‘Tis the season to be seen and present at many activities all wrapped up in festive style! This year we’re traveling, dining with family and friends, celebrating with various organizations, and socializing in full swing!  Since you’re more visible during the holidays, why not step out with the confidence of knowing you’re among the best dressed at the event. Commanding the room with your captivating style makes you unforgettable, a great start to the new year.

Many invitations suggest festive attire which means a combination of cocktail clothes with holiday flair which emphasizes the use of specific colors, patterns, and textiles to tap into the holiday vibe.  Red and green, the classic colors, are hard to pull off without looking like an elf, or a tree! Gold, silver, and white are more wearable and glamorous options and can be adapted to suit all skin tones. Wear sequins, velvet, cashmere, jewel tones, tartan, corduroy, tweed, and lots of sparkles and glitter for fun.

Here are some perfect festive options:

• Dress- A cocktail dress is the most common choice.  A “little black dress” is traditional but select something unique with interesting details, like a textured fabric, or jewel-tone colors to stand out in the crowd.  Avoid floor-length dresses that may be too formal; a dress that falls just above or just below the knee is perfect!
• Tops:  Select a unique holiday top in a sumptuous fabric such as lace, silk, or chiffon to instantly elevate your look. An embellished beaded or sparkly sweater or blouse is perfect, too. A more delicate fabric is dressier, so avoid anything heavy or chunky. Luxe details like drapey or sheer sleeves, a wrap front gives a holiday vibe.
• Skirts: Mini, midi, or maxi skirts in lux fabrics like jacquard, velvet, or that sparkle make the A-list!
• Pants: Think luxurious fabrics – velvet, metallic, sequins, plaids, lace, brocade etc… Also, there is a variety of styles from wide legged, flare, palazzo, jeans, leggings etc… Soft-flowing, wide legs pants are perfect for holiday parties. They are super comfy and make you look relaxed and sophisticated. Keep them long, so you get that long skirt look. Metallic jeans that remind me of foil gift wrap, are fun!
• Shoes:  Heels are best—anything from red pumps to glittery extra-high heels. Since it’s winter, a pair of decorative, heeled booties or tall boots are also a great option.
• Layers: If it’s cold outside, add a jeweled cardigan, blazer, or statement coat to keep you cozy. Opaque tights are another option to keep warm.
• Jewelry: Add the bling with bold statement pieces like fun earrings, bib necklaces, or shiny metallic bracelets.
• Purse:  A sparkly clutch will make you look extra dressy and festive. Also, a cross body bag frees your hands to hold a glass of wine.
• Hair Accessories: Headbands, barrettes, rhinestone bobby pins, and bows can dress up a regular ponytail or braid like ornaments on a Christmas tree. Hair accessories are versatile, and the same piece can easily create multiple looks. Having a bad hair day? Throw it up in a trendy claw clip or grab a headband to keep it off your and you’re still making a fashion statement.
• Lip Color: A festive red lip always in style, especially for the mistletoe kiss.  For a modern twist on this classic, use a berry red shade.  Deeper reds send a wintery vibe and one with a sheen finish will be flattering by adding fullness to fine lips. Let’s give lots of hugs and kisses this holiday season!

How are you spending your holidays? Do you have a favorite look, or will you be trying something new? Since my birthday is Christmas Eve, I have many accessories with the holiday motif that add fun to my outfits. This year, I’ll be traveling to a much colder climate which requires more planning and layering to stay warm. It will feel more like the Christmas I grew up with in New York.

May your holidays be merry and bright!