What To Wear To A Holiday Party

With December officially upon us, it’s safe to say that we are in the midst of yet another holiday season.  Starbucks cups are red, Christmas trees line every corner, wreaths decorate doorways, and jingle bells can be heard on every radio station.  People are getting into the holiday spirit, and so there’s no reason that your wardrobe shouldn’t be doing the same.

Family gatherings, office parties, friends’ dinner shindigs…the sky’s the limit when it comes to celebrating the merriest time of the year, which means you’ll need to dazzle throughout multiple nights in the coming month.  While temperatures may be dropping and the sun may be setting at early bird hours, fashion has officially entered one of the best times of the year.  Sparkles, bright colors, and festive make-up.  Velvet, suede, leather and lace.  It’s fashion’s time to shine, literally, so have some fun this season and crank your holiday party attire up a notch!

A solid standby is the little black dress.  But just because your dress happens to be little and black, doesn’t mean it should be simple and boring.  Options abound for black dresses this time of year, so try a daring neckline, an asymmetrical cut, or a funky fabric.  While accessories are always a great way to spice up an outfit, consider letting the dress spice up your look all on it’s own.

If you go the LBD route, let your feet go a little crazy.  Maybe you’re the type that shies away from too much color or attention.  That’s totally acceptable, but from the ankles down, all bets are off.  Colorful kicks add a subtle dash of festivity to an otherwise solid silhouette, and can take an outfit from fashionable to show stopping with each sky-high step.

If you still want a black-based shoe, try one that’s two-toned or that has some embellishments.  Your color scheme won’t be all out of whack, but you’ll still stand out and avoid being forgettable.

If you want to try a more colorful or flashy option up top, DO IT!  Now is one of the few times a year you can get away with a sequined dress or sizzling red get-up.  Seize this opportunity!  Shocking hues, bedazzled gowns, flouncy puffy skirts…everything is fair game.  And don’t forget, white can be just as remarkable as the brightest color.  Take a risk.  I promise, you’ll be the belle of the ball.

After graduating from college in ’09, Allyson Barkan flew off to Greece to teach English Literature at a private high school and explore Greek and European culture for a year.  Since returning stateside, she now works in Entertainment Public Relations in New York City.  For travel advice, stray observations as a 20-something in the big city, and the occasional hilarious misadventure, follow Allyson at www.allysonbarkan.com and on twitter at @aebarkan.