“All that Glitters”

We have been writing this article for HQ Magazine for a number of years now and buying for the store for even longer; the best part of all of it has always been and continues to be seeing what’s new.  Every season we think we have seen it all or that we know exactly what is coming next in the fashion evolution, and every season we are still excited by the changes and varying directions that the industry takes us in to keep our wardrobes fresh.  That is the reason that we love this business and why we keep being inspired to write or buy or dress our customers. This season we are going once again on a journey with designers while they create the latest trends in holiday and resort wear. We are loving all of the hot must have pieces as well as the newest in denim, shoes, accessories and jewelry and we intend to let you in on all of it. So sit back, read on and let us help you stay in style this holiday season.

Of course first and most importantly we have to talk about the hot items of the season.  These are the pieces that will instantly update your wardrobe and can be mixed with pieces you already own.  For holiday, these items are a mix of sexy sparkle and pretty sophistication depending on your personal style. First, we have to go with the classic holiday shine that has once again been updated to make sequins and beads look ultra modern.  We are loving all of the sequin and beaded jackets that have a decidedly Chanel feel to them but with a much better price tag.  We are seeing everything from all over embellishment to styles with a less obvious flair.  Either way, we love these paired with our wide leg jeans from summer and fall, with a great bootie or pump for a bit of a more casual holiday look. We also have been seeing a ton of pleats for holiday. Not your mother’s pleated skirts, these are long and flowy in gauzy fabrics worn with booties. We also love pleated tops in the same gauzy fabrics for a sophisticated take on this trend.  Try one of these on with a fitted black pant and a sexy peep toe shoe.  The next hot item will be coming with us into spring so pay attention! Sheer fabrics layered over tops, dresses and skirts for a double layered effect.  For instance a black sequined tank dress might be layered under a sheer dress. These looks are almost a throwback to the 80’s with a modern twist. We love the understated sparkle that the sheer fabric adds.

As always for the holidays, we are also seeing a ton of lurex.  Tops and tanks can be layered under a jacket or blazer for an instant holiday makeover. Change it up this season in a fun color like purple instead of the usual silver or gold.  The last of our favorite must have items this season is the satin pant.  Fluid and chic these sexy yet understated pants can make any holiday look effortless. We are obsessed with navy satin pants paired with a simple white tank, metallic pumps and fantastic jewelry.  So easy yet it makes such a statement….love!

Not to leave out our favorite piece of clothing, this season denim has a few surprises in store as well.  We know that you all have your colored denim from fall, but this season kicks it up a notch with some treatments that make the denim look completely new. We are seeing a ton of waxed jeans in earthy colors that almost look like funky distressed leather pants. They are shaded and faded in all the right places and look completely hip.  We like them paired with a sequin or lurex top for a holiday party for a more downtown feel. We are also seeing classic denim sticking around in both wide leg styles and skinny ankle length fits as well so feel free to integrate all of the pairs in your closet with your holiday looks. Just add a sparkly top and a great shoe for a look that never goes out of style.

Speaking of shoes, this season we are seeing the resurgence of the pump.  For so many fall and winter seasons, boots have reigned but now pumps are back in a big way.  Anything from a closed toe platform pump to a sexy peep toe we are seeing these with dresses and skirts as well as dress pants and denim.  Try a pair on for a feminine look that is just a bit more sophisticated.  We are also seeing a ton of booties.  From sexy platform stilettos to foot friendly wedges this style is definitely sticking around.  They are so easy to wear with wide leg pants or skinny jeans or long skirts and dresses that they are a perfect addition to any shoe closet.

Obviously we cannot write an article about holiday fashion without touching on all the sparkle that comes in the way of jewelry and accessories. These items can take the simplest of outfits from work to a holiday dinner instantly. This season the designers did not disappoint. Reminiscent of Christmas ornaments, we are seeing large pieces of smooth colored glass mixed with gold or silver as large statement necklaces or rings.  While other designers are showing oversized laser cut tiered earrings. While these might be a bit much for some of you, try them on with a simple outfit and no other jewelry for a completely elegant effect.  Another trend we love is colored pearls. They are an easy way to add color to any outfit without being overdone.

As far as handbags, this season is all about the clutch. From simple to spectacular, a clutch is the easiest way to add a bit of chic glitz to any look. Why not add a blinged out bag to jeans and a tank with a great pair of heels and some simple jewelry for a pulled together effect. All of these pieces are great to add to a simple outfit to make any look more festive.

We hope that we helped you to sort out all of the holiday looks this season as your getting ready for all the glitz and glamour that comes with it.  We talked about all the must have hot items of the season, and how to wear them. We also delved into the top trends in denim, shoes and jewelry as well.  We hope you and your families have a safe and happy holiday season and as always we hope we helped you stay in style!  Happy Holidays!!

For those of you that dream of faraway places with sunshine and sunscreen then please read below:

Resort is starting to pop up in our store making a bright and bold statement.  You will need your sunglasses with some of the neon and hot colors hitting the racks.  We are still seeing a lot of the bohemian look but this season it is coupled with a preppier and chic finish.  Sheer printed blouses are still a big focus.  We are seeing them tucked into a clean and classic trouser or short.  Stripes in every shape and pattern are also trending big on tops, dresses and cardigans.  To sneak a peek at things to come, check out our Pre-Sale section.  This section will give you a taste of the flavors coming your way for Resort and early Spring.

Stay in Style featured in HQ Magazine this Winter  

Holiday/Resort

2011/2012

By Jennifer Kortman and Lezli Bradley