New York Times fashion photographer Bill Cunningham famously summed up fashion as “the armour to survive the reality of everyday life. I don’t think you could do away with it. It would be like doing away with civilization." Chances are you’ll need to throw on some “armour” to get through Western Civilization’s inevitable seasonal gatherings. Here are a few protective festive options for your next holiday office party, family dinner, and NYE bash.
Cocktail hour
Vancouver designer Eliza Faulkner’s Milah dress ($310) available online at ElizaFaulkner.com in this lush pine green and a soft berry red, is a versatile option that can be dressed up for cocktail hour or down for the office. I love how the dress is styled with these darling Nordstrom-brand polka-dot pantyhose, on sale for $10. Grab this Clare V. oversized clutch, available at Gastown’s One of a Few ($320) or go for any black rectangular clutch – they’re everywhere at all sorts of price points. For winter dress-up, I love these classic Vince Camuto suede pumps in black, available at Hudson’s Bay ($175). Opt for a statement ring like Vancouver jewelry designer Leah Alexandra’s Black Onyx adjustable pear ring ($105), available at her online store LeahAlexandra.com, and at many local retailers, including The Cross, Nordstrom, Hills of Kerrisdale, Blue Ruby, Beautybar, and LYNNsteven boutique. Finish the look with a simple band, such as the delicate 14K gold Memento bracelet ($395) from local jewelry line Poppy Finch, PoppyFinch.com.
Dinner time
Stay comfy in the Talula Winkley blouse ($75) and pair with the Wilfred Free Adrienne vegan leather pant ($145), or the wide-leg, high-rise Gerlier pant ($145). For a dressier option. throw on the loose-fitting Minimum Salli dress from The Block in Gastown ($105) for maximum comfort while indulging). Simple jewelry, like the moonstone and gold collar necklace ($245) from Leah Alexandra, brings some subtle bling. For even more pop, try Leah Alexandra’s Sloane emerald chain studs (statement earrings are here to stay, btw). Get on point with the pointy-boot toe trend with these Loeffler Randall stunners, available locally at Hudson’s Bay for $475, and throw on an Erin Templeton cross body, $140. The Vancouver handbag line comes in an array of candy-store colours and recycle leathers.
New Year’s Eve
The velvet suit is a style staple this year. There are a variety of options in a ton of price points. For NYE, step into a sophisticated tuxedo-inspired two-piece like the Radnor blazer in peacot blue from Aritzia ($185) and the tailored Eaton pant ($90). Pair with your favourite crisp white blouse, or, if you dare, go bare underneath with a simple gold chain. Pop on a delicate earring, such as the Leah Alexandra Astro CZ rosegold ear climbers ($95) and scoop up a bold gold clutch – the J. Crew envelope in cracked gold foil ($128) is a lovely option. Finish off the celebratory look with gold pumps, like the nicely priced (on sale) Sam Edelman Orella ($96) available at Nordstrom, and you’re ready to ring in another year of civilization.
