There is one rule this Christmas that you must adhere to if you want to be the belle of the ball: remember to add bling to your party outfit.

Lace motifs, beading, diamante, feathers and sequins tick all the boxes on our wish list as party fashion goes ultra-glam.

The dress still reigns supreme and there are many different styles to choose from so that you can find the one that will flatter your shape.

For top-heavy girls the tulip-shaped dress with broad shoulder straps will make you look like a fairy princess. For bottom-heavy girls the 50s prom dress is the perfect way to disguise your bigger bottom, especially if it has detail on the top half. For those with an hourglass shape the satin maxi oozes glamour.

Alternatively go for an all-in-one in a slinky material that is either plain black or navy, or vamp it up with animal print for a look that is straight off the catwalk (have I told you that the 70s are making a comeback?).

Velvet is a big trend this winter and you will be able to find maxi dresses (we love the burgundy backless dress from Biba in House of Fraser), 60s embellished shift dresses (we love the velvet mini dress in TK Maxx), tunic dresses (we love the grey velvet Chelsea tunic from White Stuff) and prom dresses (we love the red panelled velvet and chiffon dress from Primark).

If velvet is not your bag opt for silk or satin.

Then with your party outfit purchased it's time to make a choice – do you accessorise or not?

Minimalist outfits are a fashion craze at the moment, so if you like this look let your dress make a statement on its own and wear with a pair of plain court shoes.

For those that love accessorising, go for a long necklace if the neckline of your dress is high or a chunky statement piece if your dress is plain.

Bangles are a great way of making an outfit ultra glam. Layer different metals and textures and wear bangles on one arm to really create an impact at the party.

Despite the catwalks telling us that kitten heels and mid heels are back, sky-scraping platform heels are still the choice for party-goers.

And if you are wearing last year's party dress and want to give it a bit of a revamp experiment with accessories to your heart's content. An embellished collar necklace will make that little black shift dress look different in an instant. And for the prom dress that you have stored away in your wardrobe, how about putting a belt or piece of ribbon around your waist to give the dress an alternative look?

Whatever you wear this party season, make sure that you have a little bit of sparkle, even if it is only on your clutch bag.

Find out what you should be wearing to the Christmas party this year by taking a look at the Life Matters party shoot. Click on the picture gallery at the top right of the page.