As we embark on the special, annual journey of holiday spirit, it is important to think about the opportunities that await us. Some of those opportunities include dressing — not stuffing. Dressing up!
Personally, I always look forward to the many outfits I can wear during the holiday season. I, generally, believe that September, October, November and December are the best months for fashion. In these months, which I had previously called the “ber” months, the ability to dress comfortably and fashionably is much more prominent than any other time period.
When the air begins to cool, we start to layer. Layering is the most convenient and appealing style, and there is an infinite amount of room for creativity.
Though it may be early to discuss these fashionable events, Black Friday sales are approaching. Lists are beginning to be written, and clothes usually end up very high on our lists. We love clothes, and we need them — obviously.
With this being said, let’s begin to discuss some of the upcoming holiday occasions to both excite and inspire us in this time of emotion and stress. Clothing is here to hold your hand.
Beginning and middle of November
As Halloween and October are sadly over, we are in a transition period of colder air, more holidays and college breaks. The more wholesome version of fall is appearing in our peripheral vision, and I do not know about you, but I am excited. Even though Halloween is my favorite time of the year, I adore November and December.
November is the month of muted and deep fall colors. While October screams orange, beige and yellow, November is made up of wine red, dark brown and forest green. Both color palettes are equally as daunting to look at, but November’s has a mature and gorgeous feel that more individuals are likely to accommodate.
Thanksgiving, this year, is Nov. 28. I recently went on a shopping trip to get clothes for the fall and winter season. While I was looking through different pieces, I found plenty of items that are interchangeably aesthetic for the holiday season.
I was determined to find an outfit for Thanksgiving, and I found the perfect one. I purchased a tan, mini sweater dress that has long sleeves, and I am going to pair it with brown tights and tan, closed-toe heels — that match the dress — with gold detailing. I think this is a perfect omen to the Thanksgiving spirit, as it is stretchy, comfortable and classy.
For other Thanksgiving inspiration, the ideas are endless. I would be overjoyed to see oversized cardigans with flared jeans and boots. This is very vague, and it is allowed to be. The slouchy cardigan aesthetic has always been trendy. They’re chic and cozy. After eating the big T-Giv meal, it is important to feel snug in your outfit.
I am a firm believer in wearing trousers, even if there is not business happening. I believe that trousers or business-casual pants are what help the world turn. They come in several different colors, patterns and styles, and I expect to see lots of them this Thanksgiving. I have a gray pair with beige pinstripes that I think would be excellent for the fall and holiday spirit. With these, you could wear a bodysuit, sweater or turtleneck shirt. This is just as comfortable, and it is just as appealing.
Beginning and middle of December
December is just three weeks away. I feel like it was just the Miley Stewart summer yesterday. Three weeks sounds like a long time until you realize that it is less than a month away, and you have to start Christmas shopping, studying for finals and preparing for the snowy weather.
Christmas is the spirit of green, red, white and blue. This is indisputable, unless you are talking about Christmas lights. In this case, it is the spirit of red, orange, yellow, green, blue and purple. Yes, I am an avid supporter of multi-color Christmas lights. They remind me of childhood, and they feel homey.
Outfits for December make me smile. This is where layering becomes incomparably important. Scarves, cardigans, coats, stockings, socks, hats, earmuffs and gloves play a huge role in the holiday season. I picture walking in New York City around the Rockefeller Christmas Tree, which was delivered Nov. 9, in all of these accessories.
Not only does layering provide comfort and warmth, but it gives an opportunity to fuel your deepest fashion desires. I look forward to wearing dark-washed, bell-bottom jeans with a white, an off-the-shoulder sweater, a black calf-long coat, a patterned scarf to tie the colors in and heeled, black boots. With my hair in a slick-back bun, gold jewelry and black gloves, this outfit is a winter-approved staple.
November and December have several routes to take in regard to fashion. Thanksgiving and Christmas are not the only holidays celebrated in November and December. There are plenty of other holidays that deserve the same attention and excitement. They are just as important, and they make others smile.
Show up for yourself during the holiday months. Give yourself some grace, thanks and spirit in addition to others that you love.
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