DRESSCODE: HOLIDAY DRESSING
If it isn't metallic, beaded, jeweled, or sequined, is it really worthy of a party? The holiday soirée season only comes but once a year, so make it count. Everyone here at Recess has a shared love for all things that sparkle, and we're puttin' on the Ritz! Here are our fave five essentials that will have you partying straight into the new year.
These pieces embody all of the drama of the holidays, providing a costume of sorts to play up our personal show that is holiday entertaining. Gathers, puffs, velvet, and boning create dramatic silhouettes that are theater-worthy and will steal the show every time.
A Moschino bustier that's perfect for the Moulin Rouge and reminiscent of Scarlett O'Hara's infamous drapery dress, this piece has fiery independence and cries out to steal the show and will be a guaranteed conversation starter. We LOVE all of the theatrical drama it has, from the curtain pull ties to the fringed hem- and wouldn't be offended if someone called us a drama queen while wearing it.
A strong shoulder demands attention and authority, and the star of this Saint Laurent puff sleeve jacket-top is the silk leg-of-mutton sleeves that balloon from the tailored bodice. Be the confident one with the best dressed game in the room in this piece.
Collars and cuffs are nowhere near conservative or boring in lush fabrics and silhouettes. Perfect for talking with your hands, or for providing an excellent backdrop for the drink in hand, this velvet robe-blouse by OMO Norma Kamali takes boudoir dressing to the next level, with one of the drapiest cuffs and padded collars we've seen.
Jacqueline de Ribes' ruffled, collared dress brings all the attention up to your face in a lingerie-inspired swiss dot lace that is made proper with a high collar and cuffs. You'll catch us sporting one of these pieces and making grand gestures (literally!) while making our rounds.
A festive, colorful look is the way perfect to punch up all of that holiday cheer. We love the sleek, straight lines of this striking brocade coat in a rich, ultra-flattering wine color by Mr. Blackwell. Perfect over any minidress, this coat IS the look- talk about making an entrance! Thrown over a pair of jeans and a tee, you're party-ready in an instant. Fur cuffs just add that little something extra without going overboard.
If a formal Mrs. Claus is what you're going for, then this Yves Saint Laurent silk ball skirt is the way to go. We'd wear it with a silk camisole, sheer chiffon blouse, or vintage band tee and top with a statement earring- but be warned, you'll receive the most compliments at the party. Be ready to accept graciously.
Lustrous, liquid lamé gowns are the underdogs in the holiday dress game. These two full-coverage gowns sensuously slink down the body and hug those curves better than any skintight, spandex fabric. Add in bold washes of color, and you've instantly got everyone's attention.
A long, leafy lamé gown is crafted with a sophisticated hand by Yves Saint Laurent. Strong shoulders contrast a softly draped waist, creating the ultimate power silhouette. A sky-high leg opening keeps the look from becoming overwhelming. We'd perfect our J.Lo party stance before leaving the house, practicing that leg-out pose prior to the night's selfies.
This gleaming leopard lamé number by Vicky Tiel is perfect for the prowl. Understated and backless, they won't know what hit 'em til you're gone. Silky velvet lamé begs to be "pet," so wear her when you're feelin frisky.
It's not a New Year's Eve outfit if you're not glittering like a disco ball. These embellished pieces are the epitome of sophistication. Balanced with sheer fabrics and strategic shine, it's all in the delicate details with these two dresses.
This goddess gown from Saks-Jandel is an elegant statement. A delicately draped waist adds just the right amount of extra fabric to create a dreamy skirt that forces you to walk a little taller and a little more graceful. Combined with golden lamé blossoms floating down the body and a beaded belt, we're in love with this dress that we believe is by Oscar de la Renta, and know we won't be the only smitten ones.
An expertly draped georgette dress covered in sequins is a Halston signature. The mixture of beads and sequins adds a little sparkle, while creating a subtle ombre effect. Boatneck opening and cold-shoulder style slit sleeves are the perfect frame for a graceful neck and toned arms, ensuring you're wearing the dress, rather than it wearing you. After all, it's all up to you to enjoy your night in what you're wearing.
by Erica Sanae
