TORONTO – Is it the season to save… or splurge?
Whether splashing out on an all-new ensemble or simply seeking the perfect accessory, the holidays are prime time to inject a little flair into your wardrobe.
But looking good doesn’t have to come with a hefty pricetag – or mean a limited shelf life. Investing in key pieces can help ensure you stay stylish long after the holidays are wrapped.
KEY TRENDS: Faux fur can infuse a fashionable dose of cosy comfort into holiday attire.
Liv Judd, Toronto market editor for LouLou magazine, said texture helps to add warmth, and faux fur is an easy way to do so without putting a big dent in your wallet. What’s more, it can be interwoven into a myriad of ensembles from casual cool to cocktail chic.
For example, a shaggy faux fur coat could be worn atop an evening gown or dressed down with boots and jeans for a boho-inspired look, she suggested.
Tara Wickwire, director of public relations for Gap Inc. in Canada, said fur detailing is popping up in a range of accessories, including trapper hats, scarves, stoles and trim on mittens and gloves, as well as outerwear pieces such as vests and shearling bomber jackets.
“For an instant update, you can layer it easily and it’s warm, highly functional,” she said.
As for more snuggle-worthy style alternatives, Wickwire said chunky, voluminous sweaters harkening back to the ’80s and ’90s are making a resurgence. She suggested pairing the oversized knit sweaters with a skinny leg.
A vivid array of bold, bright hues was seen in the warmer months, and Judd said colour is still one of the freshest trends heading into the holidays.
“It’s really bold jewel colours: very fresh and very decadent,” she said, showcasing looks at LouLou’s downtown office including a fiery-red spaghetti strap dress, cobalt blue top and shimmering sequinned emerald green dress.
Prepare for a fashionable flashback when searching for a new dress for the holiday soiree. Wickwire said ’60s-inspired silhouettes reminiscent of the stylish retro drama “Mad Men” continue to have an influence, as seen in shifts and one-shouldered numbers.
Whether accenting a purse, dotting a dressfront or used to fuller effect on vintage-inspired blouses, lace is an easy way to add an ultra-feminine, romantic touch to festive fashions.
The delicate sheer, patterned fabric works best when paired with a menswear-inspired piece to balance the look, Wickwire said.
“Mix a really feminine top with a great pair of jeans or more masculine trousers and then you have a really put-together look that’s more on point with the season.”
If you are going to opt for lace, Judd suggests investing in black or nude-coloured items.
“I would stay away from red or anything pink because the quality of (lace) is so delicate, and it can look a little bit cheap.”
SAVE: If you aren’t able to shell out for a whole new outfit or a big-ticket item, consider a more affordable accessory.
Judd said this season’s clutches are “really fun and playful,” ranging from feather-covered purses to lace-accented creations.
“You don’t have to spend a fortune for your credit card, your lipstick and your house keys,” she said. “You have a little bit of a statement maker you can wear with your dress.”
Judd said earrings are another great add-on, with everything from vintage-inspired dewdrop-shaped pieces to ornate chandelier earrings in the mix.
Layering necklaces of varying lengths is a fun way to update the ensemble while simultaneously adding some edge, said Wickwire, who also suggests adding cuffs or an oversized cocktail ring to accessorize.
In clothing, Wickwire said a silk novelty top is a great way to add a touch of colour and it can pair with a blazer, skinny jeans or black slacks. For those looking to spend a bit more for a slightly higher-end look, silk or sequins may be an alternative.
Depending on your budget, shoes can be seen as a cost-saver or an investment, but are another way to incorporate trends and add dazzle.
Judd said a shimmering pair of peep-toe heels can easily translate from day to night whether paired with a cropped dark skinny jean or an evening dress.
For those favouring more of a classic look, Judd suggests opting for a nude platform heel which help elongates the leg and also offers comfort.
SPLURGE: If you have a bit more cash in your clothing budget, funnelling your funds into a classic piece rather than a one-time wear item can help lengthen the life of your new find.
Judd suggests investing in something timeless like a little black dress which can offer versatility to the wearer.
For example, adding opaque tights can make the look more conservative, and it can be transformed into a chic new ensemble by adding a hint of bling around the neck and changing shoes.
“Once you find the perfect black dress for you, you should buy it no matter what the price is. (But) I say that within limitations,” Judd said.
“If you find a $500 perfect little black dress, I would say buy it. Don’t wait because you’ll always regret (it).”
Wickwire said a silk dress can be the perfect office-to-evening transition piece. Just add jewelry and a black cardigan for a night out.
But it isn’t just about party attire: For outerwear, Wickwire suggested purchasing a pea coat in a classic hue like navy or grey or a camel wrap coat.
Regardless of the amount you’re spending on the latest addition to your wardrobe, Wickwire said consistency is key.
“When you go into stores and you’re considering making a purchase you really have to envision this item with everything in your wardrobe,” she said. “Try to keep a theme going and not be all over the map with your trends.”
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Online:
Gap Canada: http://www.gapcanada.ca
LouLou: http://www.louloumagazine.com
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