Make the Holidays Sparkle

Winter is a great time to incorporate a little sparkle and shine into your looks. From Office Holiday Parties, to Ugly Sweater Parties to New Year’s Eve shenanigans, you’ll have plenty of opportunities this winter to step out in style. But, with all the sparkle you have to choose from, it’s important to exercise moderation. You don’t want to look like the gaudy Christmas Tree ornament your niece gave you, but you also don’t want to under accessorize.

Don’t fear. We’re here to help.

Holiday Parties Done Right

Unless you’re going to an Ugly Sweater Party, the holidays are a great opportunity to don a nice outfit with shining accessories and go sip some eggnog. Whether you’re gathering with family, coworkers or friends, a simple but glamorous outfit will always do the trick.

Start with a timeless piece, like a black pencil skirt and pair  it with subdued tones and layers. A shimmery tank in nude underneath a light sweater or blazer in a similar shade will give your pencil skirt a relaxed feel. A decorative belt and scarf will add a quirky touch.

Incorporate a little holiday cheer with red earrings, a red clutch, and red lipstick. Choose a fun cocktail ring, jewel toned makeup, decorative tights and black pumps or wedges to round off your outfit. With this mix of casual and dressy, quirky and classic, you’ll be good to go for just about any party winter throws your way!

Hanging With The Fam

For a relaxing evening at home, you’ll want to be comfortable, but look great for the camera. When you look at the pictures next year, and every year after, you don’t want to be perpetually caught in your ten-year-old flannel jammies.

For a look that’s relaxing but stylish, try a simple stretch jean with a loose boyfriend cardigan in a festive color. Drape an infinity scarf around your neck and add a long necklace to the mix as well. Add vintage-inspired earrings and a sparkly diamond ring to dress up the outfit just a bit.

Since you’ll probably be relaxing indoors most of the day, break out your fun winter-themed socks and pair them with casual military boots. Use nude make up tones as a base with a dark eye shadow thrown in and top off with red lipstick to make your smile pop in each picture. You’ll photograph much better than in those flannel pants!

New Year’s Eve

New Year’s Eve is the perfect time to pull out all the stops and wow all of your friends without going over the top. A simple black dress serves as a timeless, flattering foundation for a great look. Glam up your dress with dazzling accessories like diamond rings, snazzy belts, decorative tights, draping necklaces and colorful earrings. A pair of black suede booties will ground your outfit and you can use bright red, statement lipstick and a smoky eye to breathe life into the entire look.

With these few great looks, you’ll be ready to navigate all of this holiday season’s gatherings, parties and nights out on the town!

Who says winter can’t be fun?

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

Tagged as: christmas, fashion, holiday, new year's eve, special occasion, style