With some of the year’s most anticipated events around the corner, what better time to start getting that holiday budget going? Can you believe lights are up and the carols have already started? Before you know it, the smell of Christmas pudding will be in the air and the season will be in full swing.
I’ve put together a few looks and style tips using some of the season’s trends to inspire your holiday style and help you end the year and ring in 2013 with a bang! Let your outfit express your mood. Do not be afraid to get dressed up. With that said, let’s get started!
Black and White Suiting
A blazer is a sophisticated cover up. Use it to express how powerful yet feminine you are. For an elongated neckline keep it buttoned as low as possible without revealing too much. For those who don’t mind a little edge, make your look more trendy and pair it with acid wash high-waist denim cut-off shorts; and what better way to complete this look than with the biggest colour of the season red/crimson? Make it the new black for Christmas and add a little colour in your life. OK, maybe not the new black, but you get the drift.
A splash of red lips, vintage-inspired chunky heels, gold accessories and an envelope clutch will give you just the right amount of pop. For makeup, go with gold-tone eye shadow, a dark liner, and mascara to enhance the eyes and lashes; and a darker blush to deepen/contour your cheeks.
TIP: to save money, revamp a pair of old jeans and turn them into cut-off’s.
Contrasting Collars
If you’re adventurous like me, and looking for something new to add to your wardrobe, try one of the season’s biggest trends; collars. To make a collar stand out, it has to contrast with your outfit. The most popular contrast is black or white or vice versa, allowing the collar to really pop. Studs and spikes are also a big trend so why not combine the two. Whether you prefer lace, jewels, spikes, and/or studs, there’s a collar to suit anyone’s style. To achieve this look, purchase a detachable collar (available at Alter Ego) which you can wear with different looks or simply purchase a blouse or dress with a bright built-in collar. Give your look some edge and try smokey eyes and nude, red or bubble or rose pink lips depending on the colour scheme of your collar-based look.
A contrasting collar is also a simple way of making anything you’re wearing a bit more polished. Paired with mustard skinny pants or distressed boyfriend fit jeans, look like a woman on a mission with a gold oversized watch, bracelet and large knobs. Blue pointed toe or oxford flats give this look a little edge for a night cap with the girls. Go for neutral golden tones for the eyes and add depth with a dark blue or black eyeliner. Finish with light pink or nude-pink lips.
TIP: If you’re a DIY girl like myself, purchase a few spikes or studs and you’re on your way to making your own custom collar! Bedazzle something old or new from your own closet. Now that’s fashion on a budget!
Corporate Christmas
You’ve worked hard all year ’round. It’s the season to celebrate your accomplishments. Lots of companies use this time to give back to employees. An office holiday party can be your perfect outlet to shine-if you look the part! Ladies, we all know this may be the chance to give a preview of what else is in your wardrobe, but it’s easy for us to get in trouble when we have too many options. DON’T GET TOO SEXY. Don’t lose sight of the fact it is still business event and you should maintain a level of professionalism. I’m not saying you should wear an ankle-length dress or skirt, though depending on the style may be very stylish. But at the same time, NOBODY wants their undergarments to be Monday morning’s gossip over coffee.
Black and white always works very well but don’t be afraid to switch it up. Try stripes or a funky yet classy print as seen on the yellow brush-stroke print dress (PICTURED above). Throw in a pair of red shoes! Every woman should own a pair.
Looking to take your career to the next level, go for classy confidence. Your boss may be looking to see how you act in social situations. It shows when you feel confident and powerful. Showing up in inappropriately dressed will make you feel self-conscious. You won’t talk to as many people, and you’ll have to rise above your outfit. Let your style speak for itself.
ALTER EGO: Edge vs. Class
Holiday parties give you the best opportunity to dress up. I have many moods as I’m sure you do too. Before channeling inspiration for your look, know the mood, time of day, class and target of the event. Daydreams, Osmosis, Soiree, Big Cups, and Frenchmen are just a few of the season’s most anticipated events. Whether you’re heading to one of these or some other event, a metallic statement piece can help make your outfit an eye turner. For the record, stay away from metallic leggings please. Whatever makes you feel celebratory, channel that through your look and use it as an excuse to experiment. In moderation, of course.
It’s a no to layer on every possible holiday colour. Choose one really great piece as the highlight and build your look around it-whether it’s clothing, shoes, or accessories such as a vintage earrings or a headpiece. Heck, it could be your nails! Do your research. Don’t go too edgy for a cocktail party or corporate event. However you do want to appear stylish yet classy.
So in whatever you do, be bold. Be free. Be stylish!
Happy Holidays!!
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