Turning Heads This Holiday Season

If you’re anything like me, you love an excuse to dress up. If I could twirl around in pretty dresses all night, I would.

The truth is, as a mom with little ones, my Friday nights are instead spent on the couch in a track suit. But it’s the holiday season - a month of parties and a time to get all fancified. Unfortunately, bedazzling said track suit isn’t cutting it as holiday glam. At least not until I’m 80.

However, by following a few tricks and trends, any one of us can go from office or home to glamtastic in just a matter of minutes.

Get all glittery

According to Hillary Dutcher of Ivy Hill Boutique, 304 N. Euclid in the Central West End, the big trend for the holiday season is a hard edge. “I’ve seen lots of metallic again this season,” she said via email. “Gold and silver tops and dresses along with sequin embellishments on things like dresses and jackets.”

While one might associate holiday embellishment with grandma’s pimped-out Rudolph sweater set, there are plenty of fashion-forward options that can match your comfort level and budget. For inspiration, check out Michelle Williams for a metallic look that’s simple yet impactful.

Go for the element of surprise

My absolute favorite dress of the past few months is the one Kristen Stewart wore to the U.K. premiere of Breaking Dawn - Part 1. I love the feminine lace topped off with an S&M-esque leather belt for an unexpected combination of flirty and dirty.

The holidays are the perfect time to go for something a little unanticipated. Are dresses your usual M.O.? Try a menswear-inspired tuxedo jacket paired with ultra-feminine stilettos to stand out from the crowd. Shrouded in business suits all day? Channel Michelle Pfeiffer ala Scarface with a 70’s style pleated dress. Casual kind of gal? Kick up your sweater by going for cashmere and sequins.

Accessorize it

Every woman has a little black dress. Choosing a great accessory or two that complements your personality can morph it from reserved into ravishing.

A bold accessory can go a long way – such as a pair of patterned tights, python print heels or a vintage belt. Ivy Hill has incredible statement pieces, including this gorgeous stack ring and peacock necklace from Nicole Richie’s House of Harlow collection, and this tasty cranberry sequin clutch.

Shine at the office party

One of the most stressful events of the season is the holiday office party. Especially if it’s the spouse’s. Not only are you forced to make small talk, you have to be on your best behavior while ingesting a steady stream of free gin.

To maintain your professionalism, choose a look that’s appropriate, yet memorable.  Said Dutcher, “Try to add a little holiday flair with a fun top or jacket. That way, you can still feel work-appropriate in black pants, work-casual top, and beige jacket with gold sequin embellishment. Or, try a simple pencil skirt paired with a fun printed silk top – or a solid red top with a fun necklace.”

That way you’ll hopefully be remembered for your incredible karaoke of “Drop It Like It’s Hot” instead of an accidental baring of the lady lumps.

All of us moms need a little Chris deBurgh “Lady in Red” moment once in a while. Use this holiday season as your opportunity to let your awesomeness shine through and turn a few heads in the process.

By Nicole Plegge, Lifestyle Blogger for SmartParenting