by Angela Huang
1. Extremely Formal
For those girls who have extremely formal events, this Monique Lhuillier dress is perfect for the holidays. The blue, almost tribal-like Art Deco patterns resemble delicate snowflakes falling down into fresh snow. To enhance this ice princess look even further, add statement earrings. Tip: For this dress, as the neckline is so delicate, avoid necklaces. They would just weigh down the entire look and ruin the weightlessness of it all.
Monique Lhuillier Short-Sleeve Deco-Embroidered Gown; $6,995; bergdorfgoodman.com
Oscar de la Renta Silver Crystal Earrings; $390; neimanmarcus.com
Stuart Weitzman The Nudist Sandal in Pan Goose Bump Nappa; $398; stuartweitzman.com
2. Party Girl
For the girl who needs an outfit that takes her from dinner party-appropriate to club-worthy in the same night, this mini-dress is the ideal transitional piece. Layer on a boyfriend blazer for a put-together dinner ensemble and shrug it off for the dance floor where the intricate beading will catch the light and make you the life of the party! With such a statement dress, keep other pieces and accessories simple and in solid colors. However, don’t be afraid to use solid colors other than your basic neutrals. A dark cranberry crossbody bag can lend the perfect splash of color!
Anna Sui Deco Embroidered Tulle Dress; $470; net-a-porter.com
Allsaints Rox Blazer; $468; us.allsaints.com
Stuart Weitzman The Nudist Sandal; $398; stuartweitzman.com
3. Ultimate Fashionista
Who doesn’t like a little drama and attention during the holidays? For the ultimate fashionista and daredevil, pair an ostrich feather skirt with a midnight blue satin camisole, along with sparkly silver booties. To prevent this from looking too childish, just slip on a tailored jacket for instant sophistication and masculine elegance. Shake those tail feathers and dance the night away!
Elizabeth and James Feather Hem Dress; $495; intermixonline.com
Brunello Cucinelli Fringe & Monili Chain Long Vest; $3,245; bergdorfgoodman.com
Edie Parker Fiona Confetti Acrylic Clutch Bag; $1,595; bergdorfgoodman.com
Saint Laurent Babies 40 Central Cut Bootie in Silver Metallic Glitter Fabric; $1,145; ysl.com
4. Good Impression
Sometimes, the holidays mean meeting your partner’s family for the first time. That means you have to leave a good impression. How do you do that? Dress conservatively, but not necessarily business formal. The length of your dress should be at the most three inches above your knee and try not to show too much skin. However, that doesn’t mean you have to give up style for a good impression! Experiment with different textures and classic combos like a navy lace gown and a pair of brown leather riding boots. Finish your look with some classic accessories and voila! With this combo, setting the wedding date may come sooner than you thought!
Kalinka Short-Sleeve Lace Cocktail Dress; $1,250; bergdorfgoodman.com
Vince Camuto ‘Basics’ Cuff; $48; shop.nordstrom.com
Gianvito Rossi Leather Side-Zip Knee Boot; $1,745; bergdorfgoodman.com
5. Bombshell Look
If there is a special someone in your life and the two of you are going out to dinner or going to someplace special, you—without a doubt—have to look like a bombshell. For this look, incorporate two sensual fabrics or textures: satin and (faux) fur. The satin slip dress is long enough to be decent yet somewhat provocative, while the fur adds opulence and—most obviously—warmth! Top this off with a pair of killer shoes and you’re ready to go!
3.1 Phillip Lim Stretch-Satin Slip Dress; $650; net-a-porter.com
By Malene Birger Zannaz Faux Fur Coat; $695; net-a-porter.com
Rebecca Minkoff ‘Leo’ Envelope Clutch; $95.00; shop.nordstrom.com
Aquazzura Lola Lace-Up Elaphe And Leather Sandals; $1,165; net-a-porter.com