Whatever the usual excuses you use to get out of attending parties, they won't work for the party season, after all you've had twelve months notice.

Rather than looking for excuses to get out of it let us show you how to look great this party season.

It really is simpler than you think, just follow our simple tips on how to look great this party season you'll be happy you made the effort.

How to Look Great this Party Season - What Not to Wear.

When it comes to the party season, how to look great can be difficult for a number of reasons, not least the sudden deluge in invites. There is the office party, the family party and socialising with friends.

This could mean anything upwards of three outfits.

Do you opt for one outfit with different accessories hoping you won't bump into the same people at different events, or do you buy a different outfit for each party?

The biggest mistake most women make is to choose a style that is blatantly not for them.

Just because a dress is in the store does not mean it's for you.

How to Look Great this Party Season - Things to Remember

Whether choosing clothes so you can look great for the party season, or choosing outfits for any other time of the year, looking great means choosing an outfit that suits you and reflects your sense of style.

It is possible to be fashionable without being a slave to fashion, just remember these golden rules.

- If you want to look great this party season, remember - less is more. Less make up, less jewellery, less everything. Don't be tempted to wear blue eye shadow with that red party dress just because you've worn it everyday for the last twenty years.

Choose a theme and stick to it, if your favourite piece of jewellery doesn't compliment your chosen outfit, don't wear it.

- Make sure the outfit you select suits the occasion.

- When selecting a party outfit, make sure you feel comfortable in it.

If you feel uncomfortable in front of your dressing mirror and keep hiking the bust line up or the hem line down, well - draw your own conclusions!

- Make an effort even if you think no one expects you to.

How to Look Great this Party Season - Choosing the Right Outfit

While there is no denying the visual impact of the little black dress, why not be bold this party season and go for something different.

Red is a very popular choice for Christmas and guaranteed to make you stand out in the crowd.

If you're not ready to be quite so bold, then gold is a rich sumptuous alternative, ideal for creating that sophisticated look.

If you do have to wear the same outfit more than once, you can change the look by choosing different shoes, handbag and accessories to compliment. Throwing a contrasting coloured shawl over your shoulders is also an excellent way to change the look of your outfit.

Don't forget your lingerie. Nothing lets down a stunning outfit more than ill fitting linger. It's Christmas, so if necessary, splash out.

Take extra care with your hair and make up, now might be a good time to try out that hair style you've been thinking about. And if you're already at the salon, why not pick up some tips on applying your makeup.

How to Look Great this Party Season - Outerwear

So you've got the fabulous outfit. Don't spoil it by covering it in that old coat you've had for years.

When you enter a room with your outdoor wear, this is where you make your first impression. What is that coat going to say about you?

Make an effort with every layer, from your coat, to your dress, right down to your lingerie. Make sure your partner knows you look as good out of your dress as you do in it!