As the invitations roll in this holiday season, you're probably staring into your closet hoping holiday-appropriate outfits will throw themselves on your bed.
It may not be that easy to pull off festive ensembles, but you can put together a variety of looks with minimal effort by using these simple tips (an added bonus: most pieces shown here are under $100!).
It may not be that easy to pull off festive ensembles, but you can put together a variety of looks with minimal effort by using these simple tips (an added bonus: most pieces shown here are under $100!).
Adorn Your LBD
Your favorite little black dress can be a show-stopper by adding some eye-catching adornments. This velvet number by Dorothy Perkins ($50) is jazzed up with an Isabella Oliver wrap belt ($72), funky shoes by Doll House ($64), emerald earrings by Fantasy Jewelry Box ($50) and a sparkly clutch from TopShop ($74). Finally, this feather head band from Girl Props ($8.99) adds just the right amount of sass, while staying holiday-appropriate. Pick one statement piece, in this case, the head band, and keep the glitz to a minimum.
Love Your Leggings
Love them or loathe them, leggings are everywhere this fall and winter. Try a subtle departure from the typical black this holiday by donning a different hue like these navy leggings from Brown's Fashion ($91). This simple Clu tank ($97) is perfect under Splendid's long jersey turtleneck top ($50) and, together, they add just the right amount of coverage. These Cocoeve glitter pumps ($88) say, "celebrate!" and elevate leggings to holiday-appropriate status. Finally, grab a long necklace, perhaps Cara's($58), and a unique ring like this one by Coach ($78) to pull the whole outfit together.
Sweater Weather
A solid-colored sweater dress, like this one by ModCloth ($50), can be a valuable asset during the holiday season. Throw a long-sleeved tee underneath for warmth (Splendid tees like this one, $68, are nice and light) and grab some booties, like these from Rocawear($90), or your favorite tall boots if your dress hits at or above the knee. A large cuff bracelet adds color and interest. Zentosa's rose bracelet ($81) is a great attention grabber. Make sure the focus remains on the cuff by adding a simple but stylish clutch, like this one from TopShop ($66) and subtle pave studs by Nadri ($58).
Unexpected Print
Holiday attire does not have to be green, red and metallic. A great print can work equally as well, provided you add the right touches. This Arden B dress ($78) features an Ikat print that you wouldn't typically associate with holiday. But, add some shiny patent, like these great Jeffrey Campbell flats ($63) and a French Connection clutch ($74), and you are ready to party, holiday style. A pop of yellow from a cardigan like this one from American Eagle ($30) will make you stand out in a sea of green, red and gold.
Pencil It In