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
These sequin pants are the life of the party! I’ve worn them several times this holiday season; with a dressy top (like here) or dressed-down with a drapey tee and flats. I’m even considering a sweater and sneaker pairing for my next casual night out with girlfriends. I’m an advocate for getting more wear out of the special pieces in your wardrobe…believe it or not, sequins can get a lot of mileage!
Although I’m wearing my “go-to” black, I’ve added a pop of color in this look with red accessories mirrored in a red lip. It’s fun and festive while not being too over-the-top. In addition, the subtle brocade pattern on the skirt gives the outfit more depth, while the fur-lined wrap is the perfect, sophisticated topper for a chilly evening out.
You can find all of Kirsty’s party picks on her 
Although these pants are a jogger (read: “sweatpant-like silhouette”), the sequins inherently elevate them to fancy attire. With the addition of a few special accessories, like the red shoes, metallic clutch, and oversized, gem-stone earrings, this look is entirely party-ready. However, don’t reserve your sequins only for the holidays! I’ve worn these pants with a simple white tee and wedge sneakers for a downtown cool, yet casual look. I love sequins 365 days a year!
This might be cheating a little bit because 
Nothing says that you’re ready to ring in the New Year like a metallic dress. The style of this dress is so simple and chic, yet festive. I’ve added some color with the red lip and shoe (clearly a wardrobe favorite!). Meanwhile, I’ve kept my other accessories in the same grey and metallic tone; allowing the dress to take center stage. The tweed metallic texture of the dress is even reminiscent of the sparkle of champagne.
For some reason a jumpsuit seems to up your style ante, but in reality it takes much less effort in the fashion department to wear because it is simply one piece of clothing, instead of two. I am not sure why I am so devoted and utterly in love with the romper/jumpsuit, I just am. I will admit that using the bathroom is just a bit more effort, clearly not a deal breaker though. Simply add some amazing shoes and jewelry, and your done. It’s like the benefit of a dress without having to think about tights or shaving your legs. Add some flash tattoos, and you might be the coolest girl in the city.