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PARTY-READY SHAPEWEAR

What lies beneath matters. We take three figure-hugging festive looks and reveal how to feel x10 more confident in them

THE OUTFIT: PENCIL SKIRT

A hip-skimming wiggle skirt nods to old-school glamour (think Marilyn Monroe) and is always a chic choice for holiday parties. This season’s skirt options come bedecked in catwalk-inspired sequins and look suitably festive paired with a cashmere sweater and silver shoes. Just add a relaxed up-do and red lipstick for the final flourish.



THE SHAPEWEAR: BIG PANTIES

Hang up any hang-ups you might have about wearing a pencil skirt and invest in a pair of magic panties. These hip-whittling, tummy-smoothing wonder pants have come a long way since Bridget Jones’ unbecoming beige pair circa 2001, and the latest styles now elegantly fuse style and comfort. Opt for a pair with feminine lace panelling for a bombshell-worthy look.



THE OUTFIT: THE BODY-CON DRESS

If your invite calls for cocktail attire, a chic little black dress is your safest bet. A deep V-shaped neckline is flattering and on trend this season, while elbow-length sleeves remove the need for a cardigan or jacket (one less last-minute decision to make while the taxi waits outside). Just add undone waves and high heels for instant polish.



THE SHAPEWEAR: FIRM-CONTROL SLIP

Create the illusion of hourglass curves under your body-con dress with a waist-cinching slip. Tailored from super-stretch fabric, this innovative design promises clean lines under fitted clothes without restricting movement (hello, dancefloor). Forget any notions of old-fashioned corsetry or fiddly hook-eye fastenings with a pull-on style. The best bit? You can wear your own bra to ensure just the right level of support.



THE OUTFIT: THE GOING-OUT TOP

What to wear this party season if you’re not a dresses or skirts person? Try the ‘nice top and pants’ combo. It’s every bit as festive when you keep the textures interesting: think sequins and satin for a luxurious feel. We also love these plush velvet pants, which feel on-point teamed with a silk camisole and glittery slingback heels. In fact, suiting is a savvy choice if you have lots of desk-to-dinner dos to navigate in December.



THE SHAPEWEAR: WAIST CINCHER

High-waisted pants may look effortlessly chic, but they can also feel a tad restrictive after a mince pie or three. Conjure up a nipped-in effect in seconds with a waist cincher, which sculpts an hourglass silhouette while being so comfortable you’ll almost forget you’re wearing it. Which is a shame really, when it’s as pretty as this one with its retro-chic jacquard fabric.



Editor: Dulcie Emerson / Photographer: David Gubert / Stylist: Chloe Forde / Hair stylist: Ben Cooke / Make-up artist: Emma Kotch / Nail artist: Charley Avenell / Model: Iza at Milk

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