Now that holiday parties are in full swing, you'll need to stock up on a couple of killer outfits to make your grand entrance! This season's hottest styles include sleek and chic metallics, ruffled accents, and tuxedo-inspired black and white ensembles for a showstopping look. When you're ready to strut your stuff in a pair of super-high heels, a minidress is the perfect way to show off your gams. Just carry along a long wool coat or trench for your travels, and you'll be well-prepared for party season with plenty of style! Here are just a few of the season's top minidresses we've fallen in love with:
Juicy Couture Black Velour Pocket Tube Dress
This simple dress from Juicy Couture features a ruffled top and flowing skirt to offer plenty of comfort. The ruffled edges add a feminine touch to your look, and the simple design is easy for most body types to pull off. Dress it up with platform heels and an oversizd pendant necklace--don't forget that patent clutch!
Isaac Mizrahi for Target Sequin Tunic Dress
You definitely won't get lost in the crowds with this sparkly number from Isaac Mizrahi. This simple and chic tunic dress is studded with sequins; hold off on the jewelry since you'll be doing plenty of shimmering as you walk around! The dress is cut with simple tank sleeves and a scoop neck, and the flowing skirt pairs well with the latest booties or ballet flats.
Trina Turk Hijinx Dress
When you're hunting for a retro-inspired look, this knit dress from Trina Turkoffers plenty of flashback opportunities! The super-wide bell sleeves feature black and white swirls, and the dress fits snugly around the waist and hips for a figure-flattering look. Wear yours with a pair of ballet flats or high-heeled pumps.
Karta Bow Dress
Try something festive with the Karta Bow Dress. It looks like a simple black dress from afar, but a closer look reveals dozens of faceted-stones studded all over the dress! You'll enjoy plenty of shimmer and shine as you work your way through the crowds, and the dress also features a faux bow detail at the bust. The short puff sleeves are right in line with the season's feminine, Victorian-inspired trends, and the super-short length gives you an excuse to slip into a pair of super-high heels!
Even though purple has made its way back into many a fashionista's closet this season, sometimes adding a touch of the royal color is easier with makeup. If you're opting for a sipmle black or grey outfit, a dash of purple eyeshadow, a glossy purple-red lipstick, or even a few touches of purple glitter are all it takes to jazz up your look! Here are a few great purple picks from our latest rounds at the beauty counter:
Gels Veil Purple Lip Gloss by Smashbox
This delicious honey-flavored lip gloss from Smashbox will help you get that perfect pout with plenty of shine. A light shade of purple-pink easily adds some color to plain lips, or you can choose to top off a natural-colored lipstick with a little gloss and shine. The lip gloss contains shea butter and antioxidants, so it's perfect for protecting your precious pout against the elements this season!
Lip Lip Lip! Purple Lipstick from Givenchy
When the rest of your face is going nude, add a bold splash of color to lips with this Purple Lipstick from Givenchy. Smooth and supple lips are just a step away with this rich formula that will soothe, protect, and enhance those lips just in time for the party ahead. The lipstick will also last long into the late-night hours so you don't have to worry about touch-ups as you dive into the revelries!
MaxiMeyes Mascara in Maxi Purple by Christian Dior
When those peepers need some help and you're ready for va-va-voom lashes, the Christian Dior Maximeyes Mascara can offer just that. Thick and lustrous lashes are just a step away with this quick-drying formula with a purple hue; it's a great way to give you a sultry, yet elegant look. Use it to enhance eyes with purple eyeshadow and black eyeliner for a showstopping look!
Make Up For Ever Purple Eyeshadow
Add a sweep of satiny smooth eyeshadow and really make those eyes pop! The unique texture and easy-glide application of the Make Up For Ever Eyeshadow will help you illuminate and highlight with ease. The matte and iridescent blend means you get a 'block' of color along with a little shimmer and shine!
When stress levels run high over the holiday season - what with all the shopping, decorating, and cookie making to take care of - you need some time to yourself to simply detach from the rushing around and enjoy a pampering session! You don't have to spend a lot of time and money at the spa, especially when your to-do list seems to be growing faster than ever. Just take an hour or two out of your day and put together an at-home spa of your very own! From bath oils to holiday-scented candles, here are a few goodies to keep yourself in a merry holiday spirit:
Get Your Chocolate Fix with Chocoholic Body Butter
The Chocoholic Body Butter from Got2b in 2 Spa is a rich and luscious moisturizer that is (almost) better than dessert. The rich cocoa and shea blend is perfect for balancing out dry and dull winter skin, and you won't get enough of the decadent chocolate scent. Let your inner chocoholic splurge a little--at least it's calorie free!
