Whatever Shall I Wear?
Ah, Cooler weather has begun, to set in. The temperature change awakens the dormant excitement for the holidays, that has been slumbering, since last New Year’s Day. Yes, even as adults, the cooler weather elicits a unique change in our mood. How can it not? This time of year, we seem to reconnect with our inner child, and even more so as the holidays draw near.
Stress can also be an emotion, of the holiday season! For many of us, we have several “must-go-to” parties, the office party, parties at friend’s homes, and of course… the family gatherings. Some of us will be hosting intimate soirées, others will be off, to black tie affairs. Whatever the case, choosing the appropriate outfit, can become a major source, of not so glad tidings!
So…take a deep breath and try not to stress! There are several tips women can take into consideration, while determining what to wear, throughout the holiday season. The questions we must ask are… “Where is it being held? What time is it being held? Is it casual, couture, or costume? Who will be attending? And the most important question,
“What did I wear last year?!”
Let’s start with the obligatory office party. Some love them, some dread them, but they are an annual holiday staple and in many cases, an unwritten part of our job descriptions. If the office party, as its name suggests, is at the office, then attire is much easier to select, than our other gatherings. Wear something with a little holiday flair, or add a touch of whimsy! Holiday necklaces, earrings, and brooches are appropriate in a professional setting, as is adding a holiday color. A deep red, silk, blouse looks stunning under a black, blue, or gray suit jacket for ladies, and a traditional holiday tie, can be worn by the gents! If you work in a business casual style, then you can choose, to add a holiday color, or sweater. If you have the open office style, add that Santa hat, or the string of lights necklace that blink!
If the party is at night, however, there are a few things you will need to give extra consideration too. As women, we have more fun options available to us for nighttime parties, as compared to their daytime counterparts. This is a perfect setting for “The Little Black Dress”! Keep in mind, these are your co-workers and your boss! Nothing too short, or too low cut! This is where we ask about “Who will be attending?” Many corporate parties, also include clients, and what you wear may land you an account, or cost you business! Always err on the side of demure, for no morning-after regrets!
When it comes to the formal affairs, like society balls, charity events, or other affairs, that are announced by invitation, the options for dress are more structured. Formal affair, bring visions of long, sparkling, sequined gowns, dramatic accessories, glamorous hair and makeup, and beautiful shoes, you may wear, just that once.
Even though it may seem like it is more limited, women have many more options than men, whom have few other choices besides a finely made, tailored suit, or a more formal tuxedo. When choosing a gown or cocktail dress, you can never go wrong with the safe, yet dramatic, classic black. Long or short, daring or conservative, black is always a perfect choice. If you feel a bit more adventurous, then consider other options like sequins, satin, velvet or lace. When choosing a color other than black, consider your skin tone, and the colors that look good on you. The best and most popular choices around the holidays are deep jewel tones. Deep Purple, emerald green, royal blue. Gold and silver are also excellent choices. If you are a fan of red, there are several options like ruby, cranberry, burgundy or “Santa Red”. Try on several different reds, so you can be sure, to pick the red tone, that goes best with your complexion. Oh… and save the pastels for spring and summer affairs unless of course, it’s Winter White!
Once you have the perfect dress or gown, feel free to go as dramatic as you dare, with the accessories. Beautiful vintage earrings, an elegant bracelet of diamonds or faux gems, a gorgeous pendant or choker, or perhaps, sparkling shoes or shoe clips! These will all make you feel a little like Cinderella! That being said, you don’t want to outshine the Christmas tree! A little rule of thumb, take one last look in the mirror, then remove one accessory, before you head out the door.
