Dressing up for holiday events doesn’t mean you have to blow your budget. Especially this time of year, when you would rather be spending on others (ahem, the season of giving is upon us!). And while I always advocate for treating yo’ self, we all want to stretch our dollars a bit further this time of year.
The holiday season is also when we get together to celebrate friends, family, a job well-done, and year-end. But just because you want to look and feel your best, doesn’t mean you should be buying clothes that won’t see the light of day until this time next year. Earlier this week, I posted about buying a dress on a budget. And today’s outfit offers inspiration about how you can also mix and match clothes you may already have in your closet to create a special occasion outfit.
Granted, the black sequin pants may scream special occasion. Of course, I would argue that they’re just as cool for day wear when paired with sneakers and a white tee shirt. But I wear these pants throughout the year; because everyone needs a little shimmer year-round. And by adding a classic blazer, I’m taking a page from the tuxedo to create a classicly chic, holiday look. To add extra sparkle and interest (key for holiday gatherings!), I’ve completed this look with metallic brocade sandals and glittering statement earrings.
In the spirit of sharing, I must tell you about a shopping event close to my heart. My favorite local boutique, Queen Anne Dispatch, is celebrating their 30th Anniversary with a big blow out! Come shop, sip cocktails, and share in the celebration next Friday evening, November 17th. 30% off the entire store (yes, you read that right), will be offered all day. But the real fun begins after dark, with cocktails and a live DJ. I’ll be there, as will several other Seattle bloggers, local jewelry designers, and the fabulous QAD sales team. Hope to see you there!
Oh, and it’s worth mentioning that both my blazer and sequin trousers are Queen Anne Dispatch finds from years past. Stop in to discover what treasures you can add to your holiday look!
{outfit details}
trousers: Closet (Queen Anne Dispatch) amazing!
blazer: Mural (QAD) similar
camisole: Free People (QAD) similar
heels: Target
clutch: Inge Christopher
earrings: Anthropologie (old)
ring: Nordstrom
Happy Friday! We’re enjoying a lazy 3-day weekend here and, of course, celebrating our favorite veteran on this special holiday. Thanks for reading. ~Jenn
photos by Jessica
You’re hosting the holidays at home…or you’re lucky enough to attend someone else’s home for the holidays. Now what to wear? You want to be festive yet not too dressy, and functional enough to put the finishing touches on your favorite dishes (not-to-mention, clear the dishes…washing is reserved for husbands!). And who are we kidding? Comfort is king when you’re sitting around your table enjoying good friends, conversation, and holiday food!
‘Tis the season to start thinking about your holiday calendar. Although it’s early November, now is the time to begin making your shopping plans and preparing for your holiday festivities. I know, my heart just began racing too!
Another key to simplifying your to-do list: don’t over-think your holiday outfits. While some more formal occasions may necessitate you purchasing a special outfit, most often you can find pieces within your closet to dress-up and make special for all of your holiday events. For example, this stretch jersey pencil skirt is a year-round closet work horse – perfect for both the office and after hours fun. Make this simple skirt more special by adding a festive, intricate blouse in a bright color. I love the cut-out detailing that also runs down the arms and, the ruffled collar complete with ties, makes this one special. Also, the sheerness and cutouts make the conservative cut more sexy; perfect for holiday cocktails. Add some sparkle with a few stand-out accessories, including this clutch in a similar shade, and you’re ready to ring-in the season!
Did I mention there’s a party? In addition to offering a stellar discount on all the goodies in their store, Queen Anne Dispatch also hosts a kickin’ party Friday evening; complete with a DJ, drinks, and snacks. I’ll be there shopping – hope you can stop in!
The brand of this sheath dress is “Pool to Party” and it couldn’t be more aptly named! After a day at the pool, what better to slip on over a suit to head into an evening soiree?! So effortlessly chic, especially with the bronze leaf detailing at the neck. And, you can wear this dress casually with a flat sandal (as I’ve done here), or create a dressier vibe by adding a wedge espadrille or strappy heel…couldn’t be easier!
As stated 
For my outfit and more Independence Day style, stop in at 
Wishing you a fun-filled and safe Independence Day. Cheers to the long summer weekend! Thanks for reading. ~Jenn
Can you believe that Independence Day is around the corner? And it’s a 3-day weekend too?! The 4th of July is my absolute favorite holiday. No gifts; just sunshine, good food and friends, and fireworks!
In honor of summer and to get you in the holiday spirit, I’ll be sharing some outfit inspiration for the remainder of the week. Today’s outfit demonstrates that you don’t have to be so literal when planning your holiday attire. While I admire those people that pull out an entire stars and stripes outfit for the occasion, you can also mix and match clothes already in your wardrobe, yet still be festive. Pairing blue and white (white jeans are a staple for my summer wardrobe) and adding a pop of red is a fun way to be patriotic. Go the extra mile, and find some accessories that really get you humming the Star Spangled Banner.
My entire outfit can be found at 
