Holiday Dress

Thanksgiving has passed and the Christmas carols are swarming the radio stations, which means it's time for tons of holiday parties. With loads of invites you're destined to need a few new dresses (or accessories to revamp old ones)! Here are a few hints to get you started while browsing the Internet or searching through the racks.

1. Purple.
Like royalty, purple is the color of sophistication for the season. There are tons of dresses out this season in a range of purples, from plum (Terani Purple Strapless Dress- Courtesy of edressme.com) to magenta (Wineberry Strapless Ruffle-Front Dress- Courtesy of Express). For more violet purples there's room for mixing and matching colors with accessories so try an equally bold belt or a printed shoe (Black Halo Belted Minidress- Courtesy of edressme.com). If you’re planning on jazzing up something you already own, purple accessories (such as a clutch or belt) is the perfect way to make your ensemble fresh.

2. Lace
Black lace is making a mark again this season, especially when incorporated as a subtle touch, making it the perfect way to revamp last years dress. (Birdseye Pattern Pantyhose- Courtesy of neimanmarcus.com) Try pairing lace pantyhose with any solid cocktail dress. The look works best on minidresses or fitted silhouettes with minimal frill, however you can maximize the femininity of any dress by belting the waist.

3. Babydolls
After several seasons of the bubble hem, the babydoll fit is making a comeback in both flirty and sexy styles. If you're going for sweet and innocent, try the look in soft colors or with a touch of sparkle (Betsey Johnson Glitter Babydoll Dress- Courtesy of edressme.com) (Myne Tu Tu Dress- Courtesy of edressme.com) The babydoll can also be more sophisticated (or sexy) in dark or sparkly fabrics (Nanette Lepore- Black Disco Inferno Dress- Courtesy of chickdowntown.com). For a more mature look avoid styles with extra tulle or poof.

4. One-Shoulder
Making its start last season, the one-shoulder is trickling into winter collections. The best part about the style is that you need minimal accessories. Any eye-catching earrings or bracelet will be enough with this already complete look. For more low-key take, try a tiered or ruffled style (T Bags Jewel One-Shoulder Dress- Courtesy of chickdowntown.com). If you’re looking to be a bit more edgy, a Grecian style with gladiator heels is more than appropriate for a holiday soiree (Alice+Olivia Draped One-Shoulder Dress- Courtesy of shopbop.com). Finally, for a real show-stopping take on the one-shoulder, try a fitted silhouette (Nicole Miller Ruched One-Shoulder Dress- courtesy of edressme.com). There are some one-shoulder and asymmetrical dresses out that have sharper lines for those who wish to be bold. Be thoughtful when purchasing these styles however, they will be more dated come next season (Vera Wang One-Shoulder Broach Dress- Courtesy of bluefly.com).

Happy shopping! And remember, confidence is the sexiest thing you can wear.