Party season always sneaks up, but this year's invites seem to be rolling in even earlier than ever. And between Aotearoa's unpredictable weather at this time of year, the broad spectrum of 'partying' (dance floor, dinner, house party) and the fact that not everyone wants dresses and stilettos, we know that there is no one-size-fits-all formula when it comes to party dressing. So we've selected some ensembles that match our own party personalities, to inspire your own celebratory season: whether you're a comfort-first introvert, maximalist who loves a loud room, or somewhere in between.

LOW-KEY GLOW

It’s always fun to have an excuse to dress up and end of year celebrations are just that, from pre-Christmas catch-ups to birthdays (I’m December 18!) and a New Year’s Eve fancy lunch (a newish tradition for us). The shiny satin and sequins of these Rebe and Paris Georgia pieces say ‘party’ but the silhouettes are pure practicality: a combo I love, and my party girl style summed up. I’d throw on the all-black ensemble with some touches of gold, through beauty and accessories (and non-alcholoic wine) – functional, and festive. – Zoe Walker Ahwa

Paris Georgia sequin T-shirt, $490

Rebe satin mini skirt, $295

Swedish Stockings 30 denier tights, $56, from Underlena

Bared Footwear ballet flats, $329

Saben sunglasses, $249

Coach Gold parfum, from $113

Meadowlark gold plated ear cuff, $205

Half Magic ‘Holy Goldie’ Glitterpill Glitter Eye Paint & Liner, $49

Non3 Toasted Cinnamon & Yuzu, $39

BOLD PATTERN AND FUN

Going out is a great excuse to take your cutest bag out on the town! This TSN x Caitlin Snell collab is perfect; practically sized, very Ensemble and great for those of us that can’t be trusted with hair bows but still want the cuteness of them. I’d pop in a portable charger, hair pin, papaw, and my film camera, locked and loaded (because what better time is there to take photos of beautiful friends and great outfits?). This pattern (by Ōtepoti-based artist Priscilla Rose Howe) on Jimmy D’s classic slip looks both comfy and festive, depicting everything I’m manifesting for the sunnier months; revelry, connection and yum seafood. Dying for some mussels now… perfect to pair with a gin and tonic.

Jimmy D dress, $625

Isabella Anselmi sandal heels, $249

Ruby hair pin, $25

Sugar earrings, $67

Twenty seven names x Caitlin Snell bag, $290

Splendid film roll, $35

Dancing Sands gin, $75

MONOCHROME WITH POPS OF COLOUR

As an introverted homebody nothing screams ‘you’re leaving the house’ more than a golden glow on the cheeks and bright red lips. It’s my social failsafe! The Emma Lewisham mineral glow gives me the sunkissed look I’m after, while also providing me with SPF50 (important!) and this Violette_Fr red lipstick is the very best there is, I will fight you on it. I’ve long wanted one of Harris Tapper’s sheer skirts and this season’s textured tulle is possibly even better than last season’s lace. Of course, you need a good nana knicker underneath, and one of Rory William Docherty’s truly art-worthy sparkly shirts. I never wear heels but Deadly Ponies make the most comfortable shoes, and I bet this mule is easy to wear. And this is making me want to get the party started, stat! – Rebecca Wadey