Christmas Inspiration

Can you believe in exactly three weeks, it will be Christmas? And in four weeks, it will be a brand new year? Neither can I--this year's gone by pretty fast. It's hard for me to grasp that over six months ago, I graduated from high school and I started my freshman year of college nearly four months ago. I guess I can understand what my parents think when they say that just yesterday I was playing dress up and enjoying elementary school! Well, I can't deny it anymore--the calendar says December and it's definitely time to start getting ready for Christmas. I already have a mini tree on my desk, I've been listening to Christmas music on Pandora and enjoying the seasonal Starbucks drinks (peppermint mocha frappuccino, anyone?) Now it's time to start dressing for the occasion!

I put together two outfits--one to wear on Christmas Day, celebrating the holiday with family, opening presents and taking part in other traditions; and one to wear to a festive party or special event.
First up, the party outfit. Instead of sticking with the usual dress or miniskirt, why not try a pair of polished shorts? The AE Sequin Party Shorts ($49.50, online only) are the perfect glammed-up shorts--they're black, which looks great with everything, and sequins are definitely appropriate for the season! Pair them with a simple open cardigan, such as Hollister's Solana Beach cardigan in red ($39.50), and a cute ruffly tank (Westward Beach, $24.50, pink). Don't forget the tights (in black) and a pair of stand-out shoes (try the Nine West Felma in dark red from Zappos.com, $62.27) and you'll be sure to turn heads at any party!
For a simple but adorable outfit that'll look great in all the family photos you're sure to take on Christmas, try a wintery cardigan, like the AE Snowflake Toggle Sweater ($69.95). If you'd prefer to skip out on the red-and-green-overload that this season tends to bring, just buy the sweater in new bell navy--the snowflake pattern will still make it work. Layer a basic white cami underneath (AE Lacy Cami, $24.50, chalk), throw on a pair of light wash destroyed skinnies (AE Skinny Jean, $49.50, medium vintage destroy) and you're ready to exchange gifts!
Of course, no outfit is complete without a few (or a lot of) accessories. The holidays are all about sparkle and shine, so make sure your extras reflect that. For a party, don't leave without a pretty clutch, such as Coach's Madison Leather Checkbook Wallet in silver ($238)--it has enough room to store your essentials, such as credit cards and ID, plus some breath mints for that kiss under the mistletoe! For the big day, don't skimp on the jewelry. Try something simple but blingy, such as the AE Love Script Necklace ($15.50) or the AE Sparkle Fringe Drops earrings ($15.50). Either will help you stand out and shine on this special day.

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas!

Add a Little Shine to Your Holidays

That great LBD or new red cardigan will look great this holiday season...but don't forget the accessories! The holidays are the perfect time to add a little sparkle and shine to your look and accessories are the best way to do this.

HAIR: Make even the simplest hairdo look stunning with a cute headband or sparkly barrettes. A curly updo looks great with a few tiny rhinestone clips pinned in and a half-up style pairs well with a big shiny clip to hold it all up. Even a pin-straight, down look can be taken up a notch by adding in a thin headband adorned with a big bow. You'll look just like a present!

JEWELRY: Of course you know that jewelry's meant to stand out, but Christmas and New Year's are the perfect excuse to break out your most extravagant necklaces, bracelets, earrings and rings. One of my favorites in stores right now is the AE Rhinestone Statement Necklace ($22.50) from American Eagle. Don't be afraid to go bold and show off your wild side with all kinds of jewelry. If you're a little nervous, try something sparkly that's on the smaller side or wear a simple bracelet with big gems. Almost anything goes, so have fun!

MAKEUP: The December/January issue of Seventeen magazine (currently on newsstands) has some great tips to pump up your look for parties this season. For a simple take, try a metallic eyeshadow, such as CoverGirl's Platina (a silvery grey) and Golden Sunrise (a coppery gold), with black eyeliner and mascara. To show off your lips, pick a berry-colored lipstain--it has all the intensity of lipstick but won't fade or rub off when you eat and drink (CoverGirl's Outlast Lipstain is a great option, with tons of colors). For a more poppin' look, glue little jewels on the corners of your eyes (use the glue that comes with false lashes). Everyone's eyes will be on you!

Don't be content to fade into the background at parties this year--sparkle and shine with some simple accessories!