This year, shimmer is having just as much of a moment as its bolder, glitter-packed alternative which means you can play with light, texture and festive dressing your way. No pressure, no rules, just the quiet (or not-so-quiet) confidence boost that comes from wearing something that makes you feel amazing.

But what if sparkle feels intimidating?

What if you’d rather not highlight certain areas, or you simply don’t feel like being the disco ball in the room?

Don’t worry—there are clever ways to dip into the trend without feeling overexposed, from low-key shimmer fabrics to glitter-kissed accessories and clever outfit pairings. If you’re ready to explore festive dressing that feels grown-up, wearable and confidence-boosting, keep reading…

Let’s be honest: festive dressing can feel like a lot. Everywhere you turn, it’s sequins, sequins, sequins—as if the only way to celebrate is to twinkle like a disco ball. But here’s the truth: sparkle comes in many forms, and the right one for you depends on your comfort level, your personal style, and how much attention you want to draw.

This year’s trends have something for everyone, from soft pearlescent sheens to liquid-metal fabrics and subtle metallic knits. Instead of thinking about sparkle as a binary—all or nothing—think of it as a spectrum. And somewhere on that spectrum is your perfect party look.

If You Don’t Want to Highlight Certain Areas…

You’re not alone—most women have at least one area they’d prefer not to spotlight, especially under bright lights and sparkly fabrics. The trick is simple:

Place the shimmer where you’re happy to draw the eye

• Love your neckline? Try a shimmer cowl top.
• Prefer highlighting your waist? A softly glowing skirt catches the light in the prettiest, gentlest way.
• Want to avoid attention on your tummy or hips? Let the sparkle live in your accessories—shoes, a clutch, a necklace or even metallic nail polish.

Shimmer reflects light, so use it strategically to guide the gaze where you want it to go.

If You Don’t Love Standing Out

Sparkle doesn’t have to shout. In fact, it can whisper.

If sequins feel like too much, the middle ground is your friend: shimmer fabrics. They’re soft, fluid, flattering—and they glow rather than glint. This is where the Kettlewell shimmer cowl and pleated skirt really earn their place. They give you that festive feeling without overwhelming you.

They’re also brilliant for another reason: they mix and match effortlessly, meaning you can create multiple outfits from just two pieces. Dress the cowl up with tailored trousers or jeans; pair the skirt with a simple knit or a leather jacket. They transition beautifully from party season into everyday wear, which makes them a sustainable, smart choice too.

If You Want to Dial It Down

Texture is your secret weapon. When pairing shimmer with something more matte or tactile, you instantly soften the effect:

• Throw a faux fur coat over a shimmering top for luxe-but-cosy.
• Add a suede jacket to tone things down but keep everything interesting.
• Try a wool blazer with a metallic camisole for a grown-up glamour moment.

Mixing textures keeps your outfit feeling intentional and stylish rather than “look, I’ve been rolled in glitter.”

If You’re Here For All the Sparkle

Some of us are already fully committed to the festive sparkle lifestyle—and to you we say: go for it. Head-to-toe shimmer is very much on trend this season (think silver trousers, metallic knits, and even shimmering boots). If your style personality loves drama, statement looks and making an entrance, this moment was practically made for you.

Confidence is the best accessory you’ll wear all night.

Trends for Every Style Personality

Because sparkle is everywhere this year, you can match your shine to your vibe:

• The Dramatic – Full sequin dresses, metallic suiting, bold statement sparkle
• The Classic – Shimmer knits, pearlised fabrics, metallic accessories
• The Modern Chic - Whatever is on trend, all the chocolate shimmer with cropped bomber and statement brogue
• The Gamine - Cute boxy sequin top with contrasting collar, metallic straight leg trousers, diamante buttons on soft knit
• The Natural – Soft metallic scarves, textured shimmer, suede paired with a shine
• The Ethereal - Fluid mesh layers with iridescent threads, tiny singular sequins
• The Ingenue - Sequin skirt with lace blouse, delicate shimmer on shoes and small clutch bags
• The Romantic – Draped shimmer dresses with sequin or diamante encrusted accessories

There’s no right or wrong way to shine—it’s about choosing what feels authentically you.

And If You Hate Sequins Altogether…

Skip them! Style confidence beats sequins every single time. There’s no point wearing something that makes you feel self-conscious, overdressed, or not yourself.

Wear what lights you up—literally or figuratively.

Final Thoughts: Sparkle, But Make It You

Festive style should feel joyful, not stressful. Whether you’re going full shimmer, adding just a hint, or keeping it quietly chic with textured layers, the goal is simple: to look in the mirror and feel good. If sparkle adds even 1% more confidence, it’s worth embracing.

Here’s to shining—your way.