Amidst the hustle and bustle of December, it may be tough to carve out time to look your best. But with parties and family dinners on the schedule, finding the perfect outfit and looking good from head to toe doesn't have to be a huge undertaking.
From unique pieces to classics and statement jewelry, Jefferson City experts share their tips for making this holiday season a fashionable one.
According to Saffees owner Judy Howard, this winter's holiday party outfit is the jumpsuit.
Jumpsuits are popping up in stores all over Jefferson City, and Howard said women of all ages are pulling them off this season.
On the racks of small boutiques and popular retail chains, the one-piece, wide-legged pantsuit comes in mostly solids. In case its distinct shape isn't enough of a statement, some feature flashy belts and patterned tops. The jumpsuit can be a bold choice, and it seems to be a popular one.
For women seeking something more traditional, other trends this winter include lace, fit-and-flare dresses and skirts, pleather, and solids with big accent pieces.
"Lace is still a hot trend this year," said Sonja Thompkins, owner of I Love This Look Boutique on East High Street.
Mari Beth Asmann, sales manager of the Dillard's ladies department at Capital Mall, agreed, saying lace overlay is all over dresses right now - "on long dresses, short dresses and tops."
Jefferson City native, local photographer and busy mom of three Holly Hyde said she's even using lace to dress up her more casual wardrobe.
"I always love layering," Hyde said. "My new favorite way to layer is with a tank that has a drop-tier lace bottom sewn to the hem. It can transform a so-so top into something super cute when the tank is layered underneath."
Other embellishments are also dressing up otherwise plain pieces.
"Glitter and sequins are classic adornments that never go out of style. Don't be afraid to be seen," Thompkins encouraged. "Even at an after-work party, it's okay to wear something a little sparkly or fitted."
For home parties, especially when hosting, Thompkins said being comfortable is important. "Think simple designs but awesome accessories."
"Embellishments are always good for the holiday season," Asmann said. The local Dillard's store carries several brands featuring sparkly detailing. Asmann said she's seeing a lot of neck detail in the store's current offerings.
For Christmas parties, Asmann said, women typically go with short dresses. There are, however, several events in Mid-Missouri that require a more formal long dress as well. Either way, most dresses aren't made for winter temperatures. That's where wraps, furs and covers shine.
"I think that's a real problem for a lot of people," Howard said. "You have to think about what you're wearing over your evening wear."
Furs and faux furs can be a fun way to add warmth and style to a sleeveless dress or top. Saying you'll just "run in from the car" is no way to live.
Make a statement
Perhaps the one thing every fashionista agrees on is the need to accessorize.
"Everybody needs a few statement pieces in their wardrobe," Howard said. Statement pieces do just what their name suggests: the right jewelry can take a plain, tailored dress from day to evening and a simple top from casual to dressy.
Many Saffees mannequins are adorned with layered jewelry, giving customers ideas for dressing up the simplest outfits. I Love This Look Boutique also has several solid dresses and tops dressed up with chunky jewelry.
"Solid pieces are begging for accessories of any kind - jewels, scarves, even brooches are making a huge comeback," Thompkins said. "Most women want to be safe and wear subtle jewelry; but with a solid or plain style, chunky statement pieces will make the outfit."
Choosing the right purse is also important for a finished head-to-toe look. Howard said sparkly clutches, some featuring unique designs and fun clasps, can really add something. And using your oversized everyday purse can really take something away from your glitzy look.
As women browse the racks of local clothing stores, one less obvious trend - based solely on its location - is the back treatment. Dresses and tops are featuring cut-outs, unique fabric details and sheer or lace panels.
In case you haven't noticed, other winter trends are all about boots, fun leggings, textured pantyhose, leather and pleather detailing, palazzo pants, oversized sweaters and fringe trim.
Be practical
Using the same outfit for more than one party or event is doable for the thrifty gal. Local fashion experts suggest changing out all the accessories, including the shoes, jewelry and wrap.
Attending numerous formal events can become costly if you try to buy new every time. Hyde said she's found perfect accessories while perusing her mother's jewelry collection a time or two.
"You can never go wrong with a strand of pearls, in my opinion," she said. "For a fresh take on an old statement, try layering oversized, chunky pearls to make it a more modern look while remaining elegant."
Another tip from Hyde: Ask your friends to loan each other wraps. The trade will keep both your and your friends' outfits looking fresh. Since Hyde has been able to save on some accessories, she can focus on something more important: shoes.
"If I have to pay a little more to have cute and comfortable shoes, then it's worth it. There is nothing worse than a party ruined by feet that are hurting so bad that you want to throw your shoes out the window."
Plan ahead!
Balancing being a mom, wife, employee or boss, and host may seem like too much to handle this holiday season. But Holly Hyde, dedicated wife of Mike Hyde, mom of three children and Posy Creative owner/graphic designer/photographer, has a few tips just for you.
1) Choose your outfit.
"I have had the tendency to focus on the venue for the party, the decorations and the food, while thinking about my appearance last," Hyde said.
Thinking she could carve out an hour just before the party to get her appearance in order has been a mistake in the past.
"There is inevitably last-minute prep work to do that comes up and keeps me from spending enough time thinking about what to wear or how to fix my hair. Before I know it, the doorbell is ringing and I have damp hair and mascara on one eye."
Having learned from her mistakes, Hyde said she now plans her outfit long before the day of the party. She has her jewelry ready, shoes bought and dress ready to go. By trying on the whole outfit ahead of time, she knows if she needs to purchase anything further to make it work.
2) Plan your table.
If you are a busy mom getting ready to host a party, Hyde suggests planning your table at least a week in advance.
"Know what you will use for your centerpiece and décor, and pre-count your dishes to make sure you are prepared with enough."
Getting some things out of the way the night before can also help minimize stress levels. Hyde suggests ironing your tablecloth and even preparing some food items in advance.
3) Delegate.
Hyde's children are ages 14, 7 and 3, and she recommends letting your kids help with decorations if they are old enough. Delegate cleaning tasks as well so they don't all land on you the day of, she said.
"If all these things are done in advance, you will have plenty of time to focus on yourself so that you can feel confident and relaxed when the party begins. Cheers to dry hair and both eyes done!"