Once upon a time, ugly Christmas sweaters were cool. About five years ago, it became funny and ironic to wear one to the family Christmas party. But somewhere down the line, it just got old and clichéd.
I’m here to help you avoid the ugly sweater trap. Holiday parties are an opportunity to get dressed up. Why would you want to forgo that for a tacky knit and some footie pyjamas?
Family gatherings tend to be more on the casual side. However, that’s no excuse to show up in your Ho Ho Ho jammies. A pair of black jeans is casual and presentable. Wear it with a slouchy cardigan in a festive hue, like cranberry red. This is a look that can be easily worn by both sexes.
For the girls, sweater-print leggings are big news this season. They put a fun new spin on the patterned leggings trend. Rock a pair with a big slouchy sweater and a knitted scarf. Grab a mug of hot cocoa and you’re ready to spend the night watching A Christmas Story with the family.
Speaking of getting cozy, they say the holiday season is the most romantic time of year. For those of you with a significant other to spend Christmas break with, choosing a date-night outfit can be just as hard as choosing their gift.
If you want to get fancy, convince your main squeeze to go for a night on the town. A short dress in a neutral shade (think black or grey) is perfect with sheer patterned tights. Whether you’re into lace or polka dots, there’s a pattern and colour for every girl. Finish it with some sky-high heels – show off your holiday spirit in a sparkly pair.
Every girl’s crazy about a sharp dressed man, so guys take note. Black pants and loafers are a no-brainer, but don’t shy away from the details. Try out a patterned necktie for your dinner date look. And no, I’m not talking about that Santa Claus tie your dad breaks out every year. Subtlety is the key word.
For the single ladies out there, a night with the girls can be just as merry. Though a girl’s night in usually lends itself to PINK and Lululemon, try upping the ante for 2013 by throwing a classy affair.
Velvet is making quite a comeback. This is a fabric that practically screams, “holiday.” It’s a great and unexpected way to punch up a simple look.
Rich, wintery hues like maroon, forest green and navy blue look best when accented with black and gold accessories. Go sexy in a body-hugging dress or sweet in a figure-skater style frock. If you’re hesitant to try out this trend, start small with a velvet tank or skirt.
Here’s to a fashionably festive season. Unless, of course, you really like ugly Christmas sweaters. Clichéd and ironic as it may be, I suppose it isn’t the holidays without a bit of cheese.
