Party On

Originally posted in The CLOSET

1. Hooded Parka, H&M, $69.95; 2. Snake-Print Pumps, H&M, $39.95;  3, Metallic Mini-Dress, Club Monaco; 4. Knit and Leather Gloves, Gap, $44.95; 5. Snake-Print Belt, Le Château, $19.95; 6. Loose-Knit Beret, Smart Set, $12

1. Jones New York Wrap Coat, The Bay, $199.99; 2. Patent Leather Pump, Le Château, $109.95; 3. Pleated Tube Dress, Jacob, $99; 4. Faux Fur Cap, H&M, $12.95; 5. Satin Flapover Clutch, Le Château, $39.95; 6. Dotted Feather Necklace, American Eagle Outfitters, $12.73

1. Quilted Metallic Cross-Body Bag, Gap, $44.95; 2. Faux Shearling Bomber, H&M, $59.95;  3. Maxi Dress, Le Château, $189.95;  4. Leopard-Print Pumps, Nine West at Town Shoes, $110;  5. Door-Knocker Earrings, ALDO Accessories, $8

1. Shiny Jeggings, Dynamite, $39.90; 2. Tuxedo Blazer, Smart Set, $65; 3. Python Print Clutch, H&M, $  4. Suede Lace-Up Boots, H&M, $179; 5. Sequined Open-Back Blouse, Dynamite, $32.90

1. Thin Feather Headband, Gap, $24.95; 2. Pleated Sheer Tank, Smart Set, $30; 3. Lace Pumps, ALDO, $70; 4. Bright Skirt, H&M, $34.95;  5. Hammered Bangle Set, Le Château, $22; 6. Cropped Blazer, H&M, $39.95

It's the middle of November (can you believe it?!), which means that party season is just around the bend.  You survey your closet, only to realize that you have a few LBDs (been there, rocked that), a smattering of sparkly tanks and shoes that look more ready for the dump than the dance floor.  Sigh.  What's a party-girl to do?  Before throwing your hands up in despair, check out these looks for a little holiday inspiration, with dresses, blazers and sparkly extras to get you through the entire party season without busting your budget.   

A metallic mini, a little red dress, a snow-sweeping maxi, a tuxedo jacket or a bright skirt will instantly update your holiday looks and are way more versatile than you might think.  If you're looking for a little longevity, try these tips to get more wear out of each piece:

Metallic mini dress - Who says you should save metallics for going out?  When paired with black tights, black ballet flats and a little cardigan, a metallic dress is suddenly appropriate for day.

Little Red Dress - This is a dress you can wear all year long.  For winter, add a little drama to the red by pairing it with black tights, edgy booties and a tuxedo blazer.

Maxi Dress - Maxi dresses are a gorgeous option for day when you throw a little bomber or chunky knit over top and add a pair of flat boots.

Tuxedo Jacket - This will be your new go-to topper.  Wear it with dresses, black leggings, slouchy pants or even a cute tank & jeans.  

Bright Skirt - A plain white short or long-sleeved tee will make that bright orange pop next spring. Or, try it now with grey tights and a pretty grey crew-neck sweater and a shiny silver cuff.   

Perfect!  Now who's hosting?