The Metallic Trend – Spotlight on Shine

Here’s a fashion riddle for you…What is sometimes warm, sometimes cool but always makes a statement? Metallic accents. From the warmth that gold brings, to the cool tones of silver, this season offers a full spectrum of sparkle and shine.  Metallic accents certainly add a richness to an outfit. And we aren’t just talking about metallic accessories. This season, heavy metal has made its way into the material, with fabrics shining brighter than your holiday lights. From a pleated pewter puffer, to a shiny silver sweater, there is a precious metal piece for every personality!  Need some help finding a dash of flash? Read on as you are a sparkly second away from some fab metallic fashion!  And for additional style inspo, please check out my curated collection.

Opt for Easy Peasy:  Here’s the plan. You’re at the office and then have to dash out for drinks and holiday cheer.  There’s not much glam up time in-between.  Why not swap your office-appropriate blouse for this shoulder-baring, shiny alternative? This piece takes up practically no room in your tote bag and easily amps up the evening appeal of anything you pair it with.  For those more modest amongst us, sport it under your favorite black blazer and see this office basic in a whole new light (smile).  Available at Nordstrom.

All that Glitters Is Gold: Ahhh…the age-old debate.  Can leggings be worn as pants?  In my mind the answer can be a resounding yes, as long as they are higher quality and styled in a way that ups the ante. (The fact that these are glammed up in gold, further helps prove my point.) To avoid TMI, pair your leggings with a longer tunic.  Add a bold, gold statement necklace that adds a visual link to your leggings, yet keep the attention high.  Swap out a day sneaker for an evening ankle bootie or kitten heel pump for a party-ready look.  These metallic leggings are a blessing when you want to look festive, yet be comfortable. Bonus:  the wider waist band is a friend for those of us that hold a little extra holiday cheer in our mid-section.  Available at Lord &  Taylor.

Layer Up and Shine On: Look around any selling floor and you’ll see…This season we continue to be invested in the vest.  Sure it’s an essential layer that will keep you chic on the sidewalk or glam at the gym, but why leave it at that?  The metallic finish gives you a whole other host of party options.  Add a thin gauge turtleneck, slim pants and a black ankle bootie and you’re all set for a casual holiday brunch or tree-trimming party.  Compliment your silver vest with a great pair of earrings or stackable rings.  I think you’ll agree that down has never looked so sophisticated – and sleek!  Available at Bloomingdales.

Think One and Done: The holiday season is notoriously a busy time.  Between a year end push at work, various gatherings and gift shopping, there’s often little time to think about what you’ll wear to your office party and/or other year-end soirees. What this means is that there’s no better time than now to simplify your wardrobe routine…And there’s no better way than with a dress.  This one has a decidedly feminine fit and feel. With its fit n’ flare silhouette and bateau neckline, this shape is universally flattering as it visually narrows the waist and creates an hourglass effect.  What’s more, the metallic detail means you don’t have to overdue the jewelry. Just add a drop earring and clutch bag and celebrate the holidays in style!  Dress this piece down with a cardigan, tights and booties or dress it up with hosiery and heels.  Either way, it’s an easy addition this holiday season.  Available at Lord & Taylor.

Happy Feet, Happy Holiday:  Whether we realize it, we all wear pain on our face.  (And it’s not our best accessory.)  So I ask you…Why suffer with your footwear?  With any holiday party comes a lot of standing and socializing on your feet.  You know as well as I do that you’ll have a better time if you’re wearing comfortable shoes.  The good news is that there’s no need sacrifice style. You absolutely can marry comfort and style with this chic and sparkly ballerina flat. It’s no accident that this shoe is named Allegria which in Italian means cheerfulness and jolly. The truth is it feels like slipper and looks like shoe.  In fact, you can think of it as a slipper that shimmers—and charms (smile).  Available at M. Gemi.

Choose Your Sparkle Wisely:  Don’t want to buy a lot of sparkle and shine for the season?  You don’t have to. Just pick one or two pieces, like this one, to glam up what you already have.  This short but sparkly cardie is the one piece that will make any solid, sheath dress holiday-ready! The cropped length accentuates and defines the waist while the metallic thread promotes a festive feel. What’s more it’s a seasonal favorite…Buy it this season and sparkle for seasons to come!  Available at Lord & Taylor.

This season all that glitters is gold (and silver and platinum)! So don’t be shy about taking a leap and jumping on the jewelry-inspired, metallic trend. Remenber…metallics may capture the light, but you’ll capture all the attention.