The Edit: Partywear Essentials for the Festive Season

 

The glamorous parties and events that come with the end-of-year festive season calls for show-stopping looks that loudly say that celebrations are well and truly back in full force. After a low-key fashion year, the time is right for a reentry into the Christmas gatherings and New Year’s Eve parties that we are used to.

For those who are not wallflowers, the new collections from fashion brands from Africa and the diaspora have delivered statement dresses and chic accessories that stand out for all the right reasons.

Below, we’ve curated an edit of the key pieces that will stylishly see you through the celebrations of the festive season. 

The Dresses

The best way to achieve an effortless party look is by choosing a single piece to build your outfit around: a chic dress. In this area, contemporary Nigerian brand Fruché has you covered. The Agiliga Cocktail Dress is imbued with a sense of glamor that is perfect for after-dark events, thanks to its side cutouts and playful knots and dramatic asymmetric hem. The Onyisi Camel Dress is similarly designed, also with knot details and shoulder cutouts for a sultry look that will make a grand, stylish entrance at any party.

 

The handbags

Up your handbag game for the holidays with the must-carry styles for this season: the top-handle bag. They are easier to keep hold of than a clutch but AW21’s versions are small enough to not be cumbersome—you can set them down on the table or over your seat. Nigerian accessories band Joel Lani offers mini bags with points of interest. The Anika bag comes in oxblood red and mossy green versions crafted from 100% calf leather while the pink Mini Amivi Bubblegum Bag by London-based brand Ibeka provides a ladylike statement. The bold colors will certainly pop against a black cocktail dress.

 

The jewelry

Adding some sparkle to your look is no doubt one of the best ways to complete your party look. Whether you choose classic hoops or designs with unusual shapes, you can’t go wrong with a pair of chic earrings as a finishing touch. Nairobi-based brand SOKO’s Dash Threader hoop earrings have clean, curvy lines that end in convex drops that add a three-dimensional touch. If you prefer something sculptural, the Moonbeam Stud Earrings by Octave will do the trick. They are made by hand from purple jade and the tonal hues will provide a subtle pop of color.

Shop the Partywear edit here