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!

Cold weather essentials

I am a firm believer that when you look good, you feel good.  But I also know that it may be tough when the temperature plummets!  However, I still try to make an effort especially when I leave the house. So here are 4 items that I deem essential if you want to stay fashionable yet warm during the winter months.

The Scarf - They do a lot more than just keep you cozy and warm.   They also act as a statement piece on even the simplest of  outfits. 

I am currently coveting this scarf from Etsy.  Happy Fox Scarf

Knit Cardigan - Knit cardigans are ideal items of clothing to own in our climate, and are great for heating up any winter outfit. There are lots of options out there to choose from when it comes to colour, style and fit.  For a whole range of colours and styles check out The Bay.  I can never seem to get enough of the open cardigan. 

I love the pattern on this one by Ralph Lauren.  wrapped in style

Boots - Lots of women struggle to find a boot that can brave our weather and look good at the same time.  Here are my 3 picks for warm and stylish boots. 

Sorel Sorelia Earhart 

Pajar  Laverne boot

Merrell Oslo-WTPF 

Bold Bottoms - This winter is also all about bold colours. While we usually associate winter with dark shades of greys, blacks and navy's, a great way to break out of the cold weather blues is to add a punch of colour!  Look for it in jeans, leggings and trousers. If you are really daring, go for these pink trousers at H&M.

 touch of pink

So there are my tips to keeping warm and still looking stylish, and I would love to hear what item you can't live without this winter!