It’s that time again. (Sigh!) Whether you love it, hate it or love and hate it, the holidays are here which bring a whirlwind of festivities, feasting and socializing — all of which demand some seriously amazing outfits! And let’s not forget there’s the added stress of hosting, planning and gift-shopping. Throw these into the mix, and you’ve got a very full plate! The last thing you need is for your outfits to add to the frenzy. That’s why it’s important to get your holiday looks sorted, sealed and delivered before the celebrations begin. I’m going to share the best way to create a killer outfit, so you feel fabulous at your events!
How To Create A Killer Outfit: 3 Steps
Step 1: Tune Into Your Specific Surroundings
As you consider what to wear to your upcoming festivities, begin by thinking about the logistics of the occasion. I know it’s not exciting to think about this, but the physical setting and ambiance of where you’ll be are crucial factors that influence what you’ll wear. So ask yourself: what is the environment? Is it indoor? Outdoor? Casual? Formal? What’s the temperature going to be? From dress codes to weather conditions to venue type, the specific surroundings of the occasion determine what feels appropriate.
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Recently, I helped a client select an outfit for a wedding with a vintage theme. While she was eager to embrace the retro vibe, she was also concerned about feeling formal enough in the banquet setting. After some thoughtful consideration, we found the perfect blend of elegance with vintage flair. She wore a chic mini dress and paired it with tall boots that gave her an air of sophistication. She then added a trapeze jacket for an edgy, modern twist, and finished it off with timeless earrings and a statement purse. The day after the wedding, she texted me saying, “I felt stunning!” Her outfit was totally appropriate for her event and she had an incredible time.
One more thing about the specific surroundings, don’t forget to think about your physicality. Will you be standing on your feet the whole time? This could impact the shoes you choose. Or will you be sitting alot? You might want to consider your fabrics and how wrinkly they get.
The specific surroundings are the number one thing to consider as you plan your outfit since this greatly impacts how comfortable you’ll be.
Step 2: Get Acquainted With The Guest List
Next, ask yourself who is going to attend. If the specific surroundings set the scene, the guests give it life. What type of energy will they bring? Are they buttoned-up or more bohemian? Do they love fashion and will dress to the nines? Or are they less concerned about making a statement? Your outfit should speak to the guests’ vibe, but you’ll communicate in your own unique way. (More on how to do this below.)
Last year, I helped my styling client get ready for her office holiday party. She wanted to feel comfortable and confident whether she was mingling with the other executives or hanging out with the twenty-somethings. It was important that her outfit was polished, yet she didn’t want to look like she was at a business conference. We ended up finding a beautiful button down, floral, sheer blouse. She layered a simple cami underneath, tucked it into a black leather pencil skirt, sparkled on some festive jewelry and stepped into her patent leather black booties. She felt fun, fabulous and confident that others would still take her seriously at work.
While you should never feel pressured to conform to a specific style, you do want to respect the host and other guests. So be mindful of the tone of the event and dress accordingly.
Step 3: Show Your Individuality
The final step to putting together a killer outfit is to infuse personality into your look. Unless you want to blend into the background and be like everyone else, this is key! When you set yourself apart through your personal style, others will be drawn towards you — either to offer a compliment or engage in conversation.
The key components of your individual expression are your signature details. These are the elements that make your outfits so you. For example, if you’re someone who loves wearing a gorgeous scarf, you become known for your exquisite taste in scarves. And when others are shopping and see a beautiful scarf, they think of you. This is your signature! (Go here to read more about signature styles and why you need one: https://elyshalenkin.com/30signature)
What’s something you love wearing? It could be a special color. Or maybe it’s the way you layer your necklaces, or stack your bracelets. These are the details that make your look uniquely yours. Not only will this help make your outfit more memorable, but it also serves as a conversation starter which makes it more fun to circulate through the room.
Feeling FAB At Your Holiday Events In A Killer Outfit
Now you have the 3 steps to designing your killer outfit, you can use these guidelines when considering what to wear. If you want help in skillfully putting your outfits together so you feel amazing at your holiday events — join my free styling challenge! I’ll show you how to ramp up your outfits so you love how you look! And the best part, you can do this without splurging for new clothes! Go here to register for free: elyshalenkin.com
– Elysha Lenkin
Elysha Lenkin is an expert personal fashion stylist who helps women become confident curators of their clothing and style so that they effortlessly get dressed for their next stage of life. Throughout her 20 year career, she has styled women of all shapes, sizes, and ages, including Carrie Underwood, Tina Fey, and Serena Williams. For more style tips and inspiration, head over to Elysha’s website here or follow her on instagram @elysha_nyc.
Photos: Canva
You may like to read more of Elysha’s styling posts like Your Fall Style Revamp Needs This and Which of These Wardrobe Weaknesses Is Lingering In Your Closet?
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