Chic at 60ish!

I adore the holidays. Always have. I love twinkling lights, crisp weather, and crackling fires. Decorations and dressing up. All some of my favorite things! I adore shopping. Searching for the perfect gift—in stores or online—pleasing those I love when I find it. Though life never seems busier, as the song goes, for me this is “the most wonderful time of the year.”

“THE MOST WONDERFUL TIME OF THE YEAR!” Fox scarf at jacquesferber.com; ivory cashmere sweater & cognac leather pants at ralphlauren.com

The same holds true for fashion. Fall’s “lady chic” continues right through the holidays (and into resort and spring). Just add a little glam! The season’s satins and velvets are always tops on my list. Metallics are huge. So is beading and embroidery, and for the first time in ages, sequins look modern and cool. One or two pieces will do the trick—simply take your fall wardrobe and kick it up a notch.

LOOK LIKE A GLASS OF CHAMPAGNE: Collection beaded skirt & belt from ralphlauren.com

Anything minimal is out. So three-years-ago. The look is definitely sparkly. Opulent. Luxurious. Feminine, yet edgy at once. Is it possible to look like a glass of champagne? Bubbly. Sensuous. Sublime. Keep that image in mind as you shop.

‘TIS THE SEASON TO SPARKLE: Red print dress from valentino.com; Vince burgundy sequin skirt & Louboutin pink flowered heels from neimanmarcus.com

Try something flowy, something with movement. Though the little black dress is forever, why not choose something with some sparkle? Or try a shoe in pewter, bronze, or animal skin. Maybe trimmed in pearls, rhinestones or feathers.

“LADY CHIC”=HOLIDAY CHIC: Velvet smoking jackets & black double-breasted tuxedo jacket at ralphlauren.com; NM Collection gold moto jacket at neimanmarcus.com

The flipside is the “smoking jacket” or tuxedo—suddenly looking new again. Evening separates also make a comeback and should now be part of every woman’s wardrobe. Invest in statement pants—velvet, satin or leather—pair them with a soft, frilly blouse or an embellished sweater. Then mix and match all season—and all winter.

THE MEANING OF “WHITE CHRISTMAS!” Diamond & multi-color stone earrings & bracelet from oscarheyman.com; diamond ring, necklace & bracelet from debeers.com

Do not think of leaving home without jewelry, real or faux, it is a must. I love a little sparkle on the ear and wrist. Dangly diamond earrings. An armful of gold bracelets. I also love ropes and ropes of lustrous of pearls or chunky beads. Another great way to dress your outfit up or down—just don’t forget to this is the season of glam.

BEST GIFT OF ALL! On our way to a day in NYC–my daughter Lauren, son-in-law Steve & precious granddaughter Margot–if you have kids 5+ do not miss “Aladdin” on Broadway–what a fabulous production–SPECTACULAR!!

As the holiday season begins, surround yourself with family and friends, then shower them with the glow that comes from feeling gorgeous. The real meaning of radiance. Count your blessings. Celebrate. To each and every one of my readers, my warmest wishes for wonderfully chic holidays—enjoy every beautiful moment~ Ellyn Golder Saft