From The Straits Times    |

Sure, we know it’s the same year in year out and no, we never actually organise our outfits or our plans months before like we keep promising ourselves. So the same vicious circle ensues and here we are, on the cusp of the new year with no idea yet where we’re going, who we’ll be with and of course, what we’ll be wearing. Rest assured though, we’re confident in the universe delivering some epic last minute plans for us to celebrate 2018 in style.

Talking of style – to take away as much pre-new year’s stress as we possibly can, we’ve put together a complete ensemble guide that will get you dressed to impress, minus all the kerfuffle. To make it even easier, these party outfits are all from the same store too, so you don’t even need to get lost in a mall to complete your desired attire.
 

The office New Year celebrations

Left to right: 1. Floral Print Scuba Bodycon Midi Dress $159.90, 2. Firm Control Full Slip $45, 3. Stiletto Heel Back Zip Tassel Sandals $70

The dreaded office new year party where you want to enjoy the free-flow but not enjoy it too much. Yep, we’ve all got the fear. But one thing you won’t need to worry about is how you look in front of the CEO – we’ve got your perfect party outfit at the ready. This Marks & Spencer floral print midi dress covers you up in all the required places whilst keeping on trend with a front split and black lace trim at the bottom hem and capped sleeves too. We are drawn to the elegant floral print.

The dress is designed to bring attention to your waist and deliver a feminine silhouette, so if you feel a little on the conscious side with bodycon dresses, this firm control slip flattens tummies, shapes waists and slims your hips and thighs, for your desired shape.

Whilst we want the dress to make all the statement, we’ve chosen to pair it with with red tassel tie heels. Why? Because the red will pick out the red flowers in the material and, let’s be honest, these will be perfect to re-emerge for CNY celebrations too.
 

Girls’ night out

Left to right: 1. Lamé Drape Long Sleeve Bodycon Midi Dress $90, 2. Firm Control No VPL $89.90

The girls’ have decided they want to see NYE in together and you’re not missing it for the world. Whilst we all struggle with our busy schedules week in, week out, we know we’ll always find time over the holidays to get together and enjoy hilarious catch ups over cocktails. So, for such a significant occasion, you can never go wrong with an LBD – and we’ve picked out this little number because it has a metallic front panel that makes it that little bit extra than just a black dress.

To ensure your figure stays as smooth as your espresso martini, we’d suggest pairing this dress with Marks & Spencer’s no visible panty line firm control body. It’s designed for all-over shaping with targeted firm control areas to flatten your tummy, shape your waist and smooth your hips, creating the perfect silhouette.
 

Romantic dinner evening

Left to right: 1. Sparkly flared sleeve bardot top $60, 2. Velvet Pleated A-Line Midi Skirt $60, 3. Elongated Clutch Bag $50

Whether it’s your first date, your weekly ‘night together’ with the boyfriend or your husband’s new year treat, a dinner date with someone always deserves an outfit that is a ‘little bit extra’. As it’s a known fact that a lot of our femininity lies within our shoulders and neckline, we’ve chosen this silver Bardot top that shows off aforementioned body parts, whilst remaining demure with the long sleeves. In keeping with our desired sophisticated style, we’ve paired this with a pleated navy A-line skirt. The fabric cut will help draw attention to your waist whilst the rich soft-to-touch velvet material ensures you are keeping with the sparkling NYE spirit.

Across the table, he’ll struggle to keep his eyes off you, but to ensure they’re firmly glued – we’ve paired this with an indulgent looking (but not priced!) crystal choker necklace that sits neatly at the base of your neck. What’s more, Marks & Spencer’s ‘Skin Kind’ jewellery range such as this choker goes beyond the normal hypoallergenic standards, designed to be extra kind to sensitive skin.

For your essentials, we’ve included a faux leather elongated clutch bag which stays in keeping with the rest of your ensemble.
 

The house party

Left to right: 1. Metallic Notch Neck Long Sleeve Blouse $89.90, 2. Perfect Fit Memory Foam Padded Push-Up Bra $89.903. Block Heel Court Shoes $69.90

Some like to stay in and party indoors to see in the new year, while others like to head out the city. This metallic gold long sleeved blouse is elegant with its high neckline, lightweight to wear and can transcend all types of evening plans, should you decide last minute that the bar is calling. To keep this extra elegant, tuck it into a high-waisted velvet midi in black to make sure everybody knows that yes, you are staying indoors but no, your style should not be compromised in the process.

Opt for a soft-padded full cup bra to compliment this outfit. Given the top’s neckline you won’t run the risk of exposing your chest area, but the bra will help give you that little extra boost you may look for in your lingerie.

Finally, team with these trendy block kitten heeled patent shoes so you can comfortably dance the night away minus any January 1st morning blisters to deal with.
 

The family gathering

Left to right: 1. Floral Print Long Sleeve Tunic Midi Dress $79.90, 2. Firm Control Magicwear Geometric Waist and Thigh Cincher $129.90

We suggest playing it safe with this tunic midi dress that has a high neckline, long sleeves and the hem finishes just above the knee. With nothing exposed but your figure still intact with the matching tie-up belt, you’ll definitely be a hit with everyone in the room. We think the large floral print is great for showing off your personality whilst the style of the dress keeps you classy.

For any bloat concerns or post-fizzy-alcohol belly, we’d suggest wearing underneath the firm control waist cincher. Without causing uncomfortable restriction, the waist cincher will hold you in where needed, give your bottom a slight lift and deliver that desires posture and figure all-night long.

There’s only one thing left to really ask yourself – when do you have a free day to go shopping?

Psst! Further Reduction Sale now on at M&S! Enjoy up to 70% off selected items, excluding food, wine & hampers. Other terms and conditions apply. Check in-store for details.

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