A straight or relaxed cut. Tapered waists are the most common regret, because the garment spends most of the day in a chair rather than standing. Stiff fabrics also crease across the lap and dig at the waist.

No. This is an indoor, heated-house occasion, so weather is irrelevant. That is unusual for a late-November date and it changes the whole brief.

Darker or patterned grounds. Pale solid colours show everything. If something is spilled, treat it promptly with cold water rather than hot, since heat sets protein and grease stains.

Yes. Everyone is within about two metres of you and there will be photographs, so fine linework and small text are visible. Bold graphics designed to read at distance are wasted indoors.

Usually. Late November opens a five-week run of gatherings, so most people wear the same piece several times before the season ends.

Inside out and cool, to protect the print. Deal with any stain before the wash rather than relying on the machine to lift it.

Yes. Mugs and other kitchen and table pieces sit in the home and living range and often share motifs with the clothing.