How to Style a Holiday Outfit for Less

Merry Christmas! Tis the season of holiday parties, galas, and get togethers. What better time to show off your chic style, and get on your glam!

 Most ladies don't like to go spend a wad of money on styling an outfit you likely will never wear again. I have to admit I have done this a few times: It's called the "Princess Diana" syndrome: wear it once and get rid of it!

A great diversion is to shop your own closet! This is a great way to save some dollars to spend on others instead of yourself.

Chances are you already have what you need to inspire a smashing look. I'm sure just about every female closet has a little black dress, and a pair of gorgeous heels. These items are great foundation pieces to create the rest of your look around.

Try to think outside the box when it comes to a color scheme.  You don't have to stick to the traditional holiday colors of red, green, silver, and gold.

 Break all the rules and be unique!  On a trip to Vegas last year, I found this fabulous 2 tone dress at Ross.  The sparkly pink bodice paired with black, adds a beautiful glittery glow.

If you're missing the finishing touches to your outfit, no problem: Hit up your nearest thrift store! There are several Goodwill stores in the Seattle area, but this time I found the hugest one I've ever set eyes on! It is located close to Safeco field in the Sodo district on Lane Ave. They have a "Glitter Sale" every year for the holidays.

Miss impatience did not want to wait 3 hours for my ticket to be called, so I didn't get to shop the glitter sale. I browsed in the regular part of the store, and much to my surprise I found just what I was looking for. The perfect piece to compliment this dress, a faux fur bolero.

Add a pearl necklace and some shimmery make up and your holiday look is complete.  Elf cosmetics has a clear glittery eye serum that I brush over top of my neutral eye shadow.

Photography: Ruth Faustino

So there you have it, you  don't have to break the bank to dress up for parties. The dress and bolero cost me a total of 20.00.  The heels by coach were on a great sale a few years ago, and the vintage chain bag was a gift from my mother.

I hope this has inspired you to dig in your closet and find some treasures waiting to be worn.  In preparation for holiday festivities, did you use what you had or buy a totally new outfit? I'm sure you will be beautiful in whatever you choose! Until next time,

xo VALERIE