While a little black dress, or a sequin top is always en point for the party scene, who says festive fashion has to be so cut and dry? It’s time to tear up the rule book and mix cocktail with casual, opulent with ordinary and embrace a little elegant eccentricity .

Tis’ the season to work a little drama into your style and dial up the glam factor. But as our fashion story, shot against the whimsical elegance of Killkea castle shows, it’s the addition of the unexpected that elevates an outfit - a bejewelled cap for cocktails, a silk dress for winter walks, a cosy knit worn with chiffon and glitter. If your Christmas calendar is full of events, and you need a different look for each, why not rent a few show-stopping gowns to keep the designer thrills coming and pair with high street accessories, so you don’t completely deplete the Santa fund.