Finding something great to wear for parties which are happening all month long in December can be tedious. I usually log onto Pinterest to find inspiration for new looks that's compatible with what's available in my closet. Local blogger Cara McLeay, author of "A Fashion Love Affair" is one my favorite people to follow on Pinterest and Instagram. Her styling choices are both impeccable and relevant. She also mix and matches pieces from a range of price points so you can shop her look comfortably within your budget. Recently, she teamed up with Oakridge Centre's online magazine "The Occasion". I decided to take this opportunity to catch up with her and snatch some quick tips on how she gets holiday ready.
1. What are some key trends for the holiday season to try or look out for?
One of my favourite things to do is spend time on Pinterest or flipping through magazines like Harper's Bazaar or The Occasion to find outfit inspiration, especially for the holidays. Some of my favourite FW14 trends that work perfectly for Holiday are black and white (paired together look so chic, in a dress or pantsuit for a party is perfect!), plaid (all colours are trending, so going for an emerald green hue that was also a hit on the runways will really make an impact), and pastels (a pretty pink dress will certainly make you stand out from the crowd)
2. How do you usually get holiday ready for a party?
I don't wear a ton of make-up day to day, so when I am getting ready for a holiday look, I of course turn to The Occasion's must have beauty items for fall! (Love their find, the Shiseido Automatic Fine Eyeliner, so easy to use, and ads that extra glam factor)
3. What's one thing/item you bring in your bag everywhere you go?
Lip Gloss!! A must for me, and I love the nude/pink lip glass from M.A.C that you can pick up at Oakridge!
4. Would you wear denim to a holiday party? If so, how would you dress it up so it's holiday party appropriate?
YES! I am a big fan of dressing denim up. I would pair a denim button up top with a sequin or tulle maxi skirt, or style straight leg pencil jeans with with a really delicate lace top (something from MaxMara would be perfect, they always have the most feminine, beautiful pieces) with some great pumps (Stuart Weitzman always has dream shoes!)
5. For those who are limited on time to shop for a holiday party look or simply overwhelmed looking for what to wear to a party, what advice do you have to make styling a little easier?
I think the most important part of getting dressed, be it to run errands or to go to a party, is be comfortable! You will then be able to fully enjoy yourself and feel confident without having to pull up a top or pull down a skirt.
Next, be prepared. Especially if you don't have a ton of time to spend in the shops, take a moment before you head out to look through Pinterest or a fashion forward magazine such as The Occasion to find looks that inspire you, and bring the photos with you! You can then hit the shops looking for specific pieces, and ask the staff to help pin point those items. It will save you a ton of time, and you won't waste anytime because you will have a checklist to tick off as you find the pieces you want for your look.
Amy Yew is a contributing columnist at Vancouver Courier and a fashion and style writer. She is also the author of a blog Style du Jour. Tell us what you think and submit any questions you have to [email protected].
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