At your best & brightest

The year-end parties are about to arrive and the last thing you want to worry about is how to dress. Right?

Related: The wow of qipao

No matter whether it is the annual office dinner, a family reunion, or a big night out, some decent accessories will definitely help.

My tip for accessories is: they should have a wow-effect.

Local flavors

The laser cut leather tote from Bally's spring/summer 2013 collection definitely has it. The tote can hold your keys, cosmetics and other small items, whereas in some totes they fall out. Its shiny color and weird shape make the tote stand out from the crowd and it was listed as one of the "weird bags from Milan Fashion Week".

For a small coin purse, choose Calvin Klein Jeans. The shiny material makes it perfect as a party accessory. It is contained in a Calvin Klein Jeans gift set, which has not only the coin bag, but also a bracelet and key ring. It is available in both pink and gold - perfect colors for major gatherings.

Sequins are a must at year-end parties. Stephanie Classic is a Brazilian footwear label that made its China debut at this year's Brazilian Footwear in Top Shoes and Fashion Accessories Beijing Expo. The biggest attraction is the combination of sequined gold and black stripes, which provide an elegant touch. It goes best with an eye-dazzling dark evening dress.

A pair of funky glasses should be de rigeur. Pop star Rihanna was snapped on the street in Prada Barque Optical glasses, which have a chic look because of the curved temple arms and a half-moon frame.

Rings always make you shine. The Venere collection, from the new gemstone jewelry label Ancient, features a white-gold ring, formed out of four leaves that fold together, with an emerald in the center. It is modern, yet still suitable for formal occasions.

Last but not least, you should prepare some cute gifts for parties.

Chocolates are always welcome. Godiva, which opened its global flagship store in Beijing's Sanlitun Village in November, offers a wide selection of festival gifts. Its Holiday Stocking with Bar Set and Holiday Milk Chocolate Tree with Snowflakes, were welcome during Christmas.

gantian@chinadaily.com.cn

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