Bling In the New Year

It’s that time of year again — when you take time to plan every detail and make the holidays special for everyone else in your life. But why not also take a little time for you? Why not make this the year that you look fabulous and celebrate the holidays all month long?

Do something unexpected, and leave the Santa sweater at home. Get dressed up for even those small things, like holiday shopping, lunch with friends or your child’s school party.

And it doesn’t have to be time-consuming or expensive. You can get more use out of your favorite pieces by kicking them up a few notches to celebrate the season. Just a couple of hours in your closet with a cup of hot cocoa, and you’ll be on your way.

To get you started, here are a few suggestions on how to take your everyday pieces and turn them into fabulous holiday looks:

Jeans – Pair your favorite jeans (dark, of course!) with a silk blouse and fancy pumps for a casual holiday get-together with friends. Or wear your jeans with a lace cami, velvet blazer and an armload of sparkling bangle bracelets. Your look will be casual and approachable for hanging out with friends. 

White Blouse – This is a staple that should be in every woman’s closet. Wear it with your favorite long skirt, a wide belt and jeweled ballet flats for a casual cocktail party or for lunch with girlfriends. If you love wearing red this time of year, wear a red patent leather belt with your white blouse and jeans for a school holiday party.

Little Black Dress – If you have a dressy holiday event to attend, pull out your little black dress and glam it up. Wear it with a faux fur wrap or a bright-colored cardigan and oversize rhinestone earrings. Layer two or three rhinestone necklaces or bunches of pearls to make a glam holiday statement. 

Outerwear – Make an entrance by wearing that vintage wool coat or fur that has been in your closet for ages. Capes are also a huge trend this year, and the holidays are a great opportunity to wear this fun piece. And a black blazer styled with a shimmery scarf can be a great look for that neighborhood caroling party.

After you’ve tentatively planned what you’ll be wearing this holiday season, perhaps a trip to the store will be in order. Consider checking out a few boutiques or local resale shops for special and interesting finds to add to your old favorites. Rhinestone earrings or bangle bracelets are a small investment that will add a lot of sparkle to your look, and buying a fun, festive belt can dress up most holiday looks.

So rather than picking up Christmas socks or a reindeer headband, get a few great pieces that will make this holiday season about luxury and glamour.

Here’s to being fabulous — all month long!

/Susan Luc and Betsy Tabatcher are co-owners of Shop Your Closet. They do style consulting, wardrobe planning and personal shopping. You can contact them at 330-322-3611 or at susanbetsy@shop-your-closet.com.