It’s that time of year again! The air has an undeniable chill to it, turtlenecks are back in vogue, and jewelry stores boast amazing deals for your loved ones.
That’s right…the holiday season is bearing down upon us!
For some, this means several weeks of sheer panic and debilitating confusion – but not for the savvy stylista. Read on for holiday shopping tips that are sure to wow your friends and family while inspiring and improving their fashion sense.
My mom dresses too young—or too old—for her age
I think most moms make questionable fashion choices from time-to-time. After all, unless they are OCD and sporadically clean out their closet every year, they likely have decades’ worth of styles to choose from, thus increasing the likelihood of a mistake à la mode.
Pair a smart turtleneck dress with a pair of high-heeled, knee-high boots for a look that is classy and just a touch sexy; or mix and match a barely-pink silk blouse with a black pencil skirt, black seed beads necklace, and black heels. If you prefer to buy separate items, you can’t go wrong with this Burberry coat, or buy a scarf in a delectable shade of orange.
My cousin reveals too much
Sometime in the Nineties, women lost sight of what was feminine and sexy, in favor of skimpy and gauche. If you know someone who has fallen prey to plunging necklines and skintight everything, show her that she can be sensual without having it all on display.
Replace miniskirts with this beautiful cross front mock turtleneck, wide-leg velvet pants, and black pumps with nude studded straps; or show her what sophisticated sexy looks like in a Lourdes’ wrapped ruched front dress and black pumps, with a demure basket weave shawl. Finally, this cashmere turtleneck sweater, croc-embossed leather pencil skirt, and knee-high boot combo will cover every inch of skin while showing off every single curve.
My man is clueless about fashion
I have a fiancé who is delightful in every way…except for his fashion taste! Rather than buy him a CD or pair of aviator sunglasses, why not spruce up his college-era wardrobe?
For the relaxed fella: Converse’s hooded pullover and skinny cords are as laid back as he is. If you prefer the rebellious look, check out these jeans, and top them with a black leather jacket and—if you’re feeling especially daring—accessorize with this leather cuff bracelet. Finally, if you’re bringing your guy home to meet the folks, or are planning a night out on the town, you can’t go wrong with a classic suit and tie, with these snazzy shoes.
My friend only wears black
Face it…she’s your BFF and black will always be chic, so why change her? In order to help her avoid looking like Lydia from Beetlejuice, add a touch of color here and there, while still maintaining the integrity of her favorite color scheme.
This Nomad Vintage Inspired Fair Trade Lace Dress is serious and sexy at the same time, and when you add open-toe pumps and a simple strand of Akoya pearls, you have a darling outfit that will be suitable to any occasion. If your bud has an edgy streak, check out this leather trench dress, leather wrap necklace, and daring stilettos. If you insist upon introducing color into your pal’s wardrobe, be subtle with this red and black dress and black heels, and accessorize with a simple bracelet. If you love her wardrobe and just want to add to her growing jewelry collection, check out these adorable Betsey Johnson Glitter Critter earrings, or go for glam with ruby earrings.
Alexa Thomason is a graduate student in Chicago who spends her free time browsing vintage stores, traveling, and creating art. She contributes at http://www.artroommelody.com – blogging about creative inspirations and trends. Keep up with her on Twitter: @lexathomason
{ 3 comments… read them below or add one }
i am loving that sweater dress in the first look and the whole last look!
Is it a bad sign that I love all of the clothes in the first “mom” look?
Not at all! Each look doesn’t have an age attached to it…you just like sophisticated outfits! =)