Dare I mention the ‘P’ word? Party season might seem like a while away (although constant Facebook ads keep reminding me that Christmas is 10 weeks away), but the question of what to wear is one worth getting ahead of. I often find myself with sartorial paralysis when it comes to dressing for occasions such as Christmas parties: the desire for something that feels new, without succumbing to a trend that will look tired by January. Thankfully, Claudia Winkleman just made a case on The Celebrity Traitors for keeping things simple.
Wearing The Kooples’ Frill-Collar Contrast-Trim Mini Dress, Winkleman reminds us of the appeal of having an LBD in your corner for any occasion – Christmas or not. A formula as old as time, but one that still holds its own against the more transient trends of party season (sequins, I’m looking at you), an LBD collar and frills or not, is one that requires very little else to feel considered.
Of course, if you’re constantly keeping up with Winkleman, you might notice that we’ve seen this style on her before. Back when Winkleman presented Strictly, she wore an Albaray dress with contrasting white cuffs and collar on the results show – one which is super similar to the The Kooples design she wears in tonight’s episode of The Celebrity Traitors.
Shop: Claudia Winkleman’s Exact The Kooples Dress
The Kooples, Frill-Collar Contrast-Trim Woven Mini Dress
Winkleman is spotted in this exact The Kooples design, styled with a pair of tights and Church's loafers.
320
Winkleman's black mini dress is a good reminder that party dressing doesn't always have to revolve around sequins, feathers, or something you're likely to never wear again. Sometimes, a well-cut black mini is all you need. Her look is one to bookmark ahead of December, and if you're tempted to follow suit, I've scoured the internet for a few similar styles that will do the job just as well as Winkleman's original The Kooples dress.
Shop: Alternatives To Claudia Winkleman’s Black Mini Dress
French Connection, Echo Black Tuxedo Bow Mini Dress
French Connection's style is the most similar I've spotted.
110
Albaray, Contrast Collar & Cuff Velvet Dress
Winkleman has actually worn this Albaray dress before while presenting _Strictly_.
65 (was £99)
Sister Jane, Contrast Collar Puff Sleeve Mini Dress
Sister Jane should be your go-to for whimsical dressing.
59.99 (was £82)
Love & Roses, Lace Collared Tie Detail Knitted Mini Dress
The daisy details at the collar make this style super cute.
56
Nobody's Child, Check Cord Merida Pinafore Mini Dress
This Nobody's Child dress also feels like it would be a Winkleman-approved design.
47 (was £79)
Gemma Lavers is a fashion commerce writer at Grazia, where she tracks down viral pieces and is as comfortable navigating the M&S new-in page as she is dissecting the latest celebrity look. When not writing, shopping or at Reformer Pilates (a cliché but she's hooked), Gemma will likely be planning her next holiday (and what she's going to wear). For a glimpse into said travels, outfit inspo and life as a journalist, follow her on Instagram.