Black lace is back, and this party season it’s more glam than flashy… Chic way to show a little flesh

Some trends lend themselves perfectly to the festive season, with a softness that rivals the first seasonal sip of Bailey’s. Others are less tasty.

Take black lace, a divisive material in most women’s books. If you do it wrong, you risk looking like an over-dressed 80s throwback. If you do it right, no one would ever dream of invoking Cyndi Lauper or Cher.

This season, the fabric has undergone a sophisticated makeover so compelling that even those who hate black, lace, or anything remotely sheer will have reason to reconsider their position. In countless incarnations, whether you’re a Little Black Dress fan or someone whose taste leans more towards androgynous, High Street has crafted a style to suit every budget and taste.

Few colors look as chic as black. But during the festive season it can look a bit sloppy. However, black lace is anything but. Just like a print, it gives an outfit something interesting. Black lace is also a clever way to show some flesh while providing a degree of camouflage.

Dare to bare as much or as little as you want, knowing that this fabric will protect your back – as well as your arms and legs.

Velvet va-va voom

This classically elegant dress from LK Bennett will last for seasons thanks to its versatile fit and flared shape. In addition to the flattering mid-calf length and feminine cap sleeves, it is a distillation of two trends in one: black velvet and black lace. Perfect for the indecisive, or for those who like more bang for their buck, it’s ultra-subtle and the lace look means it will be a long-term party essential.

Festive flares with V-neck

A jumpsuit may not be the first item that comes to mind as a party outfit, but this stylish black lace one from Zara adds a dose of festive flair to daytime style. The wide leg trousers are universally flattering, while the deep lace V at the front is subtly seductive. If you don’t like heels, this would look just as good with flats.

Jumpsuit, £79.99, zara.com; earrings, £28, orelia.co.uk; earrings, £79, daisyjewellery.com; ring, £38, orelia.co.uk; ring, £125, daisyjewellery.com

Mini maybe

Miniskirts are a big runway trend this season, but you don’t have to go super short to get the look. This chic lace John Lewis dress has a flattering mid-thigh length, but looks shorter thanks to the flowing ruffles. An opaque underlay makes this a modest take on the lace trend, while the sleeves provide good coverage of the arms while still showing some flesh.

Dress, £139, johnlewis.com; shoes, £325, russellandbromley.com; earrings, £28, orelia.co.uk; earrings, £79, daisyjewellery.com; ring, £38, orelia.co.uk; ring, £125, daisyjewellery.com

Optical illusion

If you want to make a statement this party season, look no further than this black lace column dress from Mint Velvet. The asymmetrical shoulder is guaranteed to attract attention, as is the optical illusion created by the peach underlay. It may look transparent, but the wearer can be assured that she is revealing nothing more than the panties underneath.

Dress, £229, mintvelvet.com; shoes, £, website.com; earrings, £28, orelia.co.uk; earrings, £79, daisyjewellery.com; ring, £38, orelia.co.uk; ring, £125, daisyjewellery.com

Show some leg in a maxi

There’s more than a trace of Grace Kelly in this sophisticated dress, thanks to the simple, chic neckline and slim arms. It would work well with a statement necklace or statement earrings. The ultra-simple, understated bodice flows into a cascade of lace and draws attention to the legs, which peek seductively from below. Those who want less exposure can wear it with semi-opaque or colored tights.

Dress, £89, albaray.com; shoes, £275, russellandbromley.com; earrings, £28, orelia.co.uk; earrings, £79, daisyjewellery.com; ring, £38, orelia.co.uk; ring, £125, daisyjewellery.com

Time to take a bow

The bow of this River Island dress gives it a polished look that cleverly plays on the seedier connotations of black lace. The diamond-effect buttons snaking down the front also add a point of interest, livening up the hue and providing a welcome dose of festive sparkle. Slim-fit sleeves, which fall to the elbow, provide elegant coverage.

Dress, £75, riverisland.com, shoes, £130, boden.co.uk; earrings, £28, orelia.co.uk; earrings, £79, daisyjewellery.com; ring, £38, orelia.co.uk; ring, £125, daisyjewellery.com