The holiday period can be an awkward time for many. Extended family gatherings with people you barely know, random first dates and work Christmas parties where you need to dress to impress. The lovely people from Alice Euphemia in Melbourne have given us their guide to dressing for these events so that you can avoid any unnecessary strange stares across the room.

1. Best outfit for a first date:
Lover lace bodice $455
Kahlo Thomas Culottes $200
Melanie Rice Copper Enamel Bangles $140-$165
Romance Was Born Zip Purse $80
Australis nail polish in Valentine $8

Who could resist you in this hot combo? The short culottes teamed with the high neck of the lace bodice is a good mix of flirty and demure. It doesn’t give too much away. The Melanie Rice bangles add a nice splash of colour to the outfit and the purse is just the right size to fit all the essentials. Complete the look with a lick of red nail polish by Australis – we think ‘Valentine’ is an appropriate colour (and title) for your hot date.

2. Best awkward family outfit
Livia Arena Loxton Dress $375

A classic little number that won’t attract too many death stares from your Granny across the room. Wedding-christening-bar/batmitzvah appropriate, this little linen dress ticks all the boxes and isn’t too delicate to dry clean if your crazy old Aunt has a slip up on the dance floor and spills her white wine spritzer all over you. Lucy Folk’s food inspired taco friendship bracelets match any outfit and are a good conversation starter, especially if your awkward family gathering is Mexican themed!

3. Best party outfit
Romance Was Born Tunic Dress $470
Anna Davern Rock Earrings $180

A total party starter. Short, bright, and easily noticed – even from the other side of the dance floor. Jazz it up with a pair of oversized ‘diamond’ earrings and trip the light fantastic ‘til the sun comes up.

All items available from Alice Euphemia, and online at links provided. Happy Holidays!