Party looks have started to filter through to brick-and-mortar and online stores. Here are some holiday looks that have worked well on my clients, with a few non-party items thrown in for good measure. Be sure to check out all the colours and extended size options.
1. Karl Lagerfeld Harlow Bootie
This bootie is NOT made in France despite the Karl Lagerfeld label and associations with high-end luxury brand Chanel. They are quite comfortable and look streamlined on the foot. Not great on a narrow ankle, but they fit an assortment of foot shapes. The embroidered version is festive for the holidays, and the dusty rose is unique.
2. Boden Agnes Fair Isle Sweater
A cuddly and classic Fair Isle in both cool and warmer shades has been a hit with some forum members. Despite the alpaca fibre content, the pullover is not scratchy. It has a streamlined fluid fit and is flattering on a range of body types. It looks great styled with a pencil skirt and trendy jeans. Lovely quality.
3. Eliza J Formal Flared Skirts
Flared skirts are an acquired Modern Classic taste because many tend to feel it’s too much skirt and adds bulk. But that’s the charm of the silhouette. These Eliza J darlings are winners every season, and the pattern assortment is versatile. They lay a lot more flat than you expect, are comfortable in the extreme if you enjoy defining the waist. They aren’t overly long and overwhelming. They work best on regular and long torsos who enjoy defining their waist. They can work with a short fitted untucked top to lengthen the waist. Or a buttoned-up short cardigan. Keep the look classic, or add a little unexpected to the skirt by combining it with sneakers, tough boots, a moto, or denim jacket.
4. Express Fold-Over Collar Puffer Jacket
This puffer is FABULOUS if you like an avant-garde fit. It is boxy and creates architectural drape. It’s like you bought it at COS. Some of my clients felt like they hit the jackpot with the look and loved it. Others felt like a gigantic marshmallow. The silhouette is an acquired taste so consider yourself warned. It’s extremely cosy and soft. Good for all neck lengths because the collar folds up and down. If I hadn’t already committed to my new short navy puffer from Boden because the quality and fit is GORGEOUS, I would have this in red.
5. JS Collections Soutache Sheath Dress
Oh my word. Where do I begin with how STUNNING my size US12 client with a larger bust looked in this dress. It’s forgiving of lumps and bumps, and a very elegant length. No shapewear needed. She’s going to finish off the look with leopard pumps and a bright red clutch to amp up the fun factor. It’s best on a rectangular or inverted triangle body type. Can work on an hourglass too.
6. London Fog Petite Faux-Fur-Trim Hooded Down Puffer Coat
One of our petite forum members recently reviewed this puffer in burgundy, and it looks smashing on her. Petite puffers with a streamlined fit and suitable arm length are hard to find, but this one fits the bill for a very cold Winter.
7. Frye Shane Tip Western Bootie
Western Wear is on trend, but cowboy boots are always in style making them a Trendy Classic. They always look current, flattering and right, and can be used in all sorts of outfits. If you’re a black boots wearer, these are a great way to refresh your black boot capsule. They’re comfortable, very well made, fit a variety of foot shapes, and look extremely sharp. They are pricey, but have a high longevity factor.
8. Madewell Delilah Mary Jane Pumps
The Mary Jane pumps are well made and comfortable. Best on a low and regular volume foot. Excellent on those who like low heels and a secure pump. The glitter does not come off the blush version. The surface of the glitter is hard, but the inside of the shoes is very soft. Good with or without hose. Looks like a Jimmy Choo, but at a fraction of the price. The pink glitter earned a place in my wardrobe and is my new party shoe. Dainty and delightful.
9. Rachel Roy Collection Piping Detail Side Slit Midi
This dress works well on a rectangle, inverted triangle and hourglass. It works best on a regular and longer torso, and wider shoulders or a larger bust (you need to fill out the top). The sleeves are long, but can be easily hemmed. The diagonal lines of the piping are magical at creating a vertical and streamlined effect. They create curves for a straighter figure, and flatten curves on a curvier figure. The fabric is substantial and relatively girdling. The length and swoosh of the skirt are elegant.
