December ensembles are usually all about dresses or fancy suiting. However, if getting dressed to the nines isn’t your thing, then rest assured there’s another option at your disposal.
Thanks to a host of brands—from Nensi Dojaka to Ganni, Zara to Rixo—the going-out top is back in a big way this season, making for the ideal alternative to frocks and jazzy two-pieces. The perfect accompaniment to your trusty jeans or simple skirting, a stand-out top with a pared-back bottom half is the cool-girl way to do party dressing.
The fabrics high on the agenda include all-over sequins, lamé, satin, metallics and, of course, velvet. There’s a serious nod to the ’80s with puff-shoulders, while more modern silhouettes include simple satin tops with long sleeves and scoop necklines.
Strapless tops are also a total fail-safe for Christmas parties, as are leopard motifs and metallic finishes. Keep scrolling for the best party tops this season has to offer, each neatly categorised by trend and style.
Dress this down with light-wash denim.
Doesn’t it look great with the matching skirt?
Yes, roll necks can party-appropriate.
Such a beautiful back detail.
Such a luxe-looking hue.
A top you’ll pull to every season.
You’ll wear this satin top long after December 25.
Act quick, for we predict a sell-out.
The lace detailing is just gorgeous.
Isabel Marant knows how to make ’80s lamé look seriously high-end.
The sleeves on this top are to die for.
Layer this under a sharp tuxedo jacket.
Try clashing your hues by wearing a bright camisole underneath.
A directional way to do an all-black party outfit.
So cute, you’ll find lots of ways to wear this in 2022.
Kitri knows how to make statement party tops.
Try pairing this top with loose-fitting leather trousers.
This mottled leopard print is super versatile.
Our editors are obsessed with this top.
Nensi Dojaka is a name to know for 2022.
Knitted bandeau tops are having a moment right now.
Maybe the best update the white shirt has ever been given.
This top is so, so special.
Ribbing and feathers is the texture combination we never knew we needed until now.
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This post was originally published at an earlier tim and has since been updated.