We have all felt that moment of panic when the word is out of an invitation to a party that you just have to go to, if not for work reasons, for family or friends.

First comes the excitement, yes! A party! Excuse to dress up!

Next comes the Oh my God, what am I going to wear?I cant wear the same dress as I wore last year, everyone will know, and I don’t even think it will fit me anymore….. dilemma moment.

Well, don’t panic! Before you rush out with your credit card ready to absorb the brunt of your excitement, take a moment to revisit what you do have and how you can add some sparkle and shine to look like you have just stepped out of a magazine shoot.

First, do you have black pants, skirt, basic camisoles in different colors, maybe white pants, coloured jeans, black dress? These are the wardrobe staples that can form the basis for adding a couple of new season fashion elements.

Accessories and colour are the 2 items that can be added most easily to these. For example, necklaces, shoes, bags, are all items that can change the look of an outfit and take it from glum to glam in an instant.

Second: consider refreshing your hairstyle and colour. Get some advice and tips from your hair stylist on how you can use products to look more festive. There are so many beautiful hair pieces available to add focus, and take the emphasis away from the fact that you are wearing the same dress as last year.

Thirdly: have a makeup lesson to learn how to apply your makeup differently for a more glamorous look. A little more liner, false lashes, and brighter lipstick can really add some sparkle to your face, attracting the onlookers attention to you and not your outfit!

Lastly, if you do decide to purchase a new season garmet, choose one that is not just a fashion fad, but one that will service you again and again. I suggest looking for the wow factor jacket that can be worn over anything, it might be tuxedo style or in a brighter colour, a beautiful silk top in your absolute best colour that compliments your hair, skin and eyes, a pair of great fitting black or white pants in fabric and style that works with your body shape, and one or 2 other layering pieces that can be worn loose or belted if that works for you. You might even like to experiment with the new kaftan styles that are everywhere right now, the fabric is soft and flowing, they often have embellishment at the neckline so you don’t have to add anything else there, and they can be worn to almost any event with the right style of shoe and bag.

Most of all, be yourself smile and laugh and enjoy.