Unwrapping your holiday style

[image from Real Simple]

Somehow, you've managed to walk past a million clothing store windows, ignored the dozens of magazines with images of party dresses, and suddenly, your big holiday bash is this weekend. Sound familiar?  Now, before you grab your purse and head out the door to frantically to find something to wear, here are a few things to keep in mind.

1) Start with your closet.  Take a good look at what you already have.  You may be surprised with what you find!  Simply by changing your jewelery, your shoes or even adding a touch of colour, can change the look of your little black dress and turn into a festive frock.  For more versatility, mix & match your separates.  Play with colour, pattern and texture.  Just think how great you'll feel when you tell your friends that you created the outfit with what you already had in your closet!

2) Make a list.  To avoid wondering aimlessly and feeling overwhelmed with the selection, make a list of 3 stores that have worked for you in the past and go to those first. Also, make a list of what you are looking for - a necklace, fitted blazer, long skirt. This will help you from getting side tracked.  

3) Don't buy the first thing you see.  You will need to give yourself some time. Try on a few items at one store - then walk away. Try another store, try on a few more pieces, and again walk away.  Now is not the time to experiment! The last thing you need is another holiday outfit that sits in your closet because a)you don't really like it b)it doesn't fit very well or c)you have nothing else in your closet to wear it with.  Go grab a coffee and think about which one works best for the occasion and what you felt the best in. Then go back and get it!


Armed with this knowledge, you are ready to hit the holiday party circuit, stress free and in style!