Holiday Party Outfit Ideas

By Seema Kukadia

Holiday Party Best Looks

It’s that time of year again where we bring out the chunky knits and fluffy hats for the cold winter season. Whilst we are deciding how to wrap up warm for the day time, it’s also essential to put a thought towards how you are going to style yourself to look fabulous for all the holiday parties. Here are best holiday party outfit ideas. 

One of my favourite party must haves are sequin dresses, as this is the time for your wardrobe to ignite boldness and be festive. Depending on the type of party you will be attending, you can always find a range of beautifully embroidered embellished sequin dresses to match every type of festive party. You can find these sparkly pieces almost anywhere on the high street in different shapes and sizes. 

I particularly like sparkly dresses that drape well as it shows off those sparkles and creates a super elegant look. My favourite colours to look for are: red, green and electric blue when purchasing holiday festive attire. Not only because they cohere with the festive occasions, but it also is good to stand out and be different as most people tend to stick to the same conventional colours. Undeniably as a person who loves wearing black, I will admit you can never go wrong with a lovely black dress; as this would be suitable for all your parties.

For those of you who don’t like wearing fancy dresses, I would recommend purchasing a pair of silk (or anything shimmering) colourful trousers. With this you can always match an elegant sheer blouse and accessories it with statement jewelery. To top of these holiday party outfit ideas, always wear a chic fitted blazer and throw on a pair of fancy heels.

If you want to stand out and try something different experiment with different textures, I really like this DKNY ready to wear piece. Whilst glitter sequin dresses will never go old for the holiday season, adding a bit more dimension to your looks can help create an edgy look. I love how this dress has lace as well as feathers. Lace is such an elegant decorative fabric; by pairing it with feathers it creates a flowy and flirty feel to the dress.

Complete your party look with these simple holiday makeup ideas. I hope you all enjoyed this post and have an amazing holiday, feel free to share your favourite holiday party outfit ideas in the comment box below!

Effortless Style of Old Hollywood Icons

By Fatima N.

Let me reacquaint you with three words we have lost: pared down elegance. First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy knew them. Audrey Hepburn knew them. Grace Kelly knew them. It's time for you to be acquainted/reacquainted with them too. Now, this is not to wag a finger at heels and dresses. This is just a way to sartorially switch things up for evening attire. Here is a quick look at the fashion choices of these iconic ladies for your everyday inspiration and outfit ideas.

Effortless Style of Old Hollywood Icons

1. Effortlessly Stylish: Grace Kelly

The most perfect summary of Grace Kelly's fashion sense comes in the form of a quote by Howell Conant, "You trusted Grace's beauty; you knew it wasn't built from clothes and makeup...hair pulled back, dressed in a simple boy's shirt. This was Grace: natural, unpretentious." That was exactly the Queen of Monaco, Her Serene Highness. She had a minimalist ease about her, in her dressing.

Grace Kelly 1956- aboard the SS Constitution
on her way to get married in Monaco

2. Effortlessly Elegant: Audrey Hepburn

Ballet flats, white button downs and cropped pants are only a few parts of Audrey's repertoire. Comfortable, casual and chic style doesn't even begin to describe it. Let me let the pictures do the talking.

Beautiful back necklace--
Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany's

3. Effortlessly Chic: Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis

Jackie's sophistication and naturalness were shown in her sleek shifts and pillbox hats. She contributed to fashion, as seen by the amount of results you get when you search "The Jackie Look" or a variation of that on Google.

How to travel in style: Jackie Kennedy

Here are Club Fashionista blogger's fashion tips on how to incorporate the Old Hollywood glamour into your everyday wardrobe. 

1. Effortless Overcoats 

The main part of many of Jacqueline Kennedy's White House era outfits were coats designed by Oleg Cassini. They were beautiful stand-alone creations. Try the same thing the next time your evening out actually involves being out. Consult this article for help.

Overcoat: long duster coat 

2. Effortless Accessories

Statement necklaces have "statement" in their names a reason. The right one can transform your outfit from day to night. Don't stop there, dump your whole jewelry box out and start looking through it.

3. Effortless Flats

Pack those heels away for a while, they hurt anyway. Flats from your everyday wardrobe can make looks just as polished. If you really want to change it up, try sneakers or even combat boots under fancier garb.

Flats that work for every kind of office 

4. Effortless Pants

Take your dressy separates for a spin. You can look equally dressed up for the occasion substituting pants for dresses.

5. Effortless Jumpsuit

A perfect, tailored jumpsuit is a lifesaver for parties. Belt it, throw a blazer on it, you'll find it very versatile.

Of course, I've only brushed the surface. Looking around more is up to you. Thumb through some catalogs (I prefer J.Crew for this certain situation). Look to red carpet events, celebrities are also exchanging their dresses and heels for pants and flats. You'll see that elegance and glamour have no single definition in fashion! Until next time, signing-off from New York City! Xo.

