When it comes to party season dressing, we get so preoccupied with finding the perfect dress, high heels or handbag that we often overlook one very important aspect: underwear. The right bra can make all the difference to how your outfit looks – and how you feel. Whether you're looking for invisible support or a bra that will enhance your silhouette, lingerie can boost your confidence even when it's not on show.
So how do you find the perfect underpinnings for your festive finery?
JD Williams' fashion stylist Antonia Kraskowski talks us through her six top lingerie tips for party season...
1. Go for regular bra fittings: "To keep your bra fitting well, make sure to get regularly measured by a professional – every six months ideally – as even small changes in weight can make your bra size fluctuate.
"A well-fitting bra, particularly if you're full busted, will not only make your top half look great but it could also help alleviate back pain and improve posture."
2. Coverage is key: "The right bra is essential to form the perfect underpinning to your look and there's a wealth of styles to consider," Kraskowski says, but don't make the mistake of going for style over support.
"If you're full-busted, a style with more coverage is great as it will stop any overspill or bumps from forming."
Joanna Hope Velour Flock Padded Balcony Bra, £12 (was £20); Velour Flock Midi Briefs, £10.50 (were £14), JD Williams
3. Choose the right shape for your outfit: "If your dress or top has a deep V front, make sure your assets look their best with a plunge bra. This style is cut lower at the front to stop it showing.
"If you're going for a one shoulder or Bardot neckline don't be afraid to go for a strapless foundation.
"While many assume that this doesn't apply over a B cup, there are plenty of bras that will help keep you supported without straps – look for styles with silicone edging to help them stay put as you party."
No. 1 Jenny Packham Light Pink Foiled Lace Underwired Padded Push Up Bra, £22.40 (was £28), Debenhams
4. Boost your bust: "At the other end of the scale, if you're looking to add some va-va-voom to your evening look, a padded bra will help to boost your assets. "Look for styles where you can vary the level of assistance for different outfit needs with removable padding or pockets for chicken fillets."
5. Choose a colour carefully: "Don't forget that the colour of your foundation is important. While a white bra may seem like the sensible choice for under a white blouse, it is actually more visible as it will contrast against your skin.
"Equally, black under a black outfit can show up under the flash of a camera as you're capturing the fun of the party.
"For a fail-safe lingerie solution, go for nude under most colours unless the fabric of your outfit is truly opaque such as sequins, velvet or a metallic finish."
6. Experiment with tones and textures: That doesn't mean that lingerie has to be dull – a little flash of coloured lace can be just as fun, so don't be afraid to swap out classic colours for warm peach tones or vibrant shades of blue.
"Or why not try a luxury fabric such as velvet? When you know that what you're wearing underneath your outfit looks good, you'll feel even more confident as you step out this festive season."
Rosie for Autograph Silk & Lace Spot Padded Plunge Bra, £28, Marks and Spencer
