Festive fashion updates under £50

 If you find that this year there just isn't the cash for a new party outfit, never fear we have the answer. This year pull out your time-honoured LBD or last year's party dress and make a statement with stand-out accessories. It's all in the detail.

Spot on

Hosiery has stepped up a gear this season and there are all manner of patterns, textures and colours to choose from to give a classic dress a new lease of life. Gerbe's spotty tights are the height of Parisian sophistication with an equally cheeky sense of fun. Keep your outfit simple and let your legs do the talking with these subtle show-stoppers.

Gerbe spotted tights, £25

www.my-tights.com

Midas touch

There's nothing like a new handbag, and when it comes to parties there's only one to be seen with - the clutch. We love that this beautiful high street version, with its optional gold chain strap, looks so much expensive than it actually is, and black and gold coluring makes it versatile. Add this gilded gem to any outfit and sparkle your way through the festive period.

Aladdin's lamp gem encrusted clutch bag, £40 Accessorize

A taste of cherry

You will be suprised how easily makeup can transform a familiar outfit into something extraordinary. This season instead of the classic red lip, why not try a deep burgundy such as Revlon's popular Black Cherry for a wine-stained pout? It may look dark here but the colour is extremely wearable and much easier to maintain than red. For an instant 2009 beauty update that won't break the bank, look no further. 

Black Cherry lipstick, £7.29 Revlon

Pearly queen

Statement necklaces should be big, bold and worn with a simple outfit to maximise their impact. Despite the numerous gem encrusted offerings on the high street we love the romantic simplicity of this pearl and ribbon creation from John Lewis. Take the Lanvin catwalk as inspiration and team with a classic black dress and long gloves this Christmas.

Pearl and grosgain ribbon necklace, £50 John Lewis

Feathered friend

If you're looking for that extra special touch to your Christmas party outfit this year, we recommend clipping in a chic hair accessory. Infinitely more wearable than a hat, an embellished hair slide lifts a tired dress to stylish heights especially when teamed with 1940's red lips and somewhere fabulous to go.

Feathered hair accessory, £25 Reiss

See our Christmas fashion and beauty guide with party hairstyles, makeup tips and festive buys

Party makeup that stays on all night

Lingerie to make you feel fabulous this Christmas

Grown up glitter beauty buys