Step out in style: Laverne Turner-Manuel's essential festive fashion and beauty tips

THE festive season is officially upon us, and honey, we all know some of us cannot be rocking the same dress for every Christmas lunch and sundowner.

- BERNELEE VOLLMER

Lucky for us, fashion designer, content creator, and businesswoman Laverne Turner-Manuel is here to drop the tea and give us some sanity-saving style advice.

"The festive season usually has the most beautiful hot weather, so I love keeping my look light, bright and airy! An easy summery feel works wonders, short or maxi dresses, or shorts with a comfortable tee," Manuel shares.

Translation: stay cute, stay cool and don't roast in polyester.

After a long season of nudes and neutrals, colour is making a bold comeback, and we are here for it.

"Fashion is much more fun with beads and bold prints," Manuel says. This is your permission to finally dig out that bright kaftan, neon summer dress, or that quirky printed two-piece you've been too scared to wear.

Balancing style with comfort is always the Cape Town summer struggle. "Always keep your fabric light and your pieces versatile. That way, you can style up or down depending on your plans."

So yes, that cotton midi dress you love? Pair it with comfy flats for a day market stroll, then swop in block heels and a statement earring for an evening sundowner. Versatility is the name of the game.