By Leanna Pankratz (The Cascade) – Email
Print Edition: December 6, 2011
Dear UFV-ers,
The Christmas season means party season, which inevitably means fashion season. As a swan song for a wonderful semester of trend reporting, I have provided for you a (somewhat self-aware) rundown of all that is haute for the holidays – from the dress for that Christmas cocktail party to the knitted sweater for the day after. Here is the Festive Top Five – five of what I consider to be the most important aspects of holiday wear. So glam up, glitter out, and put on some Christmas.
1. The Dress
This is often the bane of every woman’s existence, yet essentially the palate for every party look. We all build our looks around the dress, and the key for snagging that mistletoe moment is indeed the perfect frock. There is no better time than the Christmas season for dress shopping, as stores are packed full of numbers that range from sequin-covered sheaths to white lace and chiffon dreams harking back to the ever-romanticized Victorian Christmastime. Red is always siren-like and eye-popping, though is not the most accommodating when it comes to other seasons. I would recommend something figure-flattering and versatile. You don’t want a dress that can only be worn once a year!
2. Glitter (not the Ke$ha kind)
One of my favourite parts of the holiday season is the return of all things sparkly. This includes the aforementioned sequined dresses, and statement jewelry that will add a pop of dazzle to any holiday hue.
3. Boots
Nothing winterizes a look more than cold-weather footwear, and Winter 2011/2012 definitely holds no shortage of boots. Fringe is in, and suede boots with Aboriginal-inspired fur and fringe are a beautiful addition to any outfit. Riding boots look sexy and clipped with dark wash skinny jeans and a blazer. And ankle-high, sheep-lined suede boots are the perfect blend of outdoorsy and hip. Both practical and fashion savvy, boots are a staple for any fashionista in tune with the weather report.
4. Metallics
What could be better than a shiny gold tunic top, black super-skinnies, and black pumps? This is another one of those “only during the holidays” fashion moments that make use of the temporary allowance of the gaudy. Also of note is a silvery, tissue paper strapless dress available at Suzy Shier that is sure to be head-turning. I promise you that the utilization of metallics this holiday season will guarantee you tree-topper status. Who needs a star?
5. Knitted
After all those evenings of style party tricks, a haute hangover is sometimes inescapable. A little too much eggnog liqueur is easily remedied by a cozy day in – courtesy of a warm holiday fire and an even warmer sweater. Christmas sweaters are cute in their geek-chic way, but this season also boasts a whole lotta sweater options with cute cable knit numbers and heavy Cowichans perfect for keeping the heat in. Tommy Hilfiger has an array of simple, sweater staples that can be easily thrown on for a much needed breathing break from all the festivities. Gap, as well, boasts a range of high quality and attractive sweaters and cardigans that are a little easier on the debit card. Also keep in mind the versatile sweater-dress, which is a little bit dressier, but wears like lounge clothes.
Here’s to you finding the haute in your holidays!
Farewell until January.
