The other day, I was talking to my sister about work holiday parties. She wasn’t sure what to wear because time was short between the end of the work day and the party.
Should she wear her daytime work outfit and dress it up for the party?
Should she bring a cocktail dress to change into instead?
What should she do?
Knowing her, she’ll bring all her options to work just in case. But it got me thinking, how can you make an outfit transition from day to night for the holiday season?
The Day Look
I selected a simple velvet dress to illustrate. (It’s for sale by the way.)
During the day, bare arms aren’t always welcomed, so I paired a long cardigan/duster with the dress. Some simple accessories keeps it looking classic and elegant. With flowy, flirty skirts and dresses, I like to add transparent tights instead of opaque ones to lighten the outfit.
In case you were wondering, these are my real glasses.
Outfit Details: Urban Outfitters long cardigan – XS, AZ.U.R. Los Angeles velvet dress – M (I’m selling it here) , Forever 21 tights, Pearl necklace (mom’s), Claire’s pearl earrings, Aldo pumps
The Night Look
It’s not a dramatic change, but swapping accessories and applying a bolder makeup look makes a world of difference.
A statement necklace, a red lip, and satin peeptoe turns this simple dress into a great holiday outfit. Plus the dress is warm, comfortable, and you don’t have to worry about wardrobe malfunctions. I love it when the dress gives me the freedom to move about without feeling confined or exposed.
And what’s a holiday party without a gift?
Since the winner of the Madewell necklace did not claim her prize, the new winner is…Nathalie B!
Outfit Details: AZ.U.R. velvet dress, Madewell necklace, Forever 21 tights, Valentino peeptoe pumps
Click below to see more photos! =)
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{ 22 comments… read them below or add one }
Just wanted to let you know that I tagged you in my Seven Secrets post. Let’s see what you’ll reveal!
Ooh great day to night look. Practical AND chic. Nice work!
I love your poses and facial expressions in these pictures, and gorgeous dress (velvet is so en vogue this season).
@Simple Subtle Style: Thanks! =)
@Good Girl Gone Blog: I love it when clothes work for multiple occasions…it makes it more versatile!
@Elle: Thanks! It helps to have someone behind the camera for a change to give me more ideas about poses and things. And I agree, velvet is everywhere! =)
I love the first pic! You look so pretty!!!
And those pumps are so gorgeous!
I love these poses! You are too cute, Jess
You wear both outfits so wonderfully. Perfect accessories really do make a world of difference!
I love love love your green Valentino pumps! So chic!
@ReallyPetite: Thanks! =)
@Cee: I try to keep doing different poses to keep things interesting. Accessories are a great addition to complete the look of an outfit.
@Alternations Needed: Thanks! The Valentinos were a great find at the DecadesTwo shoe sale! =)
Oh I love this! Wonderful transition from day to night and I’m enjoying the red lipstick carried over from your holiday challenge look. I’d love to see more closeup photos of those gorgeous green Valentinos! Did you get them at DecadesTwo in person or one of their hautelook sales?
I got the Valentinos in person last year at the DecadesTwo shoe sale for $100 and it looked brand new too! I had to wait in line for 2 hrs to get in the store, but it was worth it because there weren’t many people looking for size 5.5/6 shoes. =)
Gorgeous outfit and great pictures. I love the from day to night transition. Oh the two pairs of pumps are both very stylish. The color of the wall is such a great color for your background. Your photos are studio quality now.
You are the master of posing! I think you did an amazing job turning the outfit from day to night – you should make this a Petite Fashion Challenge!
Such gorgeous, gorgeous looks! The Valentino shoes are TO DIE FOR and your makeup is flawless. Why are you so pretty?????
@Vicky: Thanks! I love the color of my walls since gives a warmer feel to the photos than plain white walls. =)
@SewPetiteGal: Thanks! I think I’m far from being a “master” but I am getting better with posing and being in front of the camera. As for the PFC, I”m sure I’ll come up with something grand when it’s my turn to host!
@Shannon: You totally made my day! Thanks for your compliments! I just try to keep everything understated and elegant. And really, it’s my photographer that makes me look good! =)
Wow! That velvet dress looks gorgeous on you!
Great transition from day to night! The necklace really does bring it into the evening!
I can’t believe how much a necklace and cardigan can change a look. You look absolutely gorgeous and holiday-ready in that velvet dress! (I’ll admit… i’m one of those people who are intimidated by velvet and I think you wear it insanely well.)
great transition! it’s amazing how much accessories really pull together a look. and i love how you amped up your makeup too! beautiful!
these pictures and poses are so darling. you’re the classic holiday party hostess!
<3 angie
Pandaphilia
LOL that second picture is so cute!
the velvet dress looks real pretty on you =)
@Michelle: Thanks! I’m learning about the power of accessories…little things really make a difference.
@Katrina: I think anyone can pull off velvet, but it takes time to find a great piece that flatters you well.
@Kileen: Thanks! I’m not a huge makeup person, but every once in a while, I step it up.
@Angie: Thanks! I love playing hostess…if only I had a great place to show off! =)
@Annie: Thanks! I love the velvet dress too1 =)
You look so lovely, I really like both looks, especially your make-up! I was just thinking that PAG would be all over those olive pumps… and looks like I was right!
How cute are all your pictures!? …..and your hair is looking fab!!