Vintage accessories can pull an outfit together.

By MARIA WALDEN SULLIVAN
Owner, Vintage & Vogue Boutique

It’s that time of year again, ladies, when holiday festivities take place — whether it’s going to an office party, fancy night out on the town, informal gathering with friends or private shindigs.

Instead of pulling out the standard “holiday wear” we always put on this time of year, try one of the season’s hottest styles for 2011.

Perfect choices include single shoulder dresses, baby doll cocktail dresses and maxi dresses for casual and dressy occasions. Rich color is making a major comeback this holiday season, as we go beyond just “go-to” black. Formal wear for holiday parties is bold and fashion-forward in jewel tones such as radical red and emerald green.

Long dresses are always a classic way to turn heads. For cocktail parties, slip into a strapless baby doll dress in an eye-catching color like hot pink or royal blue.

Alternatively, classic black paired with white is also a good choice for holiday formal wear. Consider all shades, including pale black and deep ebony along with winter white and ivory. Want to have even more fun? Try a “black and white and chic all over” style with plaids, polka dots and patterns to create a fun and festive look.

Vintage accessories such as “Aurora Borealis” earrings and bracelets provide the needed “bling” to pull the entire outfit together.

While holiday parties provide an opportunity to express yourself, avoid too much of a good thing. Corporate parties are not the venue for low-cut gowns or mini dresses that land several inches above the knee. Avoid excessive accessories and maintain a sense of decorum, especially if corporate holiday parties include clients.

Private parties, on the other hand, are an opportunity to sparkle. Fitted gowns with a short train are sure to set the room ablaze. Dare to reveal a bit of décolletage or wear a mini dress to show off shapely legs. Dresses of all lengths are in vogue for the 2011 holiday season — there’s no one perfect length this year.

Keep in mind that a vintage cashmere or fur wrap or opera coat is a great way to add interest to any holiday outfit as you fight off winter winds and chilly nights.

With glamour in mind, evening gowns featuring hand-sewn embellishments, sequins and metallic mesh inlays are sizzling choices for holiday parties. Old Hollywood is making a comeback, and you can find some authentic types in vintage stores such as Vintage and Vogue.

But the best fashion accessory is always confidence. So let your inner beauty radiate this holiday season – no extra “bling” or dazzle needed.

Maria Walden-Sullivan is the owner of Vintage & Vogue boutique,  located at 55 Park Square in Roswell, Ga. For more information call 678-495-4483 or visit vintageandvogueclothing.com.