COLUMN: Easy ways to dress up for the upcoming holidays
The holiday season is here! As classes start winding down and suitcases get dusted off, we can’t help but daydream of our much-needed break from school. It’s finally time for family gatherings, crackling fires, holiday goodies and of course, holiday parties!
Ah yes, the parties. There is the work party, the family party, the New Year’s party, the Christmas party, the just because party … you get my point. With so much going on during this festive season, figuring out what to wear can easily become an unneeded source of stress.
One of the easiest ways to avoid a yuletide meltdown is to find a basic dress that can be dressed up or down and worn to different events. Seems easy enough, but with so many styles to chose from it can be difficult to find the most versatile and flattering dress for you.
Before you go shopping here are some key things to keep in mind:
Look for neutral colors. There is a reason the little black dress is a must have in every girl’s closet. A neutral-colored dress can be paired with endless accessories, giving you more looks.
Look for classic styles. A dress that’s too trendy will have limited wear. Instead opt for a classic style with trendy details.
Look for fit. It doesn’t matter how amazing a dress is, if it’s not right for your body type, chances are it won’t look very flattering. It’s easier to work with what you have rather than against it.
There are four basic body types. The key to dressing according to your shape is to achieve a balanced silhouette. In other words, making the most of your assets and minimizing the flaws. When finding a dress, these are the basic rules for each body type:
Pear Shaped – Toss the skintight dress and look for a dress with an a-line skirt. A fuller skirt will de-emphasize the lower half of your body and create balance. Dresses with empire waists and two-tone dresses (light on top, dark on bottom), will also help de-emphasize a fuller lower-half.
Hourglass – Curvy girls look great in dresses that emphasize the waist. Look for v-neck wrap dresses or dresses that have an accented middle. It will create a more defined waist and accentuate your curves. Avoid dresses with pleats and ruffles, they can add bulk.
Wide on top – If you have broad shoulders, you want to emphasize the bottom half of your body and soften the top. Stay away from boat necks, strapless tops, and halters. Instead try v-necks or scoop necks. Look for full skirts and dresses that have soft flowing fabrics.
Athletic – Athletic body types can get away with wearing almost anything. Look for dresses that add softness to your frame, such as lace, ruffles and flowing fabrics. If you work hard to stay in shape, show it off! A halter or strapless dress is great for accenting arms and shoulders.
If you’re a little thicker in the waist, look for dresses with details at the waist or wrap-styles; they will create a more defined waistline. Skirts that fall above the knee will make your toned legs look longer.
Rummaging through your closet and trying to decide what to wear to holiday parties is a thing of the past. With a great-fitting dress and few fun accessories, this holiday season you can be the best dressed, with the least effort. ‘Tis the season to be jolly indeed!
– jimena.h@aggiemail.usu.edu