Subscribe Now

Welcoming the holiday spirit, we recruited three of our readers blessed with professional-model confidence and flair to model sensational evening wear courtesy of CoCo Collection in Andover. Suna at Home was the perfect setting to suggest an in-home holiday party. And we even supplied a “mystery” male guest in the backdrop. Look for clues below to identify this international man of intrigue.

Michele Mathers, Boxford, married, mother of two. Formerly a board certified occupational therapist. This busy mom is an aspiring children’s picture book writer.  Fashion: Ruffled cream lace top and black satin pencil skirt with lace bustle, both by Nanette Lepore.

Bettina Indaco, Andover, married, mother of two. A former classical ballet dancer with the Dutch National Ballet she now teaches ballet and dance in Andover and Boston.  Fashion: Garnet silk dupionni dress by Suzi Chin.

Joan Parker, Cambridge. Former child psychology professor turned producer, writer and philanthropist. She recently celebrated her 50th wedding anniversary with her writer/husband. Fashion: woven stretch metal sheath in pewter by Nicole Miller.

Nancy Dube says…

The “little black dress” continues to be a wardrobe staple and, thankfully, this season is chock full of them. While black might be easy, don’t neglect the other big stand-out colors: cherry red, chocolate brown, and champagne especially when it’s paired with black. Dresses aren’t the only way to go – two-piece outfits are often easier to wear and will extend your wardrobe options.

Look for interesting textures. Fabrics like burn-out velvet, metallics, and lace add drama. A beautiful beaded top makes a simple pant or skirt a knockout. “Winterize” a crop pant with opaque tights, a fabulous pump and a cashmere sweater and your office outfit is on its way to a party. Slip on a silk embroidered evening coat over your stand-by cocktail dress or wear it as a jacket with jeans and a crisp white shirt for instant glamour.

Jazz up your holiday outfit with accessories. Graduated strands of long necklaces layered over a simple sheath or tunic sweater will take you anywhere. Go for the gold when choosing jewelry. Earrings, bracelets and cuffs in this precious metal reflect the warmth of the season. Light as air, woven metal belts shimmer in copper, gold and pewter tones. And sure to be a showstopper is a cross-dyed iridescent shawl in rich magenta to match your pomegranate martini!