Finding Your Real(istic) Holiday Style

By Brian Maynor

 

The holidays are a special time of year that has a way of bringing out a general sense of lavishness, which is fine, but is that real life or simply a fantasy?

Walk through any store or open your email and instantly you’re bombarded with beautiful, sophisticated and glamorous outfits, decorations and images of elaborate holiday parties.  They’re beautiful and capture our imagination of what the holidays represent, but how many velvet blazers, tux pants and sequined cocktail dresses are you really going to need in four weeks?

As much as I love the idea of a holiday season where every party is an editorial fashion spread that simply isn’t my life.  Like everyone, I have a full calendar, but it’s definitely more on the casual, low-key side of life.

So instead of filling my closet with statement pieces I rarely get to use, this year I’ve decided to focus on building more realistic looks that still give me the holiday glamour I’m craving, but that I can actually wear.  Just because your holiday parties tend to be more relaxed than formal does not mean you have to completely abandon your desire for a festive outfit.

Here are some of my favorite pieces that you can mix and match:

1.    Black wool pants.  They may sound basic, but trust me these are a constant go-to in my closet.  Not only are they the perfect complement to a blazer, sweater, or simple white shirt they completely transform depending on the type of shoe you choose.  Dress them up with a formal shoe or down with a white sneaker.  These will quickly become a lifesaver this season.

2.    A slouchy sweater.  What better way to feel warm and cozy during the holidays than with a slouchy sweater?  There is something very luxurious about it, and like the black wool pants, it’s extremely versatile.  They work well as a standalone piece or layered over a casual flannel shirt, making it the perfect piece to wear to your significant other’s office party Saturday night and also brunch with your best friends Sunday morning.

3.    A tuxedo shirt.  When you are looking for a hint of sophistication in your outfit, but still need it to fit into a relaxed atmosphere, this is a great option.  This piece will instantly add elegance and elevation to anything; even a simple pair of jeans, and it doesn’t matter if it’s a traditional shirt or a non-traditional one.

4.    ‘Fancy’ shoes.  We all have our go-to shoes that we tend to slip on almost without thinking, but if you want to step things up without completely changing your outfit simply switch your shoes.  Lace-up brogues and strappy sandals have the ability to make anything look ‘fancy’.

It wouldn’t be the holidays without glitz and sparkle, but that doesn’t mean you have to fill your closet with party clothes you’ll probably never wear.  Instead take a break from the fantasy season so you can enjoy the real one.

 

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

 

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

 

 

 

I am always curious to hear some of your weekend wardrobe dilemmas and challenges. Please send your comments and questions to [email protected]. Also find each of these storyboards at http://brianmaynor.polyvore.com with links to purchase each item.

 

About Brian Maynor

Brian Maynor has built a reputation as one of the leading style coaches in the Southeast and is quickly expanding his eponymous company, BRIAN MAYNOR and his FIND, FLATTER & FLAUNT line of image consulting services. A professional with a fresh, upbeat and down-to-earth personality and boundless creative energy, he works frequently with with local celebrities; Fortune 500 companies and nonprofit organizations; modeling agencies; fashion designers; production companies; record labels; media and individuals. A regular contributor to various fashion blogs and online communities, Brian Maynor is one of the most trusted and recognized style experts in the region, utilizing his education and training 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 like Banana Republic, Ann Taylor, Chico’s and Macy’s. His approach is innovative, 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.

 

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