Holiday Parties

Sarah, our Personal Stylist Manager at Nordstrom Waterside in Naples, FL shares her 10 essential trends and tips for your best holiday season shine.

1 – Novelty Suit Separates. Mix-and-match suit separates will take you through your holiday season seamlessly. Whether you choose a bold metallic like the Topshop blazer pictured, or a luxurious velvet, you can wear them with classic pumps to an evening event, or separate the pieces to dress up your favorite black pants or classic white blouse. (Pictured:Vince Camuto blazer | Topshop blazer)

2 – Bright Lip. The easiest way to elevate your look—and get noticed—is to slide on a saturated, bright lip. Choose a classic red, or sass it up with a berry or pink: you’ll shine either way. My favorite this season is NARS in ‘Heat Wave’; it stays on day to night, so you can go straight from the office to hosting a holiday gathering with no transition necessary. (Pictured: NARS lipstick)

3 – Smoking Slipper. Not just comfortable, the smoking slipper is a throwback style that will give you a finished look, whether with your favorite skinny jeans during the day or a flirty skirt at night. I love their playfulness with a pantsuit, and they can give your feet a rest from the party heels when you need it! (Pictured: Jimmy Choo Slipper | Miu Miu Moccasin | Prada Smoking Slipper)

4 – Peplums. This vintage flair gives a little extra feminine shape, adding curve to your figure while still being comfortable. Pair with your classic black pencil skirt for cocktail, then finish it with your novelty pants and smoking slippers for effortless hostess style. (Pictured: Vince Camuto Top | Yigal Azrouël Blouse)

5 – A Beautiful Clutch. Your day bag just won’t cut it for holiday parties, so embrace the vintage romance of the season and find your favorite embellished clutch to carry to all the get-togethers. Choose one that you can easily fit in your day bag for when you’re on the go. Bonus: you can pull this jewel out during the day to fancy up a casual dress. (Pictured: DVF Leather Clutch | DVF Minaudiere)

6 – Stiletto Pump. If you don’t already have a clean-lined, pointed-toe stiletto, this season is the perfect time to find yours. Always a classic, it’s an important basic when pairing different patterns, colors and textures. If you want a little shine, find one in patent or with a hint of metallic finish. The sky is the limit with this style, so go with the tallest heel height that you can handle. (Pictured: Ivanka Trump Pump | YSL Metal Heel Pump)

7 – Embellished Button-Down. If you’ve already invested in bold colors and patterns, try a simple white blouse in a feminine material, like silk: it makes a seamless transition to evening. Or you can go with a patterned blouse to create interest around more neutral pieces. Wear these tops buttoned up, and if you’re feeling daring, add a brooch or necklace for an opulent finish. (Pictured: Ted Baker London Top)

8 – Bold Jewelry. Fun, bold jewelry can fit easily into your lifestyle, whether it’s an oversized cuff or a strong necklace. Have fun with your pieces, and don’t be afraid to wear them anytime as a way to punch up your casual, everyday wardrobe. (Pictured: Cara Accessories Cuff)

9 – Hostess Gifts. Make the party rush easier by filling up a gift drawer ahead of time for all of your holiday soirees. Along with being the best dressed, you should never arrive empty-handed. Grab one of these fabulous goodies that any of your friends or family will love, and be on your way—no last-minute stop for flowers this year! (Pictured: Ben’s Garden Note Pads | kate spade paperweight)

10 – Cozy Sweater. Even when lounging at home after a big holiday meal, we still want you looking chic and finished, so the last piece on my list is a cozy cashmere sweater, perfect for winter nights with family and friends. I suggest something with a metallic finish so you can look complete with very little accessorizing. Style over one of your favorite dresses or with leggings and boots. And most importantly: Have fun! (Pictured: MARC BY MARC JACOBS Sweater)