Around the holidays, the “what to wear” options are endless, much more thrilling than usual, and so much, much more adventurous and fun. And they lend themselves to the kind of drama embraced by parties and movies, red carpets, and big nights out.
Here are five iconic holiday looks for all kinds of occasions in the coming weeks.
A favorite of Kate Middleton and Megan Markle thanks to its place as a revered tradition in Scotland, it pops up mostly around the holidays in America. And as fetching as it is on sharp-looking casual numbers like the Black Watch plaid Holland pant ($47 on factory.jcrew.com), with their slim and straight leg, I really fall for it in a fancier form for the holidays. Exhibit A: The Black Watch Plaid One-Shoulder Georgette Gown by Polo Ralph Lauren ($798 on neimanmarcus.com). The gorgeous one-shoulder neckline is fit for gala evenings and big nights out, with its sleeveless fit and flare silhouette and high-drama, floor-sweeping hem.
It’s Julia Roberts breaking hearts at the opera with Richard Gere in “Pretty Woman.” It’s Nicole Kidman crooning with Ewan McGregor in “Moulin Rouge,” Marilyn Monroe’s sparkling showstopper in “Gentlemen Prefer Blondes,” and Audrey Hepburn’s Givenchy sleeveless sheath in “Funny Face.” The red dress always creates a memorable moment, and holidays are just the big occasion for one. So kick your festivities up a notch with something as big-drama as the Sandra Plunge Crepe Trumpet Gown by Dress the Population ($198 on nordstrom.com).
Grace Kelly nailed it with her cinched-waisted and sheer-shouldered version in “Rear Window,” just as Anita Ekberg did in “La Dolce Vita” and, lest we forget, how Princess Diana got the world talking with her off-the-shoulder ‘revenge dress’ — the L.B.D. is the fastest way to ignite a party. Long the staple of New Year’s Eve shindigs, it’s also no stranger to Christmas and Hanukkah celebrations, or to office parties and festive dinners. So invest in a worthy and quality design, like the Maryse Cutout 3/4-Sleeve Midi Dress by Equipment ($325 on neimanmarcus.com). The below-the-knee length and keyhole neckline keep things prim and proper at first glance, but the bodycon silhouette and diamond open back and side slash pockets add some sexy daring.
No way is the tree going to be the only thing shining this season. Metallics are tailor-made for this time of year — especially gold. As illustrated by the long, lean, attention-getting machine that is Madewell’s Satin Maxi Slip Skirt ($98 on zappos.com). I love pairing it with a black cashmere turtleneck, or a tonal brown Fair Isle sweater and tweed jacket. Or lean even further into the sparkling nature of things with a bejeweled top.
Cameron Diaz pulled it off like a champ in her role as Amanda in “The Holiday.” In the film, Diaz’s snuggly, low-key luxury wardrobe designed by Marlene Stewart is filled with fantastic cashmere and neutral tones, and in particular, whites. Her cream, fitted cashmere turtleneck is dreamy as all get-out — a là the Chiara Cashmere Turtleneck Sweater ($240 on bananarepublic.gap.com) — and appropriate for any dinner, drinks invitation, or holiday party from now through the end of the year. Wear it with faded denim to brunch just as easily as with a fitted pencil skirt to a girls night out. And really, onward through April, until the birds start chirping about Memorial Day.
