All Wrapped Up. Cozy and chic can go together with these tips for cold-weather holiday style. By Aricia Symes-Elmer
Arriving flawlessly to a New Year’s party in a blizzard takes style and smarts. Wraps and layers are essential during the holiday season, but it’s important to think past the pashmina. Play up your own sense of style by using other items from your closet to top your frock: tuxedo jackets, rhinestone cardigans, and embellished Chanel-style jackets.
It’s fine to show some skin at dressy holiday parties-even on icy nights-so don’t shy away from strapless and tank dresses and tops. Your layering pieces will keep you comfortable, and rooms often get quite warm during crowded parties.
Evenings out and festive parties call for equally upbeat outfits, so think color and shine. Stay away from too-literal color selections (no red-green combinations), but any beautiful color combination, such as purple and red, will portray a rich, festive look.
The details of your night out will dictate your shoe selection. If you plan to valet the car, by all means, wear your most beautiful sequin shoes, but if you foresee walking an icy path, have an alternative ready. A classic black boot works with most holiday dresses and keeps the look clean, sophisticated, and weather-appropriate.
If you hate hosiery and it’s a mild night, do bare legs. More likely, however, you’ll need something warmer. Nude hose are great for dressy looks-just be sure to choose a toeless pair for open-toe shoes. Sheer black and subtle prints are sleek and elongate your silhouette when paired with darker colors. Save opaques for daytime and more casual occasions.
Lines at the party entrance mean that you’ll be seen in your outerwear. Make sure to have an appropriate, simple coat that you can dress up with beautiful accessories that add color or shine. A great fur scarf or rhinestone broach elevates the look.
Tip No. 1
This tank dress is perfectly appropriate-even in chilly weather-and the color is beautiful. If the weather turns, be sure you have an option like these simple and sophisticated dress boots. Coral dress, Plenty by Tracy Reese, $260, Coco Collection; Sam Edelman boots, $275, Sole Amour
Tip No. 2
This simple and stylish black satin jacket is perfect over any holiday outfit and sets you apart in a sea of pashminas. Search through your closet for inspired alternatives to top your frock.
Calvin Klein satin jacket, $39.50, Boston Fashion House; rhinestone necklace, $28, Ruby Slipper
Tip No. 3
Peeptoes and strappy sandals are appropriate as long as they’re practical. No snow and ice to traverse? In that case, choose shoes for their style! Valentino sequin pumps, $288, Madam Had’em
Tip No. 4
Remember to elevate your outerwear for your entrance. Beautiful accessories like this hat with rhinestone accents and rich faux fur scarf turn your simple coat in to a statement. Scala wool hat, $20, Essencia Salon & Spa; faux fur scarf, $24 , Pretty Poppy
Tip No. 5
If you can’t bear the cold on a truly bitter night, simply bundle up in a beautiful sweater (cashmere is so chic) and pile on the accessories. This necklace makes any look feel instantly more festive. Bauble necklace, $28, Pretty Poppy