5 Tips on Dressing with Joy

This week I had the joy of attending a women’s event at a local church set to prepare our hearts for the Christmas season.  A sweet friend was the coordinator of the event and asked me to speak 5-10 minutes on holiday fashion during dinner.  It was so much fun preparing 5 Tips on Dressing with Joy for the Holidays and showing off a few holiday looks with a few friends who agreed to model.  Of course I wouldn’t want my sweet readers to miss out on the fun so I’m sharing my tips today!

1 | Plan Ahead

Planning ahead seems like a no brainer right?  Here is the scenario at my house.   The invitation comes in the mail and I clip it to the fridge and may also add to my actual calendar.  I then promptly get caught up in the flurry of Thanksgiving and Black Friday shopping and decorating my home for Christmas.  Next thing I know it’s December and I realize the event is….tomorrow and I have no idea what I’m wearing.

By planning ahead you will remove that stress plus you can also evaluate whether you have a little double dip opportunity!  I have a party this Friday here in town but will then head to Dallas for another party with a totally different group of friends.  You can bet I will be recycling an outfit!

2 | Decide on a Budget

I know not so fun. This time of year my spending can seriously become such a hazard. I cannot tell you how many times I have failed to follow tip number one.  I rush out on my lunch hour on the day of an event and head to a local boutique where I spend a lot of money grabbing whatever I can find.  For me this often leads to buyers remorse!  Not only because I spent too much but often I grab something in a rush that I don’t even love and will never wear again.

I’m not saying you shouldn’t grab a pricey piece here and there, in my opinion spending my dollars on classic staples is the way to go.  Adding a trendy or fun piece to be worn only occasionally or for a one time event should not break the bank.

3 | Shop Your Closet

Definitely start with shopping your own closet.  Do you already have a great black dress or some fabulous velvet pants?  Maybe you have a killer pair of shoes you save for fun occasions or a stunning jacket.  Look for an item you already have before heading out to shop for something new.

4 | Add a Statement Piece

Now it’s time to pull your outfit together.  Do you need to find a statement piece to add to something you already have?  Invest in a great classic piece as a basic and add fun pieces to pull together a holiday look.  Maybe a fun sequins tee or a great jacket would complete your look.  Or maybe all you need is a statement piece of jewelry to freshen up an classic piece.  You can never go wrong with a killer pair of shoes!  I always say, when in doubt wear red!

Earrings | Sequins Tee | Jacket | Shoes (similar here|here) | Velvet Pants

5 | Choose Comfortable and Confident

We have all done it right?  You pick the killer outfit that might be just a little too snug but looks amazing after you slither your way into some Spanx.  Or you grab those amazing heels even when you don’t wear heels on the regular?  Take my word for it, you will look your best if you choose a holiday outfit you feel both comfortable and confident in.  My advice is always to stay in your comfort zone!  Choose a color you love that always makes you feel like your best self.  Always remember your best accessory will be your smile and being confident in what you are wearing will allow you to focus on being joyful.

Great Jeans | Statement Necklace | Killer Booties | Red Sweater | Fun Clutch

Bonus | Practice Self Care

Not really going to help you choose and outfit, but the holidays are no time to slack off on taking care of yourself. It is so easy to get caught up in the season and begin burning the midnight oil but making sure you get plenty of rest will go a long way in helping you feel your best for holiday parties.  Continue to drink lots of water which will keep you hydrated and give your complexion a fresh glow.  Treat yourself to a manicure or have your makeup done for a special evening.  Be sure to keep those endorphins up by not slacking on your regular fitness routine!  Don’t trade your quiet time for anything else.

Most importantly, remember the magic is not in what you are wearing but in the joy you radiate from the inside out.

Tomorrow is December 1st!  Take these tips and have your best dressed, most joyful holiday season!