The party dress – a popular item for holiday and New Year’s parties and an easy sale for retail stores this time of the year. But really, how easy is it to pick up a sequin or glitter-covered dress and call it a night? Problem is, you run the risk of looking like every other dame at the party.
If that’s okay with you, go ahead and play it safe; but if you’re feeling your little holiday rebel coming out this year, check out our picks below to help inspire a more….thoughtful ensemble.
We’ve compiled some snazzy combinations that are festive, dazzling and absolutely jaw-dropping gorgeous! Mix-and-match tops, bottoms, and blazers with basic knits and killer heels to complete the look.
Top Focus – Dressy is highly achievable in a pretty peplum, sheer blouse, laser-cut leather tank, plunging neckline tank, or a shimmering cap-sleeved top. Pair these stand-alone pieces with any bottom, whether pant or skirt, and you’re all set! Tip: if your top is the focus, keep jewelry to a minimum.
From left to right, top to bottom:
It’s all in the details with Julie Haus’s metallic Novak peplum with crinkled metallic coating that adds a bronzed hint of texture to this popular fit.
ASOS brings us this sheer top with a loose peplum in navy or nude for a demure evening look.
If you’re feeling edgy, Helmut Lang’s leather trimmed spider tank top with a high-low silhouette is for you.
Sequins if you must in Dallin Chase’s sequin halter top.
ASOS knows peplum. Their gold sequin peplum top combines all the small details that matter: lightweight fabric, capped sleeves, and densely-packed sequins for a less flashy take on the little round embellishments.
Go Tailored with a Blazer – Regardless of whether you go for sparkle or shine, a fitted blazer can dress up a pair of jeans for the casual party crowd or give an already chic outfit a polished finish.
From left to right:
The Sliver Tuxedo from Rag & Bone exudes downtown New York with a little glitz and glamor for the occasion.
Emporio Armani does well in turning satin and velvet into a lush, one button jacket.
Glam it up in Nasty Gal’s Night Fever sequin blazer with black sequins and structured shoulders.
Bottoms Up – Typically an afterthought, bottoms tend to be chosen to match the rest of your outfit. This year, there are just too many pants and skirts in too many fabulous fits and fabrics to overlook.
From left to right:
J. Crew Collection’s pintucked Café Capri is a luxe silk-wool twill with classic pintucking down the front for an extra touch of tailored.
H&M’s fitted skirt incorporates glittery threads in the weave for a subtle shimmer.
MICHAEL Michael Kors offers a sweeping sequin maxi skirt that will ensure you make an entrance no matter where your evening takes you.
If you do decide to stick to a dress, the ladies here in our JBC New York office know how to take the drab out of the typical shift. Follow us on Instagram @teamjbc to see pictures from our annual JBC holiday party.
