DRESSING UP DENIM FOR THE HOLIDAYS
Photo: Pinterest
So, you’ve been invited to a party. The invitation calls for dressy casual. You have both dressy outfits and casual outfits in your closet, but how do you mix the two?
First of all, look through your tops, jackets, jewelry, shoes and handbags that will make your party ready.
Would you be surprised if I suggested you start with jeans? Jeans aren’t right for every occasion, but with some finesse, you can make them party ready.
It all starts with the right jeans
Here are some general rules for the best jeans to use as your casual chic or elegant casual outfit.
1. The darker the denim, the dressier and more formal it is, which works well with the dressier items you’ll be wearing on top.
3. High-rise jeans are a great base. They’ll look great with any dressy top or jacket.
4. You could start with a denim jean that is coated; it has the appearance of leather. Or consider a jean with some elegant embroidery.
Photo: Pinterest
Find unique jackets in your closet
Now let’s get to what you’re wearing on top. Jackets can play a crucial role in dressing up jeans. Focus on more festive choices and think outside the box.
This list of jacket styles will love to dress up your denim.
1. Statement pieces like kimonos, dusters, or vintage jackets
2. Blazers in velvet, leather, lace or jacquard prints
3. A tuxedo jacket
4. Knit or woven jackets with fur trim
5. An embroidered or quilted jacket
Photo and Jacket : Frances Valentine
Tops that are just right for going out
Here are some looks to consider.
1. Blouses with statement sleeves like ruffles, ties, pleats, or ribbons
2. Romantic blouses with lace or leather trim.
3. A knit or woven top in a bold, bright print
4. A sheer top with a camisole underneath
5. A sweater with pearl or sequined details, or a cashmere sweater that is delicate or feminine
Photo: Pinterest
Jewelry selection is a must
If you’re wearing simple clothing pieces, then your jewelry choices will lift your outfit into a dressy casual party scene. Go beyond your tried-and-true everyday pieces. Consider vintage or crystal jewelry or any of your fine jewelry like diamonds, rubies, sapphires, and pearls.
If you’re wearing tops that are already sequined or jeweled, then your jewelry should be kept to a minimum.
Here are some ideas for using accessories to make your outfit sparkle and shine.
1. Statement earrings (choose between statement earrings or necklace, don’t wear both!)
2. Statement necklaces or double or triple layered chokers
3. A sparkly brooch or a collection of pins worn together
4. Bold cocktail rings, or stacks of rings on a finger or two
5. Cuffs or layered bangles that have lots of shimmer and shine
6. Mixing in fine jewelry with costume jewelry
Photo: Pinterest
Shoes matter, both functionally and fashionably
You may have shoes in your closet that will only work if you’re sitting at a table, rather than standing at a table all night. Be careful. Know with a two-hour shoe will work or whether you need to wear a shoe that you can dance in all night long.
Here are some shoe choices for entertaining at home or going out on the town:
1. High heels or kitten-heeled pumps in patent leather, red or burgundy, metallics, animal print , or fabrics
2. Comfortable flats that are embellished with bows, sequins, ribbons, or applique
3. Metallic flats or booties
4. Velvet slippers, flats or booties
5. Sandals with heels
Photo: Pinterest
Handbags need to be a lot more special than your workbag
For many gatherings, the purse you choose only needs to hold your lipstick, a credit card, some cash, and your phone. You may have cocktail handbags that you’ve used for years. I encourage you to take a closer look at them this year. Do they still look viable or does yours need an update?
Here are some handbag selections for your party outfit.
1. Smaller crossbody bag with chain straps
2. Fabric bags made with beautiful tapestry or damask fabrics
3. Small framed bags including vintage bags
4. A small handbag in an intense color or a metallic
5. Hard, rather than soft, clutch in faux reptile
Photo : Pinterest
Fashion is like life.- it’s better to try something new than to never have tried at all. So all I can see is, if you feel like wearing sequins to a holiday brunch, just do it. Life is too short not to feel fabulous. Happy Holidays!