Tammy Severino is the President of RPC Development, LLC, a boutique consulting firm specializing in small businesses and nonprofit organization. She has more than 20 years of experience as a writer, and is a speaker on women’s empowerment issues and philanthropy in America. In her spare time, this fashionista follows and writes about fashion, travel, parenting, and other lifestyle topics.
The holidays are upon us, and like everything else in 2020, they will surely be unlike anything we’ve seen before. More than half the nation plans to stay home for Thanksgiving, Christmas and Chanukah, while even more are planning to pass on spending the night out for New Year’s Eve. If the holidays will be spent at your own dining room table or in your favorite spot on your couch, the question of what to wear comes up.
Fashion and retail are among the casualties of COVID-19. The shopping habits of people all over the world have changed, therefore, so have the plans of buyers for retail stores. If you plan to head out to a small party or restaurant for any of the holidays, you will find fewer fad or one-year trend styles. Retailers have shifted to basics and colors that tend to be timeless. Instead of extra sparkle in your outfit, try an all-red sleeveless jumpsuit that will highlight your toned arms and shoulders from all of your at-home workouts. Add a little pow with dazzling eye shadow or a statement jewelry piece. A flowy, wide-legged pair of pants with a fitted top will be both elegant and comfortable for your night out. Keep dress selections to one color (red, green, metallic silver or gold) for simple elegance that still pertains to the season.
For the at-home crowd, comfort is key. Whether you plan to dress up, enjoy lounge clothes, or spend the holiday in your pajamas, you can easily remain festive with the right clothing choices. Loungewear has seen a new renaissance, with outfits and separates in everything from cotton to fleece to cashmere. Choose something soft, yet stylish that will become a favorite over the winter months ahead. Or, if you’d rather skip daywear altogether, you may prefer matching pajamas or holiday themed PJ’s that let your inner child come out to play.
Craving something with a bit more polish? Try a pair of velvet pants with a silk camisole or a favorite pair of mom jeans with a lace or organza blouse. Solid or minimalist patterned sweaters are expected to be more popular, especially as comfort and fashion collide more than ever before. This is expected for men, women, and children alike.
If you are heading out for the holidays, remember your mask is the newest fashion must-have. You can match it to your outfit, or have it stand out as your touch of panache. For example, if your outfit is a monochrome one, and you’re looking to add a certain something, how about a mask trimmed in rhinestones? Perhaps a mask with snowflakes or a small snowman will bring a smile? Also, consider Tartan plaids, particularly the Dress Stewart, which you can sport if a dress or shirt feels like too much.
This season, whatever your plans, wherever you’ll be, let’s make memories, share laughter, be fashionable, and make sure to be comfortable
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