Holiday party clothes will sparkle and shine
BY Linda Miller | Published: October 29, 2012 | Modified: October 29, 2012 at 4:48 pm
When the holiday season rolls around, you can count on two constants: shine and sparkle.
That's true of party clothes as well as decorations.
“Shine has been such an element all fall and a natural to go into holidays,” said Cindi Shelby, owner of Ruth Meyers in Nichols Hills Plaza.
It seems shine and sequins are making even more impact this year, if that's possible. Or maybe it's just because those accents look so good dressed up in modern silhouettes with interesting treatments.
DeDe Benham, co-owner of Balliets at Classen Curve, agreed that sheen, sparkle and glitz are everywhere. “There aren't any quiet fabrics. Everything's making a little noise. Nothing is sitting quietly in the corner.”
Choices are plentiful, whether you go all-out glitz or opt for just a flash.
Metallic sequin cocktail dresses in an interesting shape or with dramatic back detail beg for a little New Year's Eve action. Satin blouses in hot hues add festive flair to a simple pair of leggings. A tweed pencil skirt laced with metallic threads is the perfect complement for a high-neck chiffon blouse or a sexy tank.
Making it special
With so many choices, Shelby said many women will be able to pull a daytime piece from their wardrobe, add a special top or bottom, along with a statement accessory, and suddenly that outfit takes on a holiday spin. A velvet jacket is a classic holiday look that can be worn with jeans or a pair of flowing trousers. Or go beyond classic and opt for a tuxedo jacket. Really, anything with lace, metallic, shine or sparkle will make the season bright.
“Just take day wear and dress it up with one fun item,” Shelby said.
It's an easy way to dress when you want to look a little festive for that neighborhood gathering or a friend's holiday brunch, she said. And separates are versatile, so they can be changed up with no one the wiser.
Don't overlook a great cocktail dress, though, when you want to step out in style. The fabrics, prints and colors are stunning. Brocades, luxurious silks and satins, and metallic sequins lend a sophistication and glamour that's especially appealing right now. These dresses are attention-getters. They're not for those who want to sit in a corner all evening.
When it comes to color, oxblood, the hot hue this fall, reappears for holiday, along with gold and silver, rich shades of purple and forest green, and the ever-popular red.
“There hasn't been a lot of red for the holidays the past couple of years,” Benham said. “It's bright red. No-mistaking red.”
To complete your outfit, consider a fur collar or mini stole, either real or faux. It's a great way to wrap up the holiday fashion season.
