It's Party Time!

Christmas and New Year celebrations are about to begin, not to mention some holiday time - with occasions to dress up or dress more festively than usual. Summer weather can really bring out the best in us, and this summer, there are some gorgeous, very girlie looks to indulge in.

I know all the magazines are full of wonderful party dresses and myriad options in shoes, bags and jewellery, but if you have limited time and budget, then we've found a few special outfits that can be dressed-up for the Christmas season.

You might need to go from office to party, or from home to a harbour cruise, but its possible to do this with some of this season's dresses. You might also be able to use acessories you've already bought, like strappy high heels (Target $39.99) or a fun basket style bag (Ojay $39).

I found some great budget fashion buys this week:

Target's broderie anglaise sundress - wear with wedge-style shoes or platforms and beads. Keep jewellery light and fun, no serious rocks here! There is a great selection of dresses available, with some under $60. Designers for Target have also produced some gorgeous pieces, they're a little more expensive, but definitely worth looking at.

Ezibuy 's latest catalogue has a great halter neck, A-line style sundress in jewel colours - coral, blue, and of course in black for only $39.95.

Ojay have some beautiful dresses - but be warned they are not exactly budget! They come in prints and floaty fabrics and are excellent for more formal occaisons.

However, the big surprise was Bloch's, the ballet supply stores - found in Bondi, Chatswood, Hornsby and Sydney city. They carry quite a range of flirty summer tops and dresses, mostly under $100. I found a fantastic dress for $99 in a strong print in turquoise/mauve/black or rose/black combinations, they were very smart and could be worn with heels and a tiny clutch or flat slides and larger tote.

If you do need to go straight from work, substituting a more sheer, printed empire line top and platform heels with beaded clutch (say by Jendi) will liven up your more classic skirt or pants. If you think the strappy sundress might need to be dressed-up a little, then take a cropped cardi and some bronze or silver heels.

Of course, don't forget costume jewellery: most chain stores offer current trends like large resin-look bracelet, or drop earrings for very reasonable prices. Think larger pieces, but one or two, rather than an armful of bangles.

With a little bit of creativity you can do the party thing without needing to replace the whole wardrobe! Enjoy the planning, shopping and dressing-up.