Enjoy an extra-long shower or bath enveloped in a rich scent of mango and cranberry with this in-shower moisturizer from Crabtree & Evelyn. The formula is rich in antioxidants and Vitamin C so your skin will benefit from a natural glow. After using your regular soap or shower gel, simply use a handful of this moisturizer and rinse off for super-smooth skin and a delectable fruit scent.
Cranberry Pedicure with the FOOTherapy Foot Scrub
Slough away those dry skin cells and leave your toes soft as ever with this Cranberry Mint Foot Scrub from FOOTherapy. It's a natural fiber scrub that will leave your feet invigorated and refreshed. A foot scrub is the first step for your at-home pedicure, and the cranberry mint scent is a refreshing mix, just in time for holiday season!
More Treats for Your Feet: Lucky Chick Sugar Butter Duo
When your feet need exfoliation and a serious moisturizing session, this set from Lucky Chick offers plenty of pampering fun. Use the Peppermint Sugar Foot Scrub to whisk away old skin cells and leave feet smooth and clean. Then massage in the Spearmint Foot and Leg Cream so that your skin can soak up rich moisture! The set even comes with reflexology booties so you can use it overnight for a serious spa session!
Now that holiday events are in full swing, there's no better reason to step out in style with the latest jeweled handbags, clutches, and glitzy purses. Beaded and metallic trends reign on this season, and a simple way to accessorize without jewelry is to add a special touch with a miniature handbag decked out in jewels and other shiny accents. From eye-cathing sequins to luxurious silk, here are just a few treasures we found on our hunt for regal accessories!
La Regale Satin Frame Clutch with Jewel Clasp
Sleek and slim, this beautiful clutch features a simple jewel clasp accent and works as the perfect accessory for your party dress or gown. The smooth satin finish of the La Regale Clutch can easily match up with your special occasion outfit, and it's available in a range of rich colors including royal purple, ivory, brown, and navy.
Inge Christopher Jewel Buckle Silk Frame Bag
When you're looking for a show stopping piece to complete your ensemble, this Inge Christopher Jewel Buckle Silk Frame Bag offers everything you need to pull off a very unique look in style. The flap opening in front features a snap closure, and gathered detailing adds some texture to the piece. It's a work of art with a jeweled buckle and beaded fringe, and the bag can be used as either a small shoulder bag or clutch. It's also available in a range of jewel tones including cranberry, royal purple, turquoise, and plain black.
Elissa Bloom Jewel Pouch
A simple outfit can turn up the 'wow' factor with a an Art Deco inspired piece. The Elissa Bloom Jewel Pouch is decked out in sequins with beaded accents and a 'peacock' style design. It's a mix of ruby, purple and gold and will easily complement a basic black or brown outfit. The pouch is large enough to carry all your basics, and can be slipped into a purse or bag for the night.
La Regale Sequin Clutch
It's cute, portable, and will easily become the center of attraction for your night on the town! The classic purse design of the La Regale Sequin Clutchfeatures a kiss lock closure and beaded straps that can turn it into a modified wristlet. The handle also has a few bead accents, and the entire pouch is covered in bright red sequins.
If you're still deciding how to round out your winter wardrobe with the right pair of boots, don't overlook the J Lo Collection for a few great finds! We have our eyes on a few of these high-heeled boots in both ankle and knee-length styles. From luxe suede to glossy leather, here are a few of our best picks:
J Lo Vixen
Deck yourself out in luxuriously-soft suede with these wedge heel boots, otherwise known as the J Lo Vixen. The rounded toes and covered wedge heel make them plenty comfortable, and you can enjoy the high-heeled look with skinny jeans or your favorite knit minidress. Available in both brown or black, these work great for both your casual and dressy wardrobe.
J Lo Bo
The J Lo Bo is just what you need to step out to the party or event in high style. Break out of classic looks with this unique pair! The boots have scalloped edges and a super-pointed toe. The entire boot is covered in eyelet and grommet detailing, adding a unique twist to the usual knee-high boots for the season. These are available in both bronze leather or plain black.
J Lo Thrill
When it's time to make a tough-girl statement in high style, the J Lo Thrill is the perfect match! This pair of super-soft leather boots feature a pointy toe, covered heel, and oversized buckle with strap embellishments. Pair them up with denim or knits, and get ready to step out in style! The boots are available in both pewter leather or jet black.
J Lo Damask
If you want to jump into the ankle bootie trend this season, the choice is clear with the J Lo Damask boots. This too-cute pair features an extra-high 4" heel and platform sole for extra comfort. Pair it up with your favorite jeans or knit dress this season for an extra-special look. The ankle-length booties are made with super-soft suede, available in black or brown.