Feeling Festive? Dazzling Holiday Party Picks

The holidays are upon us! This is my favorite time of the year because you can be a little “extra” with your look and no one will bat an eyelash extension at you. Go ahead and rock those sequins, jewel tones and velvet; it’s the holidays, after all!

I’m thrilled that shimmering fabrics and luxe velours are on trend this season for all your festive needs. This metallic high-low dress from Banana Republic in Gold will have you covered for all of your holiday happy hours and parties. I’m a huge fan of Banana Republic’s size range, which goes from 0-20, as well as offering Tall and Petite sizing.

It’s hard to go wrong with a classic shift dress like this sparkling black sequin number that you can find at Swank Boutique. The open back gives it some added sex appeal while the ribbon tie adds a bit of sweetness. 

If you want a knockout piece that says “I’m not really trying” whilst also winning the best dressed award at the holiday party, then look no further than the Free People Light is Coming Duster. I’m in awe of the intricate details on the floral trim and tassel belt. Wear it with your favorite little black dress or throw it on with some jeans and you will be the belle of the ball anywhere you go. 

Another fabulous way to add some sparkle to your holiday look is with hair accessories. Piling on multiple oversized barrettes is all the rage right now and H&M has some of the most adorable styles I have seen. These ruby-red beauties will elevate your look while making you feel like you’ve just had your hair done by the latest celebrity stylist. 

If you would like to go more modern and, dare I say, futuristic with your jewelry for the holidays, I am currently swooning over these Jolie Drop Earrings from Kendra Scott. They are available in three gorgeous colors, Indigo Illusion, Grey Illusion and Dichroic glass, and the shining radial silhouette is meant to accentuate your own natural glow. What more could you hope for this holiday season (besides world peace, of course)?

Those who know me know that I’m obsessed with a classic smoking loafer. You can wear them in any season and they just never seem to go out of style! In my opinion, Birdies makes the absolute best modern version in so many variations that it’s nearly impossible to choose a favorite. But here goes, my favorites are the Starling in calf hair Cheetah and the crushed velvet Heron in the fabulous jewel-toned Ruby. Both styles will add a touch of pizazz to any holiday look. When they say treat your feet, they really mean it! There are seven layers of comfort in each pair of shoes, so it’s basically like wearing your slippers out and about. ■

Nicole Zabriskie’s resume since her 1999 graduation from Mizzou lists stints with Ralph Lauren, Dolce & Gabbana, Carlos Miele, Diesel and Michael Kors. Today, she lives in Seattle, Washington, and works as a freelance fashion stylist to spend more time at home with her daughters, Zoe and Campbell. As a freelancer, she has worked with luxury brands including Prada, Miu Miu, Lanvin and Alexander McQueen.

@EmeraldCityStylist  /  www.emeraldcitystylist.us