Brian Maynor December 5, 2013

The holidays are here!  We can’t deny, postpone or avoid them anylonger.  The time has come to deck the halls, make your gift list andpull out your party clothes.

Every year there are key pieces that make a holiday outfit special andunique from every other party ensemble and this year is no different.  Here are two inspiration looks using some of this year’s main holidaytrends:  

1.    Fur & Feathers.  Two of fall’s biggest statements willcontinue into the holidays.  While it is perfectly acceptable andfashionable to don a fur or shearling overcoat, there are ways toembrace the trend in unexpected ways.  Skirts, handbags, bracelets andaccessories offer fur and feather accents that will spice up any LBD.

2.    Sheer.  Even in the dead of winter showing skin is still atrend.  Just like leather panels, sheer panels are a great way toembrace the look without taking it too far.  Dresses, tops and evenskirts offer options that keep you on the cutting edge while maintaining your dignity.

3.    Sequins.  Tis the season to sparkle.  Sequins are a holiday must and have been for many years.  Ladies, whether you opt for a fully sequined dress or just an accented clutch this year the guys canembrace the trend as well.  Several runway shows featured sequinedblazers, shirts and shoes.  Don’t let the party pass you by this yearguys.  It’s time we sparkled too.

4.    Metallic.  From outfits to makeup metallic palettes are agreat alternative to sequins for some seasonal shine.  This isdefinitely a toned-down version of sequins, but perfectly on trend.  Guys if sequins have you running for the hills, opt for a metallicblazer, shirt or pair of glittered slippers.  They will elevate everyoutfit whether it is jeans and a blazer or a tuxedo.

5.    Burgundy.  A carryover from last year, burgundy will beanother hot color this season.  An alternative to the ubiquitous holiday color combo of red and green, burgundy definitely showcases a moresophisticated palette.  My personal favorite is the burgundy leathermotorcycle jacket.  For you next event, especially one with a ‘creativecasual’ dress code, try switching out your blazer for a fitted, polished leather motorcycle jacket.  They are not just for bad boys this season.

Now that the holiday are in full swing it is time to embrace them, andwhat better way than planning your next party ensemble.  Every one ofthese trends can move fluidly from the office party to charity event and are interchangeable elements for even the most basic and classicholiday outfit of black pants and a white shirt.  

Click on the images below to learn more about the outfit.

I am always curious to hear from you and what you see in the workplace.  Send your questions, comments and pet peeves to [email protected].   Also find each of these storyboards athttp://brianmaynor.polyvore.com with links to purchase each item.

About Brian Maynor

Brian Maynor has built a reputation as one of the leading style coachesin the Southeast and is quickly expanding his eponymous company, BRIANMAYNOR and his FIND, FLATTER & FLAUNT line of image consultingservices. A professional with a fresh, upbeat and down-to-earthpersonality and boundless creative energy, he works frequently with with local celebrities; Fortune 500 companies and nonprofit organizations;modeling agencies; fashion designers; production companies; recordlabels; media and individuals. A regular contributor to various fashionblogs and online communities, Brian Maynor is one of the most trustedand recognized style experts in the region, utilizing his education andtraining as a broadcast journalist to serve as a style lecturer, emcee,and commentator for over a decade. He has appeared at fashion shows,expos, and charity fundraisers, as well as events with big brands likeBanana Republic, Ann Taylor, Chico’s and Macy’s. His approach isinnovative, creative and fashion-forward, balancing fresh, modern styles with classic pieces to keep one’s look grounded. To learn more, visit http://www.brianmaynor.com.