Holiday Style Guide!
- Published on Monday, December 17 2012
- Written by Rita Korkounian

Folks, the holidays are in full swing, and, like it or not, your weekends are going to be jam-packed with all sorts of holiday parties. If you’re anything like me, you’d much rather spend your cold and rainy saturday night in PJs, cozying up next to a fireplace, roasting some chestnuts, making some hot cocoa, and watching Elf. But... you’ve made commitments to family members, co-workers, and/or friends, and you can’t break them or else you risk being called a Grinch or a Scrooge (try at your own discretion). Having said that, if you must make a grand appearance at a party, you might as well arrive in style, right?
Whether you are getting dolled up for a Hanukkah, Christmas, Kwanza, and/or New Year’s Eve, I’ve prepared your holiday style guide below. Hope this makes your life a little easier, so you can avoid the parking/shopping madness at the malls! P.S. You can also visit these blogs for more inspiration (as pictured above): Atlantic-Pacific, Pink Peonies, and Viva Luxury.
Black Dresses
Peplum Dress - You can never go wrong with a little black dress. This style from Aidan Mattox has a sheered neckline and peplum detailing around the waist. Based on customer reviews, the dress is very forgiving and hides the flaws -- meaning, it’s a winner!
Sequin Wrap Dress - This sequin wrap dress from Michael Kors has a little more sparkle and shine, which makes it holiday party-appropriate. It looks fabulous on pear shapes and is very curve-flattering. Glamourous and comfortable? Talk about the best of both worlds!
Shirred Sleeveless Dress - Maybe you’re looking for a more clean and simple silhouette. Well, I have the dress for you! This one is sexy and form-fitting and would look great with some baubles and jewels.
Aqua Long Sleeve Dress - Are you a 20-something fashionista looking for something a bit more hip, fun, and trendy? Look no further! This contemporary design by Aqua has a sheer bodice with a polka-dot mesh patterned skirt. Btw... polka dots are so “in”.
Lace Dress Zarita - “Crafted in romantic lace, this DVF dress is the epitome of elegance, with a classic boatneck and sheer sleeves.” Granted, it’s pricey, but well worth the money (quality over quantity). It comes in six colors, but navy is my personal favorite.
Red Dresses
Peplum Sheath Dress - A versatile piece that can easily be transitioned from day to night. This flirty red peplum dress is work-appropriate but can also be worn at a holiday company party. It’s sleek, chic, and classy!
Rosette Open Back Dress - Get ready to reveal your toned legs and killer backside in this short, sweet, and romantic party dress. The dramatic rosette sleeves and open back will definitely catch the attention of onlookers.
Shiny Dresses
Spaghetti Strap Sequin Minidress - A stunning art deco-inspired sequin dress suitable for a fancy New Year’s Eve party. The intricate beadwork, eye-catching pattern, and chic design make it a very bold statement piece.
Sequin Dress Lucianna Sleeveless - “Covered in gilded gold sequins, BCBGMAXAZRIA's embellished Lucianna dress exudes a shining, shimmering, and splendid look for the holiday season.” Nuff said.
Plus Size Dresses
Beaded Blouson Tank Dress - Shopping online is no easy feat. That’s why you should read reviews before purchasing an item. Regarding this dress, one customer said, “The art deco pattern keeps the eye moving from problem areas and the blouson top hides my biggest trouble spot.” That’s enough to convince me to buy this dress!
Illusion Bodice Dress Plus - Fashionable, flattering, and semi-affordable plus-size dresses are hard to come by, so when I spotted this dress, I knew I had to share it with y’all! I love the rich turquoise color and the swirling lace design throughout the dress.
Skirts
Sequin Maxi Skirt - If you have a spectacular set of legs like Angelina Jolie, you may want to flaunt them in this sequin maxi-skirt with a thigh-high split. Just a side note: It is a little risque, so use caution when wearing this dress. Otherwise, get ready to exude sex appeal. Rawr!
Beaded Degrade Skirt - Is it shiny? Check. Does it have beads? Check. Can it be worn multiple times? Check. This all-in-one skirt has edge and sass. It would look great paired with a leather jacket and a pair of ankle strap heels.
Shoes
Shiny Vamp and Heel - Zara has the best shoe collection. Ever. Just check out their online store. You can thank me later. Sorry in advance for putting you in debt. P.S. Their items sell out quickly, so if you like a shoe, don’t wait.
Basic Ankle Strap Heels - I’ve had these shoes for a while now, and they go with just about every outfit. The heel is not too high, the width is perfect (I have wide feet), and they are just about the most comfortable pair of shoes I own. Best of all, you can surely dance the night away in these shoes!
Hope you enjoyed my segment on holiday party style! Have a wonderful holiday season and a happy, healthy, and prosperous New Year! See you in 2013!

Rita Korkounian is a blogger from Los Angeles. She is shy and introverted, but her personality shines through her quirky writing style. She is a lover of all things food, fashion, and music. Coast on over to her blog for life/style inspiration or follow her on Twitter @RitaKorkounian.
