STYLE STOP
By Linda Peavy
Want to dress chic and comfortably for the holidays, whether going to your office party or evening affair? These ideas will make dressing through the holidays a breeze. Show up in style all season.
Elegant Evening Wear
Rebecca Vallance Zelda Sequin Gown
Puff-shoulder bodysuit
Consider luxurious fabrics for formal holiday parties or New Year’s Eve events. Want a change from dresses? Think great blouses and pants.
- Sequined Dresses: A long-sleeve, sequined dress in rich colors like burgundy, navy, or emerald is timeless.
- Silk Blouses and Wide-Leg Pants: For a chic, comfortable ensemble, combine a silk or satin blouse with a pair of high-waisted, wide-leg trousers. Jumpsuits are also in order.
Sophisticated Daywear
Red Karen Miller sweater
For family gatherings or holiday brunches:
- Cashmere Sweaters and Midi-Skirts: Try a soft cashmere sweater paired with a pleated or A-line midi-skirt for warmth and style. Complete the look with knee-high boots.
- Structured Blazers: A well-tailored blazer over a festive top, paired with tailored trousers or a pencil skirt, creates a smart-casual look.
For casual meet-ups or holiday shopping:
- Stylish Knitwear: A festive-patterned knit sweater or cardigan paired with comfortable leggings looks and feels great. Add a touch of sparkle with a brooch or statement necklace.
- Layered Outfits: A colorful shirt under a sweater vest can be paired with dark jeans and ankle boots to provide comfort and holiday flair.
Sexy But Chic
faux leather trousers
Make the transition from day to evening with exotic fun pairings.
- Animal Print Pants: Go wild with a playful animal print on pants paired with a solid oversized blouse.
- Go Faux: Wear the hot-trend faux leather and choose a rich green shade to shake things up.
Accessories to Elevate Any Look
- Statement Jewelry: Chunky necklaces, elegant earrings or cocktail rings can elevate even the simplest outfits.
- Bright Handbag: Ditch the black and go with a bright color to complement your outfit and light up the night.
Footwear and Comfort
- Stylish Kitten Heels and Ballet Flats: For those who prioritize comfort but still want a fabulous look, opt for elegant kitten heels, ballet flats, or low-heeled boots in unique colors.
Tips for Special Sizes
Tall Women: Highlight Vertical Lines and Proportions
- Longer Hemlines: Embrace dresses and skirts that showcase your height, such as maxi dresses or long, flowing skirts that hit just above the ankle.
- High-Waisted Pants: Try high-waisted trousers or palazzo pants, which can make the legs appear even longer and flatter your frame.
- Statement Sleeves: Rock the new statement sleeves, such as bell or bishop styles, which balance the proportions for your taller frame.
For Petite Women: Enhance Proportions and Create Illusions
- Monochrome Outfits: Consider wearing monochrome outfits, which create an unbroken line that can visually elongate your stature.
- Empire Waists and High-Rise Bottoms: Shop dresses and skirts with empire waists or high-rise pants that can make the legs appear longer.
- Scaled Accessories: Choose accessories proportionate to your frame—smaller handbags, belts and delicate jewelry can be more flattering than oversized options.
Plus Women: Dress for your Body Shape to Get a Fabulous Fit
- Pear: Think Fit-n-Flare, A-Line, or Peplum Styles, Straight Cut Pants, and Chunky Necklaces
- Apple: Wrap and Ruche Dresses, Tops, Attractive Prints, and Flare or Wide-Leg Pants
- Hourglass: Fitted clothes, Bodycon, Mermaid and Pencil Dresses
- Banana: Fit–N–Flare, A-Line, or Peplum Styles and Wide Belts
