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 About Style By Ann Turner
A Holiday Action Plan
It’s December 1, 2007, and the end-of year Holiday season is officially underway. Ladies and gents are dusting off their favorite party gear and making decisions about what to buy for upcoming events, what they’ll keep on hand from last year(s) look, and what to stash for another time. There are some exceptional choices for party wear and kicky street clothes this season. The creative fashion drought appears to be over. Though most of us do not have an opportunity to wear our fancy duds very often, we ask more of our clothing at this time of year. We want the garments to morph us into an attractive embodiment of holiday spirit. Well, I am here to tell you that it takes a little work, but it IS possible when dressing becomes a strategic activity.
Strategy 1: Go for the sparkle.
This holiday season, jewel tones rock! But for those of us who like to “play it safe”, black works as well. Try black slipper satin in a bias cut. Rich jewel tones like garnet, sapphire and emerald, are sophisticated and elegant. Remember, solids look best when going for big color in the evening. Think of your garment as a blank canvas that you can enhance according to your age, personality, frame of mind, or the event you plan to attend. Invest your own special flare by adding an accent that reflects your unique personality, such as a distinctive brooch, a colorful scarf, or a big necklace. Remember, where bling is concerned, less is more. Your objective is to add an accent, not your entire jewelry tray. To add sparkle to a simple dress or a satin pantsuit, try adding a bullet of complementary color from an opulent jewel or an oversized cocktail ring.
Luxurious accessories such as sequined clutches, abundant strands of fat opalescent pearls, or dainty looking yet robust lengths of inch-long links joined by sparkling gem toned crystal beads, can energize and distinguish your appearance.
 Strategy 2: add something outrageous
At least one piece in your outfit should have lots of personality. The key is to mix it up. Surprise yourself by trying out unlikely pairings and do not neglect the fun factor. While some designers have recently sent models down the runway wearing more feathers than a Vegas showgirl, others have shown cropped jackets of incredibly shaggy faux fur (Fendi), and skirts of cashmere dreadlocks at Malo. Fringe, feathers and fur are the trendy textures of the moment, so why not start there?
The trick is to take the inspiration, not to copy the entire look. Dreadlocks indeed! ,Bottega Veneta’s Flapper dresses dripping with fringe may be made for dancing, but a beaded fringe bag can carry the effect if you are not ready for the full impact. Shaggy sweaters are hot right now too, and those of us in cold climates will revel in the season’s new oversized scarves (with or without the fringe).
If you are attracted to fringe, have some fun with it. Think about garments and accessories that  you can enjoy long after the last cork has popped
Strategy 3: Parlay your assets.
Nipped waists and a full skirts will be seen at all the fashionable parties this holiday season. If you have the shape for it, show off the smallest part of your body and let a full skirt flow right over the parts you may want to hide. You do not have to be Sarah Jessica Parker to pull this off. Remember that the waist does not have to be smack in the middle. A drop waist elongates your torso, while an Empire gives you a leggier look. Be mindful that the right shoes enhance the effect. The higher the hemline, the lower the heel. Wear minidresses with flats if you are going for a more casual look.
Strategy 4: Don’t over-do it
Add a few finishing touches to make your holiday outfit stand out. With a powerful dress like this John Galliano Couture piece, accessories should be simple, with clean lines, as in this satin clutch.
 Strategy 5: Try something new.
Be open to experimentation with new silhouettes. Pieces you have always shied away from could end up being the most flattering.
Strategy 6: Great hair and make-up.
 Glamour is back for hair this season. Think of the Hollywood tresses of Jean Harlow, Katharine Hepburn, Marilyn Monroe, and Rita Hayworth. Today, the look of luxurious hair can be seen on the likes of Scarlet Johansson, Drew Barrymore, and Dita von Teese. Their hair radiates style, color, and interest. You may not see yourself in glamorous cascades of waves and shine, but it is always fun to try out a new look. Why not try a sleek chignon or a glossy ponytail? Shorter hair can be waved or curled for a soft bob. Semi-permanent hair color can add shine and transparent color for up to 5 weeks. Got gray? Why not blend it away for the holidays? The sheer colors will make your aging locks look like highlights for a few weeks. Nexus has a great sight that gives you styling tips and video instructions to  achieve the look that is right for you this season.- http://hairstyles.nexxus.com/
For this Holiday’s makeup, your skin can be sensational. Start with a new, high tech skincare products. Then, Focus the attention on either your eyes or mouth. Try some gold dust glints on cheekbones and on the tips of long thick lashes. Brush deep shadow over the entire lid and add matching liner along the lash line. Apply mascara thickly on upper and lower lashes to complete the eyes. Soft distinctive tones or or powerful red hued lips are enlivened by a golden sheen and a little extra volume. For staying power into late night revelry, try a lip liner.
Strategy 7: Comfort.
Before you start dancing the night away in those adorable heels you just couldn’t resist, remember to break them in around the house for a few days of gentle use, and consider investing in a cushioning insole to reduce the forward pressure and strain on feet and legs.
In closing, I would like to take this opportunity to wish you all a phenomenal Holiday Season and a Happy, Healthy, and Stylish New Year.
 See You next year, and remember that you can’t go wrong when you keep it real.
Cheers,
Ann
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