Speaking of parties, we're approaching that ho, ho, ho festive time of year, when fun frocks are in order. Inspired by the eye-popping prints outside the shows during Paris Fashion Week (above), I'm thinking of going all out in playful patterns, rather than ho-hum solid hues. Some party-perf options include this spotted Red Valentino, this monochromatic BCBG, this edgy Givenchy (80% off!), this geometric Topshop, this floral Alice + Olivia, this python-print Michael Kors, this checked French Connection and this graphic Stella McCartney.

Photo: Giovanna Battaglia