns and sequin columns dresses for the more sophisticated soirees. 

For a look worthy of royalty, swap thigh baring mini dresses for classic longer hemlines that will make you feel like a princess.

However, looking expensive needn’t cost the earth as the high street is full of twinkling treasures that’ll make you feel like a million dollars, such as this dress from Goddiva.

Model wears: Dress, £89, Goddiva (goddiva.co.uk); headband, £30, Katie Mangan (katiemangan.co.uk)

Where better to showcase stunning gowns than Cliveden House? The award-winning five-star hotel in Berkshire hosted Meghan Markle the night before the Royal Wedding.

Take inspiration from the Duchess of Sussex and opt for a rich, jewel toned hue for your Christmas or New Year’s Eve party this season.

Model wears (left): Dress, £450, Gina Bacconi at John Lewis (johnlewis.com); shoes, £22.99, New Look (newlook.com)’ hair slides, £12, Johnny Loves Rosie (johnny-loves-rosie.com)

Model wears (right): Dress, £234, Adrianna Papell at John Lewis (as before); shoes, £42, Miss Selfridge (missselfridge.com); headband, £32, Glitzy Secrets (glitzysecrets.com); bag, £70, Dune London (dunelondon.com)

While black may be a failsafe option when it comes to Christmas party dressing, try navy blue for a stylish alternative. This glittery racer back gown from Dynasty from add a touch of sparkle to your evening out.

For a truly attention grabbing look, this mustard gown from the Duchess of Cambridge‘s favourite designer Jenny Packham’s diffusion line at Debenhams will turn heads when you walk into the party.

Model wears (left): Dress, £369, Dynasty London (dynasty.london); heels, £40, Schuh (schuh.co.uk); Earrings, £135, Alex Monroe (alexmonroe.co.uk); headpieces, £40, Jon Richard (jonrichard.com)

Model wears (right): Beaded column dress, £190, No 1 Jenny Packham at Debenhams (debenhams.com); shoes, £69. Office (office.co.uk); Ring, £135, Pandora (pandora.net); bracelet, £98, Dower & Hall (dowerandhall.com); headband, £45, Katie Mangan (katiemangan.co.uk)

For a truly dramatic look, this unique silver sequin frock from ASOS will dazzle those around you.

The unique one shoulder design and assymetic hem will make a strong style statement.

Team with silver toned accessories for a look fit for a princess.

Model wears: Sequin dress, £250, Asos (asos.com); shoes, £46, Topshop (topshop.com); hair clip, £26, Glitzy Secrets (glitzysecrets.com); earrings, £350, Ellie Air (ellieair.co.uk)

Black and gold never go out of style for the Christmas party season. This feminine embellished tulle gown from Monsoon is the perfect timeless style. Team with gold accessories and a velvet bag for a night out to remember. 

Alternatively, go for gold in this embellished geometric column from Julien Macdonald’s range for Debenhams. You’ll want to dance all night in this gem of a gown.

Model wears (left): embellished dress, £250, Monsoon (monsoon.co.uk); shoes, £40, Schuh (as before); headband, £28, Johnny Loves Rosie (as before); earrings, £540, Ellie Air (as before); bag, £25, Topshop (as before)

Model wears (right): Sequin column, £250, Star by Julien Macdonald at Debenhams (as before); shoes, £80; bag, £140, both Dune London (as before); earrings, £170, Dower & Hall (as before); ring £80, Pandora (as before)

Fashion editor: Antonia Kraskowski

Photographs: Helen Marsden

Hair and makeup: Jenni Davis using MAC and Kenra hair products

Fashion assistant: Abby McHale

Model: Emma Atkins at Profile

Photographed at Cliveden House in Berkshire, an award-winning five-star hotel and spa that’s steeped in history and less than 45 minutes west of London. For details, see clivedenhouse.co.uk