We all long to sparkle at our many festive soirees and shindigs, but if you really want to stand out amid the sea of sequins, it's time to think texture, not tinsel.

This season, let the fabric do the talking, as decadent velvet, opulent jacquard and flirty feathers come to the fore - and a cocktail dress isn't your only option.

VELVET REVOLUTION

Velvet has made a major comeback in recent years, spurred on by the nostalgia for all things Nineties and Seventies.

Go the former route with a halter-ne ck or strappy dress paired with ankle strap heels, or nod to the disco era with chunky platforms.

Long-sleeved, skin-tight velvet - be it a dress or jumpsuit - strikes a good balance between sexiness and practicality, because it'll keep you warm and well-covered.

:: Onjenu Megan Velvet Bordeaux Jumpsuit, £115 (www.onjenu.com)

:: Boohoo Gracie Velvet Halterneck Midi Bodycon Dress, £20 (www.boohoo.com)

:: Paisie Midnight Blue Long-Sleeve Velvet Dress With Back Slits, currently reduced to £40 from £60 (www.paisie.com)

:: Zara Velvet Platform Sandal, £49.99 (www.zara.com)

GO FOR BAROQUE

Jacquard co-ords or a trouser suit are the coolest way to bring a subtle sheen from head to toe. Wear together at your most upmarket do, then restyle the separates throughout party season.

A jewel-toned, slightly cropped brocade top looks great with a swishy pleated midi skirt or rouched pencil skirt, while a pair of metallic trousers works well with a Bardot top or sheer blouse.

Match the richness of the structured fabric with a pair of bejewelled earrings or an ornate bib necklace.

:: W Bronze Tux Jacket, £75; Jacquard Trousers, £45; Suede Boots, £99 (www.wallis.co.uk)

:: Yumi Metallic Jacquard Top, reduced to £35 from £50, and Tulip Skirt, reduced to £35 from £50 (www.yumi.co.uk)

:: Butler & Wilson Crystal Square Drop Earrings, £49.50 (www.qvcuk.com)

IN FINE FEATHER

Now we're not suggesting all-over plumes (that would be a bit too Swan Lake, even for Christmas), but a touch of fluttery detailing on a neck or hemline makes a beautiful addition to an LBD.

Mohair or feathery knits look fab with leather or other shiny textures, and as long as the fit is snug enough, they're party-worthy too.

Give an old festive frock a new spin with fluffy accessories - you won't be able to keep your hands off a supremely soft marabou clutch bag.

:: Fluffy Leopard Jumper, £39; Joanna Hope Foil Pleated Maxi Skirt, £65; Joanna Hope Slingback Shoes Extra Wide Fit, reduced to £12 from £30 (www.jdwilliams.co.uk)

:: Elvi Prima Black Feather Dress, sizes 14-26, £149 (www.elvi.co.uk)

:: SimplyBe Marabou Feather Across Body Bag, £28 (www.simplybe.co.uk)

:: Public Desire Cadence Platform Heels in Black Faux Suede, £29.99 (www.publicdesire.co.uk)

GET THE LOOK

With her red carpet appearances for Spectre, Monica Bellucci has been schooling us all in eveningwear dressing for the over-50s. Loved her inky-black velvet floorlengther at the London premiere? Make like a Bond woman - not girl - yourself, in the Lorcan Mullany for Jacques Vert Velvet Bardot Long Dress, £399 (www.jacques-vert.co.uk)

BUY IT NOW

Getting married next year? Got a bunch of bridesmaids who need kitting out? Then head to the Chi Chi London website, where a collection of princess-worthy dresses is launching on December 10, with styles to suit even the pickiest maid of honour. Even better, prices start at just £54.99.

:: Chi Chi London Bridesmaid Dress, £64.99 (www.chichiclothing.co.uk)

FASHION FLASH

:: IT'S A WRAP

Heading abroad for Christmas? If you're flying from Heathrow, leave some time for departure lounge shopping, because the airport is offering gift-wrapping using paper designed by a trio of top fashion illustrators. The service is free but an optional donation to Oxfam is suggested.

Meanwhile, McArthurGlen Designer Outlets have partnered with fashion designer Holly Fulton on their annual charity Christmas wrap, with all proceeds going to the British Red Cross. The chic paper is available to buy online for the first time too, £3 for six sheets (www.mcarthurglen.co.uk/hollyfulton).

:: AN INCR-EDIBLE CREATION

Christmas Jumper Day is back on December 18, and if competition for the best festive knit is fierce in your office, here's how you could really take the cake: have a go at replicating the world's first edible Christmas jumper, as created by baker Juliet Sear for Dr Oetker. What you'll need? 10kg of icing, 5kg of marzipan and a whole kilo of chocolate, plus 50 hours of baking time. Best of luck!

STYLE STEAL

New affordable fashion site alert: Premier Glam has just landed online, offering trend-led designs and dresses starting from just £15. The dark red Multiway Slinky Mini Dress, £18, can de twisted into six different styles, which, when you think about it, equates to a ludicrous £3 per dress. It's half a dozen bargains in one (www.premierglam.com).