After Dark: A/W Party Edit 2025
A guide to looking glam (and staying warm) this A/W Party Season.
We are officially in the gear-up to Christmas. The search is on for the perfect festive décor, thoughtful Christmas gifts, and – crucially – this season’s standout partywear.
And for those of us with winter birthdays (myself included), the challenge is doubled. Dressing for an evening that’s both celebratory and sub-zero demands a delicate balance: glamour without the goosebumps.
That’s where the fun comes in. Fortunately, A/W 2025 has risen to the occasion with sequins, plush layers, and statement knee-high boots – bringing us warmth, as well as the drama. Winter celebrations may be cold, but they’re anything but understated.
Here’s everything you need to know about this season’s partywear trends, inspired by the A/W 2025 collections.
Shimmer Season
Carolina Herrera, Bronx & Banco, Dolce & Gabbana, Roberto Cavalli AW25 (Credit: Getty Images, Launchmetrics Spotlight, Isidore Montag).
Winter glam is not complete without a little sparkle. Whether it’s head-to-toe shimmer or intricate embellishments, sequins can make the chilliest nights feel festive.
Similar to this year’s summer season, sequin skirts are proving just as popular for A/W 2025 – though pastels have given way to rich chocolate browns and pops of red. Likewise, sequin hot pants are making a bold statement this season, perfect for pairing with cozy knits or tailored blazers.
Sequin dresses continue to reign as a winter party staple, from midi-lengths to shimmering minis. You don’t have to freeze either – pair your favourite sequin number with sheer tights and a chic pair of kitten heels for effortless winter elegance.
Bershka
Sequinned mini skirt in brown
£35.99
Oh Polly
‘Cherelle’ Embellished Peekaboo Midaxi Dress in Black
£120
MOTEL ROCKS
Cosio Halter Top in Mix Sequin Red
£34
Dark, Romantic Lace
Fendi, Saint Laurent, Chloé, Chanel AW25 (Credit: Launchmetrics Spotlight).
As winter approaches, lace sheds its delicate and dainty image. This A/W season sees the fabric reimagined in dark, rich tones, melting into inky blacks and deep burgundies. Structured silhouettes, flowing bell sleeves, and fur cuffs give lace a modern edge that balances romance with gothic drama.
Flared lace trousers are a standout piece this season, giving a bold silhouette that pairs effortlessly with tailored blazers. Fitted lace tops with fur trims are also a popular statement piece, exuding a sense of opulent elegance perfect for winter evenings.
Gina Tricot
Long sleeve v neck lace top in black
£30
ASOS DESIGN
Lace sheer flare trouser in black
£24
ZARA
Lace embroidered dress
£39.99
Fiercely Festive
Dolce & Gabbana, Robert Cavalli, Aknvas, Marc Cain AW25 (Credit: Launchmetrics Spotlight).
If there’s one print that never truly goes out of style, it’s leopard.
Leopard print is back this A/W season, working beautifully in evening skirts and dresses, as well as in fur trims and statement jeans. If you want a standout party piece, leopard coats – from faux fur to long-line trenches – are perfect for layering over simpler outfits.
I like my leopard print natural and muted, avoiding bold or overly vibrant colours. If you prefer subtlety, opt for pieces with leopard accents, letting the print enhance your outfit without overpowering it. Complete your outfit with knee-high black boots, black faux-fur, and gold accessories.
MURCI
‘Kitty’ plisse lace cup leopard mini dress
£55
NA-KD
Faux Fur Leopard Coat
£129.95
OFFICE
Million Slingback Court Kitten Heels in Leopard
£42.99
Step Up Your Style
Miu Miu, Chloé, Burberry, and Michael Cors AW25 (Credit: Getty Images).
Knee-high boots have been strutting down the runways yet again, proving they’re a non-negotiable staple for the A/W season. From chunky everyday styles to heeled statement pairs, they instantly give an outfit that effortless It Girl vibe (and keep your feet warm in the process).
Sleek pointed styles and classic stilettos add elegance and elongate the leg, while chunky heels with buckle detailing give a more utility-inspired look. Sleek leather, soft suede, or subtle patent finishes add polish and edge, while neutral tones like black, brown, and taupe keep the look super classy.
Elevate a mini dress with black knee-high heels and a long-line coat for understated elegance.
New Look
Dark Brown Faux Leather Knee High Boots
£59.99
OFFICE
Kadell Pointed Toe Knee High Boots
£80
Linzi
Linzi Brown Fierce High Leg Boots With Double Buckle Detail
£60
Layered in Luxury
Stella McCartney, Fendi, and Schiaparelli AW25 (Credit: Getty Images).
Keeping warm doesn’t mean sacrificing style – in fact, it can elevate your look. Faux fur remains an A/W staple year after year, adding a statement layer that’s both stylish and practical.
From full-length coats to cropped jackets and subtle fur trims, these statement pieces add texture, colour, and warmth, instantly transforming even the simplest outfit into something a little more boujie. Stick to timeless shades like black, camel, or chocolate, or make a bold move with rich burgundy or leopard print.
Pair a long-line faux fur coat with a black mini dress and knee-high boots, and you’re ready to celebrate in style – whether that’s in rain, wind, or snow.
With the right styling, a faux-fur coat isn’t just outerwear – it’s the star of your A/W party wardrobe.
Stradivarius
Faux fur coat
£75.99
New Look
Brown Faux Suede Fur Trimmed Jacket
£64.99
ZARA
Reversible double-faced faux fur coat
£109
