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Holiday dressing should be three things: fun, festive and fabulously versatile.
“Elevated everyday wear with a modern twist,” Sebastien Baril, design director of menswear for the Canadian retailer RW&CO., summarizes of the essential elements.
This approach leans in to tailored blazers that look as sharp paired with trousers as they do over jeans — that goes for any gender — as well as sweater dresses, chic knits and more.
“Versatile enough for both casual gatherings and formal occasions,” Baril adds of the workhorse wardrobe pieces that can do overtime in your outfit lineup, both in and out of the holiday season.
To add a luxe factor to your holiday looks, Baril suggests picking up plush fabrics that will add a tactile touch to your outfit experience.
“Focusing on timeless pieces reimagined with luxurious fabrics like wool blends, merino and cashmere,” Baril says. “Pleated tweeds pants paired with textured swea ters can create a unique look.”
If you’re looking to add just one item to your festive fashion lineup, let it be this:
“A cashmere sweater, offering both comfort and sophistication, perfect for dressing up or down during the holiday season,” Baril suggests without pause. “Add a little twist with a matching touque and scarf.”
Playing with classic silhouettes such as straight-leg trousers, again, for men or for women, A-line skirts, midi dresses and more allows seasonally inspired pieces to go from work to holiday event. No changing required.
“Playful feminine silhouettes that easily transition from day-to-party, mixing chic refinement with whimsical touches such as flower appliqués and effects,” Raphael Tomaszewski, design director of womenswear at RW&CO. says.
Adding a piece to your holiday fashion lineup that steps a little out of the ordinary can also adds to the seasonal style points.
“Play on transparency and jewel tones and elevated fabrics,” Tomaszewski suggests. Opting for one — or even all — of these festive staples can add “glam and warmth to any holiday outfit,” according to the Montreal-based design expert.
When pressed to pick a perfect MVG (that’s most valuable garment) to try on for size this holiday party season, Tomaszewski opted for a style that may be hanging in more than a few closets already.
“A versatile day-to-night dress that can be styled for both casual gatherings and festive parties such as a great sweater dress,” Tomaszewski says.
To easily update a tried-and-true piece like a much-loved sweater dress, consider adding a stylish belt, bold earrings, and a seasonal beauty must-have: a red lip.
While discussing holiday fashion, especially in Canada, you can’t skip the topic of warmth. So, is there a glam way to look holiday ready while still staying warm? According to Tomaszewski, the answer is absolutely.
“Opt for stylish outerwear, like a statement wool coat, to elevate your look without sacrificing warmth,” Tomaszewski says.