Photography by Brandi Stage Portraiture
Makeup by Brittney Johnson | Venue: The House of the Jackson Pearl
Take that loungewear off! After a decidedly lowkey holiday season in 2020, we are reclaiming our diva-ness this year. We’ve all been waiting patiently to show off our fiercest outfits, and it’s officially time to step out, sparkle and dip our toes in some of the season’s hottest trends.
“Everyone is ready for fun in 2021,” says Wendy Figer, founder and CEO of Gabrielle’s boutique in Biloxi, who adds that this season “is all about the glam, festive and eye-catching styles.”
As in-person holiday gatherings ramp up and we fill our calendars with parties and celebrations, it’s only fitting that our looks reflect the elevated mood. By popular decree, it’s time to recapture the joy of dressing up.
WHAT’S TRENDING
“Holiday collections are bringing vibrant jewel tones, leather looks and fur,” Figer says, adding, “I love jewel-toned colored fabrics in the winter months; they are rich and vibrant and bring out the beauty of your natural skin tone.”
Women may have a certain idea in mind when they shop for fashion this time of year, but Figer says holiday attire can be anything from formalwear to themed or novelty pieces.
“Within each category, there are numerous variations and options,” she says. “For example, cocktail can be a glitzy, off-the-shoulder and above-the-knee dress or a wax-coated pair of designer denim paired back with a silk top and a stunning piece of jewelry.”
DRESS FOR THE OCCASION
Whether comfort is key or you’re looking to turn heads, Figer says always consider the venue and theme when selecting your ensemble.
She has found that the Coast has a fun, flashy and sophisticated style of dressing for holiday parties that’s all its own. The main factor to consider when outfit planning this season, she says, is how you feel in what you’re wearing.
“An outfit creates your mood; confidence comes from a level of comfort,” Figer says. “Allow your style to compliment you!”
Festive fashion advice from the experts
Figer likes to use a layering concept when building a winter wardrobe.
“The basic bodysuit starts the building block, and from there, we create our own style — maybe a chucky, cable-knit cardigan with a pair of faux leather Spanx-leggings or a stunning sleek leather blazer with designer, dark straight-leg denim. Accessories pull it all together, creating your own signature look that is ‘on trend.’”
Her top tips:
- When dressing for a holiday event, never forget the accessories; they make an outfit. Accessories are an investment that pay off for years to come. They are the final touch.
- Your outfit should complement you.
- Find a style you love and be you, feeling confident showing the world who you are.
- Confidence is fueled by comfort.
- It’s always better to be overdressed versus underdressed.
Walklet says “slinky silk slip dresses and super sparkle” also are on-trend for the 2021 holiday season. She expects camel to feature heavily in the color palette, along with burnt orange, deep green and, for a fresh, festive twist, lavender.
“The holiday party is where festive meets fashion,” Walklet adds. “Soft velvets, flowing silk, fun feathers and dresses adorned with sequins are holiday party attire necessities.”
Her top tips:
- Don’t forget to accessorize! If you opt for a little black dress, add a pop of color with shoes, statement jewelry or even a bold lip color.
- Do your research to understand where an event is, what the theme is and whether it’s inside or outside before planning your outfit.
- Comfort is king! A fabulous outfit does not pair well with a pained expression.
- Be bold! The holidays are a time for celebration, and your outfit should reflect that.
- Coordinate! If you’re attending an event with your partner, take the time to coordinate your looks.
While she’s thrilled by the prospect of seeing feathers on everything from sleeves to dress hems, she’s even more excited about crushed velvet — one of her favorite trends this time of year.
“It’s comfortable and dressy with the perfect amount of shine,” she says. Hunter green is a popular color for everyday outfits, Scardino adds, while gold is the go-to for some sparkle — or fuchsia to make a statement.
“When it comes to the holiday season,” she says, “everyone loves attire that makes them shine from head to toe.”
Her top tips:
- Don’t be afraid to stand out. Whether it’s a bold color or some extra sparkle, make everyone notice you when you walk in the room.
- It’s always better to be overdressed than underdressed.
- Accessorize with a statement piece, whether it’s a pair of earrings, a headband or a clutch.
- Wear a pair of shoes that make you feel confident.
- Remember to have fun in your outfit.