Dress Up Your Holiday Dress

The right fashion accessories can perfect your winter style.

Every holiday season it’s the same old story: too many functions, not enough time — or festive winter outfits. But there’s no reason to run out and buy a new dress for each occasion. Follow these smart strategies from shopping expert Michelle Madhok, CEO of SheFinds.com, and learn how to jazz up your little black dress and look your best after a long day. Party on!

Say Yes to the Dress

You probably already have a little black dress — or 10 — hanging in your closet. First, go through what you have and see what still fits. If you’re in the market for a new holiday dress, Madhok recommends getting a tailored sheath. “A classic like this is perfect for the office,” she says.

“It’s the modern girl’s power look.” If you’re curvy, go for an A-line dress, which will help balance your figure. Look for one with a fitted waist and drapey full skirt. Whatever you do, make sure it’s comfortable and forgiving enough to withstand hours of eating, drinking, and dancing.

Stay Daytime-Appropriate With Your Winter Style

You don’t want your holiday dress to scream, “Where’s the cocktail party?” when you’re at work or the grocery store. If your daytime look is pretty buttoned-up, tone down your dress with pumps, conservative earrings, and a blazer or a cardigan, Madhok suggests.

If it’s more casual, wear a necklace with a colorful cardigan or a cropped jacket, or even a black leather jacket. To go from day to night in a snap, shed some of your more daytime-appropriate pieces. “Ditch the blazer for the sequined jacket, leave your tote bag behind in favor of a clutch, and turn in your sensible shoes for a sky-high version,” she says.

Start a Party Stash

Keep a few soiree-ready fashion accessories nearby: a piece of vintage jewelry, high heels in a bold color or black, a sequined jacket and a basic clutch. For a quick fix, take a metallic belt and cinch it at your waist to add an edge to your look, says Madhok: “It’s really up to you. Just remember, this is the one time of year when anything goes. Opulence rules, so have fun with it!”

Get Fresh With These Tips

Rejuvenate your skin with St. Ives® Replenishing Mineral Therapy. Whether applied to your hands, feet or face, it’s fast-absorbing and nongreasy. Plus, it replaces the nutrients that your skin loses daily. After a long day, reapply your makeup for an instant energy lift.

Apply on an extra coat of mascara, dab concealer under your eyes, and brush on a bit of blush, Madhok says. “If you look good in red lipstick, now’s the time for a fresh coat — don’t forget to stash it in your clutch too.”

Go the distance by reapplying deodorant: Keep a travel-size Degree® Women Ultra Clear in your car or your daytime bag so that you can freshen up in seconds, she suggests. The best part? It doesn’t leave streaks. Add a spritz of one of the Degree® Fine Fragrance Body Mist scents and you’re party-prepped.