We’ll probably see loads of cost-conscious casual soirées this year and that’s no problem. We can look and be festive on any budget. The holiday season is here and it’s time to dress up!

A pair of sleek dark wash jeans, or black-black jeans can be the basis of a fabulous casual party outfit. All you need to add is a bit of party edge and here’s how:

• Embellished top: think sequins, beads, silk, organza, lurex, satin and shine, shine, shine. Sheer shimmery blouses, beaded knitwear, velvet jackets, lacy camisoles and just about any other type of dressy top will work with a killer pair of jeans.
• Dazzling accessory: You might like to keep the top fairly plain and add a fun statement accessory to the look instead. Like a sparkly scarf, glittery belt or gleaming brooch. Funky forum member Antje showcased this look perfectly when she paired a white button-down with a black jacket, waistcoat and oversized red floral brooch (here is the thread in the forum). She looked stylishly festive.
• Dressy shoes: Heeled pumps, strappy sandals, bejeweled flats, or a pair of fancy boots will do the trick. Anything shiny and metallic is good.
• Small, cheerful handbag: Clutches are a no-brainer, but a small, jovial bag of any description will work.

Rest assured, you have other options if jeans aren’t your thing. But glamming up jeans is flop proof and you’ve probably got most of the components in your closet already, making this outfit especially cost effective.

These pictures capture all the elements, but are not quite as dramatic as I would have liked. I recently purchased a sparkly formal shawl to accompany a ball gown. It doubles up as a scarf and I fully intend to pair it with jeans, a silky top, heels and a clutch for a stylish, but casual holiday look.