I’m never one to get tired of dressing up for a holiday party, but even I know that sometimes you need a fresh idea. During a recent shopping trip, I paid close attention to the pieces that stood out; textures, colors, and unexpected details; and pulled together a few outfit combinations that feel festive without leaning into anything too cliché. These looks celebrate the season in a stylish, modern, and fun way.

- Remember Pants
It seems obvious but sometimes we forget that pants can be every bit as fun, feminine as a dress or skirt. While in heavy rotation for daytime and work events, they are often overlooked for cocktail parties.
Triple Ring Earrings, Lee Michaels; Lurex Pants, Pilot/Powell; Lurex Top, Pilot/Powell; Jody Candrian Cuff, Jody Candrian (carried at Pilot/Powell); Slingback Pump, Joseph

- Monochrome
Opt for a slightly off holiday color, think olive instead of forest green and maroon instead of Christmas red and then accessorize the entire outfit with similar hued pieces.
Arwen Dress, Angelique; Ostrich Feather Brooch, Etsy; Burgundy Earrings, Revolve; Satin Slingback, Pilot/PowellÂ

- Navy is a Classic for a Reason
Navy is a great color on almost all skin tones. Embrace it and add some sparkle.
Bella Dupion Dress, Peony; Choker Necklace, Tyler and Tate; Crystal Top Handle Bag, Azby’s; Buckle Pumps, Saks Fifth Avenue (canal place)

- The Good Old LBD with Personality Pops
Take any black dress you may already have and make it pop with statement accessories. Gloves feel luxurious and indulgent, and a statement earring will pull it all together.
Ilana Mini Dress, Febe; Estate Cameo Earrings, Lee Michaels; Black Gloves, West London Boutique; Clarit Bucke Heel, Febe

- Fairytale Forest
There’s nothing like a dark, enchanted forest print, and there are several beautiful versions around town. I spotted a gorgeous green floral pant at Peony and the dress below from Febe.
Romper, Febe; Decadence Earrings, Ella Bartlow; Pumps, Bergdorf Goodman
Sale & Event Picks:
Lakeside Shopping Center welcomes Vuori & Anthropologie on Black Friday
Discounted Beauty Bundles, Uptown Charm
Nov. 25 @ 5:45 p.m.: Holly Jolly Stroll, Canal Place Stores (following the Lighting of Canal Street enjoy complimentary refreshments and sweet treats from your favorite stores
Nov. 21: @alicetrahantphillips.art & @shopcbgrey Pop Up, Em’s
Nov. 21: Free Dermware Peel, Earthsavers
Nov. 25 @ 5:45pm: Holly Jolly Stroll, Canal Place Stores (following the Lighting of Canal Street enjoy complimentary refreshments and sweet treats from your favorite stores.
Nov. 30: Afternoon with Santa, Home Malone
Dec. 4: JLNO Holly Jolly Market, Ursuline Academy


