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 Tammy Severino is the President of RPC Development, a business and development consulting firm for local businesses and not-for-profit organizations. She has more than 20 years of experience in writing, from business writing to journalism to creative writing, as well as in event planning for corporations, not-for-profit organizations and private clients. In her spare time, this fashionista follows and writes about fashion, travel, and other lifestyle topics. |
| It’s hard to believe that the clocks were turned back and the holidays will be upon us. Stores are fully stocked with holiday goods, including apparel and accessories for the holiday parties that will be starting in just a few weeks. This year, the style trends exactly what you would expect for the glitz and glamour that comes with the holidays. In fact, you can sum up the season with one word: S*P*A*R*K*L*E. From head to toe, styles for the holiday season are a blend of classic with a bit of razzmatazz. If you like a more subtle statement, you can opt for a romantic, lacey look. Add some sparkle to that lace with ruby red jewelry or even a full bodied, matte lipstick. You may even jazz it up with a sequined or sparkling pair of high heels or platform pumps. The little black dress, or LBD, has never been as popular as it is right now and can be the star of the show or provide back-up to a fabulous faux fur stole or statement necklace. Chokers are the look – whether bejeweled, lacey or solid. Nearly every fashion magazine has a piece on the LBD. There are more options than in recent years – from design to cut. With so many choices available, be sure to pick a style that suits your figure and you will look your very best. Off the shoulder looks, which were a big hit this fall, are all dressed up and ready to head out to the party. Full skirted looks and high/low designs are prevalent this season, with the rich fabrics and colors you would expect to see as the temperatures drop. Velvets, velours and taffetas are all readily available in jewel tones, burgundies, and creamy winter white. Perhaps the number one look for the holiday season is sequins. Whether you are feeling bold with a dress that has sequins from top to bottom or prefer something a bit less daring with sequined trim, you will find sequins in just about every color. While searching through stores the other day, I even came across a fully sequined piece that included all the colors of the rainbow. Certainly, you must be comfortable center stage in that choice! Whichever you choose, complete your ensemble with the appropriate accessories. If you have selected a lot of razzle dazzle, choose a simpler shoe and purse with which to pair. In doing so, your dress gets the attention. If the dress is more subtle, feel free to choose accessories – footwear, stockings, handbags, jewelry or hair accoutrements that are eye catching and elegant. Remember, don’t go overboard. If your jewelry has the pop, let the others fade into the background. Whatever your style, be true to yourself. The best fashion choices are the ones where you feel beautiful. When you do that, the sparkle will come not from your dress or outfit, but, rather, from you. |
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