Dressing for a party can cause more headaches that almost any other occasion.

Apart from our wedding day, there are few occasions in life that require us to really "dress up" and make a big effort.

Perhaps that's why it can be so easy to get it wrong when it comes to Christmas party outfits.

To help you avoid those party pitfalls, here are some tips to make sure you sparkle this festive season....

P Don't give too much away! While a Christmas party might seem the perfect excuse to show off plenty of flesh, the advice is simply "don't". While a hint of leg through a side split in a dress, or a glimpse of shoulder through a chiffon blouse can be chic, a mini skirt and low cut top combination will rarely be attractive. This autumn and winter, it's all about 1940s-influenced restrained elegance, so don't throw away the style book just because it's Christmas.

P Santa Claus, jingling bells or reindeer earrings may be "fun" but will never earn you style points. If you are going to go down the kitsch route then just be aware that your fellow partygoers may laugh with you about your outfit, but you won't be drawing any admiring glances.

P Sparkle can be good at a Christmas party, and a flash of diamant is always going to work well. Avoid spray-on sparkle for the face, body or hair. That look has more in common with 1970s gymnasts than stylish 21st century partygoers. Don't be afraid to add the sparkle with accessories. A classic little black dress can be brought to life with sparkly strappy sandals, a glitzy purse or the right piece of jewellery. In keeping with the 1940s theme, brooches are everywhere this autumn and winter, and they could well be coming into their own during the festive season.