ISO: Christmas Party Dress cont’d (4 days left)

I have 4 days to find a dress.  And, I’ve narrowed it down to seven choices (see above)  I know that I want a short dress.  Because it’s a party of over 1000 people I do want to stand out in the crowd, but at the same time I don’t want to get the I-can’t-believe-she-wore-that look.  I just wanted to get some opinions/feedback on what you would wear to your husband’s Christmas party.  Help!

Layering: Long Tee inside a Dress

I love the colder seasons mainly for the countless layered looks I can pull off.  One look in particular is the thin tee inside a twill or knit dress.  Please keep in mind your color palette.  I’ve been in art classes all my life and I incorporate my knowledge of the color wheel when dressing my clients or even picking outfits for myself.   Keep the colors within the same tones or shade.  Think of pairing different shades of grey together or lilac with plum.  Try to stay away from bright bold colors that will make you look like a walking crayon.  Also, if you’re short like me, bright crayon colors will only make you look like a child ~~  just a tip from a fellow vertically challenged person.

Seven ChiChi Styles for Winter

1. Extra Long Scarf:  Whether it’s a knit or a silk scarf, I’ve always been a fan of this simple accessory which adds an instant glam factor.

2. Blazer over a cocktail Dress:  While we associate cocktail dresses with femininity, why not switch it up by adding a masculine touch?  A black tuxedo blazer matches just about every color in the rainbow.  I suggest a cropped style, rather than a waist length blazer.

3. Dip Dyed Tops/Dresses:  This is in no way associated with the typical hippie tie dyed look.  I’m seeing a lot of dipped inspired styles which are quite subtle and simple.

4. Knee length dress + skinny belt: Last year it was all about the fat leather belt.  This season we’re seeing a lot of skinny belts synching the waist and adding a great shape to the female form.  A popular material for this winter is the patented look.

5. Nude Heels: Whether you opt for the peep-toe or a typical pump, nude is the “it” color.  Not only is it a great everyday shoe, it also helps elongate the leg.

6. Plaid Pants:  I suggest if you’re a bit heavier on the legs you not attempt this trend.  The plaid will only make you legs look larger.  However if you are like 5% of the skinny women on the earth, then this trend will add a rock & roll chic to your wardrobe.

7. Jeweled Necklines:  A great way to add sparkle to any outfit.  There is no need for a necklace as your neck is already crested with bling.  We’re seeing many stars wearing the long sleeved Alice + Olivia dress with a sequined neckline and cuff.

The Skinny Headband

When your bangs reach that in-between stage, buy yourself a skinny headband.  This head piece was popularized by Ashley Simpson.  It’s now seen on the red carpet accessorizing Gucci & Prada!  I usually wear a skinny headband with a loose ponytail and I let out a few whispy pieces.  While most stars sport this style with elegant gowns, I like this look with casual clothes and a pair of designer runners.  Not only are these head pieces cheap, they’re also very easy to find.  Just go to your local drugstore and you’ll find a variety of colors as well as styles.

Trend Alert: The Orange Leather Tote

I think orange is a great color to accessorize dark denim.  Lauren Conrad is often seen carrying her Linea Pelle Tote, “Piper Speedy”.  It’s a great bag for running errands or just as an everyday bag.  Orange is also an excellent color to go with a sporty look.  Whether you’re wearing runners or a white Lululemon zip up, you’ll look trendy and stylish.

How to fold a scarf-Duh?!?!

A scarf adds that punch of color to an everyday look.  Stylists are either tying the scarf very close to the neck or leaning it open so it layers over your top or dress.  Here’s a step by step guide on how to get that skinny scarf effect.  I know, duh! But, seriously- this technique allows a nice clean look with a bit of a flare at each end of the scarf.

Neck Wear

Last year it was all about the long and skinny scarf.  This year’s trendiest look is a cocooned effect wrapped around the neck.  We all know of the – fold scarf in half and feed end through loop technique.-  So, with the scarves fuller and longer this year, we’ll see a lot of big loose knits layered over winter coats.  Another popular come back is the wrap around.  Please don’t mistake this with the poncho.  Please don’t.  A wrap around over a knitted dress- all the same color would make a great Christmas party outfit. And last but not least, the long silk scarf, loosely tied at mid torso.  Popular looks include big, bold prints –-think Photoshop paint brushes- or a solid color with a graphic design.

A Touch of Glam – sequined headband

A great way to add sparkle to your wardrobe would be with this sequined headband from Deepa.  Whether your hair is up in a high pony tail or down and straight, people will notice this shimmer to your winter do.

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Glitter Pump – Christian Louboutin

The sparkly shoe!  What are your thoughts on Christian Louboutin’s Glitter Pump?  They may seem like too much but for $690 I sure hope those sparkles stay on.  If you do decide to purchase this shoe or one that is similar.  Keep in mind that the shoe is the focal point, so keep your outfit simple and clean.  I would pair these with a pair of dark, cropped skinny jean and a jersey knit balloon sleeved sweater in deep grey.

Trend Alert: Cropped Leather Jacket

A funky way to accessorize a long tee this fall would be with a cropped jacket.  A popular style since spring ’07 was the cropped leather jacket.  Cameron Diaz was first spotted wearing a Mike and Chris creation.  I love the cropped jacket with a hood.  With winter coming soon, most crops are veering toward a tee or wool fabric which works great over long sweaters or long sleeved dresses.