Holiday Dressing

With family events, Christmas parties, New Year's Eve and everything else on the horizon, it's easy to get overwhelmed by dress shopping.  I've broken down the best dress trends for this holiday season and included some affordable options...

Sparkle

Sequined dresses are everywhere and what better way to stand out at a holiday party or on New Year's Eve.  See the above nude UO dress ($89) or tweed Anthropologie dress ($268).

Sleeves

Whether it's one sleeve or two, long-sleeve dresses give the perfect mix of sophisticated and sexy, and are perfect for the colder weather.  Above we have black tulle BCBG ($228) and tan taffeta J.Crew ($295).

Velvet

Velvet is the standout fabric for Fall 2010, so it's only fitting that velvet dresses are available in nearly every style, color and price point.  Bebe has the blood red one-shoulder ($149), and J.Crew has a more casual plum, cap-sleeved option ($148).


Bold Colors

Forest green, electric blue, bright purple and hot pink...you can find dresses in any color this holiday season.  As long as they have a little bit of sparkle or shine, you're set.  J.Crew does bright green ($695) and BCBG has a sultry blue dress ($378).


Form-fitting

Fortunately or unfortunately, short and tight dresses seem to be all over the place this season.  Reserve these for a wild NYE out rather than the office holiday party.  Above - gold & knotted from TopShop ($100); red with a mesh yoke from BCBG ($348).

Photos: bcbg.com, topshop.com, jcrew.com, bebe.com, anthropologie.com, urbanoutfitters.com

Lovely Lara

Lara Stone is one of the most beautiful models of the moment and has an amazing, healthy-looking body.  I saw this editorial from Vogue China, December 2010, and fell in love with it and her (again).  I want all of these dresses.

Photos: fashiongonerogue.com

Street Style

As much as I love red carpet fashion and editorial glamour and drama, I think every day street style can be so much more inspiring.  Street style makes runway and red carpet more accessible, and whether it's celebrities or anyone else, it's exciting to see how different pieces are used to personalize outfits.  Here are some great ss finds...

Photos: Style.com, Fashiongonerogue.com