Cocktail party

This is the most indulgent of the festive season soirées, not least because of the unwritten rule that your dress should emulate a colourful cocktail. Think of Cosmopolitan reds, Curaçao blues and crème de menthe greens and you will light up the room. This is also the occasion to raise hemlines. The dress code is less formal than at a black-tie event. Wearing a dress that falls just above the knee is often the most flattering, particularly if you wear heels. But remember – don’t flash too much flesh. Cocktail parties are inherently sophisticated, dimply thighs are not.

Office party

Discretion – sartorial and beyond – is crucial at the office shindig. If you wish your career to follow an upward trajectory then forget mini-skirts, see-through fabrics or neck-lines that freefall towards the navel. The little black dress, however, is a cliché; a simultaneously colourful and subtle dress will make you stand out in the crowd. Keep your jacket on to maintain an air of professionalism in the face of free booze. For a little extra help you can consult the Fashion Advice Service at John Lewis free of charge. The one-hour consultations are running in store throughout November and December. Call 08456 049049 for details.

Charity ball

The revival of the maxi dress in the summer has reignited a passion for toe-skimming lengths. So few occasions offer the chance to actually wear full-length formal gowns that when they do come along it’s worth taking the plunge. Silk provides the most flattering shapes – and it makes you feel like a movie star. Go for Gucci’s block colours or take inspiration from another fashion stalwart, Helena Christensen. Her collaboration with Monsoon has provided a 100 per cent silk maxi dress in plum (with sleeves) for £95. If you don’t win belle of the ball with this one, then demand a refund.

Trip to the ballet

The Royal Opera House may stipulate when the ice-creams are on sale (during the intervals only, apparently) but as far as dress code is concerned there’s not even a cursory guide. Informal evening-wear is the modern option (black tie is a thing of the past) so opt for an attire similar to what you would wear at a formal restaurant. That means no flesh-baring halternecks, elaborate evening gowns or feather boas, but also no jeans – unless you want to attract disapproving glances from behind glossy programmes. A dress worn with an embellished evening coat is the ideal blend of the sophisticated and the refined.

Lunch with colleagues

The Christmas jolly in the middle of a working day is a style minefield. Do I change outfits? Do I go in my suit? Will I look like the sad employee who lacks any creative streak if I stick to grey? The best advice is to opt for small and easily made changes to your existing outfit. Choose something from the smarter end of your wardrobe, such as a well-structured dress, then carry a change of shoes in your work bag. Swap your safe black flats for colourful heels and add some bold jewellery surreptitiously beforehand. Top marks for strategy, initiative and time management.

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