Time is flying, and before we know it, we’ll be sitting down to Christmas dinner with our nearest and dearest. With the festive party season fast approaching, you may be wondering how you’re going to let your hair down without breaking the bank. For most, this is the most expensive time of the year, and if you’ve got events to attend, you may be worried about your budget. The good news is that it’s possible to celebrate in style without spending a fortune. Here are some top tips to take on board for the holidays.

If you’ve got multiple events to attend, it’s a great idea to choose an outfit you can present in several different ways. This will save you from buying a new ensemble for every party. Take an LBD as an example. You could wear the dress with black shoes and a black bag for one event and then switch things up with a statement collar necklace, an embellished bag or sparkly shoes for the next party. You can add a printed blazer and flats for a slightly more casual occasion or throw a faux fur stole and statement boots on for an outdoor gathering. Look for versatile pieces and accessories that will make your outfits unique. It’s also a great idea to subscribe to your favorite stores at this time of year. Many shops and online retailers host sales on a regular basis to attract Christmas buyers, so you could save a significant amount of money on that dress or those shoes you’ve had your eye on.

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When you’ve spent money on an outfit, a meal and drinks, the last thing you want is to fork out a fortune to get home. If you’re going to a party with friends or colleagues, arrange lifts home in advance. You could split the cost of a minivan or a coach. If you’re flying solo, check out discounts online and make use of offers like an Uber promo code. Alternatively, you could look into public transport links near the venue. It may be possible to use the subway or take a local train, but it’s a good idea to check timetables first.

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Saving on drinks

If you’re going to a Christmas party and drinks aren’t provided, you may find yourself spending a pretty penny on refreshments during the night. Party venues tend to hike prices during the festive period. If you do want to enjoy a few drinks, but you don’t want to spend a sizeable chunk of your salary, steer clear of cocktails, which tend to be very expensive, and shorts, which take seconds to drink. Beer tends to be a cheaper option, and you could save money by splitting the cost of a bottle of wine with a friend or ordering a few bottles for the table.

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Are you gearing up for the party season? If you’re looking forward to celebrating, but you’re anxious about the cost, hopefully, these tips will come in handy!