Whether your festive party is formal, hip or casual, it’s better to be overdressed than underdressed, says stylist Shana James.

You can dress for the most upscale event and then switch accessories if you really need to dress it down.

For example, taking off chandelier earrings or throwing on a cool scarf can instantly take down a look. If you want to look effortlessly chic and stylish, here are some guidelines.

Shopping for a dress

Decide on formality

Usually your invitation will clue you in on the formality, but if not, remember that the later in the day, the dressier the occasion.

Flatter your figure

The most important feature of your dress is how well it flatters you.

Darker colours and simple cuts are the most flattering. Show off your best feature. If you have gorgeous eyes, play them up with beautiful make-up and a complementary shade of jewelled earrings.

Choose a colour

The little black dress will always be the epitome of timeless fashion. It knows no social style or size boundaries. To accessorise, keep legs bare or an updated twist is to add patterned tights.

Embellish the look with sparkly earrings, bag and a wrap, because the simple black dress carries

Colour is hot this season. Red, bold prints and even the metallics are dramatic enough for evening wear. Blue (from navy to royal), pink (from cotton candy to fuchsia), white and cream look great on almost everyone.

Pick a style

Style is natural confidence, it’s not all about the clothes themselves, but how the person inside brings them to life.

To look sensational and confident, comfort is key.

Accessorise

Coloured jewels are fashionable this season, but don’t over-accessorise. A dazzling clutch is often all you need to finish a look.

For more coverage, add a sheer wrap to wear around your shoulders.

Shoes can make or break an outfit, so only decide on these once you have the whole outfit together. Shoes must be comfortable, especially if you plan to dance the night away.

Don’t buy shoes for just one outfit or occasion. Think in terms of multiple outfits.