Effortless elegance:
black turtleneck & white high waisted pants 

The Most Luxirious Handbags Ever Made

By Catherine Santino

The Most Luxurious Handbags Ever Made

Handbags are about so much more than utility in the fashion world- they are a statement. They become status symbols representative of a specific time in fashion history. Let’s take a look back at a few that made some serious waves in trends...

1. The Birkin Bag 

Created by Hermes in the early 1980s, the name “Birkin” actually refers to actress Jane Birkin, who was seated next to a Hermes executive on an airplane and complained of not being able to find the right size weekend bag. The Birkin bag will probably go down in history as the most recognizable handbag in the world (despite its trademark lack of logos- which I find amazing). I mean, even a person who is not interested in fashion whatsoever will recognize the words “Birkin bag.” The Birkin became so popular that it had once had a waiting list of up to 6 years! (We all remember that episode of Sex and the City, right?). To see the luxury handbags inspired by fashion icons, click here.

Jane Birkin--
British fashion icon who inspired the Hermes Birkin bag

A parody about the Birkin bag in Sex and the City

2. Chanel 2.55 

This bag is iconic because of the long straps introduced by Coco Chanel in the 1920s. She was searching for a way to free up her hands when carrying a handbag; and clearly she had the modern woman in mind. Nowadays, I can’t imagine owning a purse (besides a clutch) that didn’t fit easily onto my shoulder. This bag has seen many variations and colors, but the style of the bag was an instant classic.

Chanel 2.55

3. Fendi Baguette

This bag hit the scene in the late 1990s, and is a classic example of statement over functionality. It can barely hold your wallet and keys, but become such an iconic fashion choice that women everywhere were being seen with this bag (or this style of bag). 

Fendi baguette

4. Chloe Paddington 

This bag hit its fame in the mid-2000s, and like the Birkin, was available only through extensive waiting lists. It’s trademark design includes slouchy material, thick straps, and a padlock. It emerged during the emerging bohemian trend of the 2000s, and became to be considered one of the fastest selling handbags in history. 

Chloe Paddington

There you have it, 4 of the most luxurious handbags of all time. If you’re like me, you can only afford to admire these bags from afar. But don’t worry, these iconic fashion trends have inspired many different brands far and wide- including ones that you can afford! For a list of chic alternatives to luxury handbags, click here. 

Back to Basics Fashion Trend: How to Spice-Up the Look

By Brittany Dobbins

The back to basic fashion trend is back and bigger than ever, basic cuts and colors have swept-up luxury designers and high-street shops. The great thing about a back to basics fashion trend is that you can wear the look to any event or occasion. Here are some tips and trick on how to make those basic cuts look fun, chic and interesting!

Back to basics fashion trend:

how to spice-up the look 

How to spice-up your basic look

1. Add bold details to a basic look: 

Glam it up a bit. You want to wear an outfit that people will find interesting, less on the boring side. Basics, like t-shirt and jeans, aren't really going to cut it in the fashion industry unless you glam them up a bit. Add fun details like  Louboutin heels, leather or lace.

Bold red coat and leopard print heels with a basic look

2. Add sass to a basic black blazer:

If you want that classic back to basics look you can wear a cool black blazer with a funky print crop top, with black leather skinny jeans and black booties. When it comes to basics, you can also pair the black blazer with a coral blue ruffled mini dress and a black fringe bag to make the black blazer more sassy. 

Blush, Black and Denim

3. Add fabulous accessories to the basic look:

The typical back to basics fashion look would entail a pastel colored long skirt paired with a white blouse and flats. To add edge to the look, add a fabulous pair of heels and a glam handbag! Also, I would suggest a statement necklace or big hoop earrings. 

"Sweet Charity" Spiked Christian Louboutin Bag

4. Add print to a basic look: 

The way to make any basic and solid pieces stand out, add print. Wear the print either underneath your basic pieces (printed leggings) or over your basic pieces (printed blazer). Prints will create contrast with your basic pieces. 

Leopard print coat with an all black look and a Chanel 2.55

There you have it fashionistas, although basic cuts and pieces are back in style, you do not have to opt-in for the all around boring look. You can make the look edgy by following the four steps I listed above. How do you put together your basic pieces? Leave a comment below, I love hearing from you! Until next time, signing-off from New York City, xoxo!

Black on black basic look with a lace detail

Top 10 Fashion Trends for Winter 2020

By Katie Miller

Winter is fast approaching, in some places it’s already here, which is why we need to get ourselves up to date on the top winter trends to stay in the fashion loop. 

Top 10 Fashion Trends for Winter 2020

10. Wedge Heels

Time to heel back up everyone; no more pimped out Berkenstocks, Nike slip-ons, or the good ol’ Old Navy sandals (there’s a reason they’re on clearance!). The great thing about wedges is that you can dress them up or down, wear them to the beach or choose a shoe version and wear them out in the cold. There’s no limit to the versatility these bad boys can offer!

Winter 2020 fashion trends: white wedge heels

9. The DIY Look

I’m not saying you should go out and buy a sewing machine; it’s the look you should be after. Ditch your sporty gear and go more of the local artisan type feel-hello, thrift stores! If you need help understanding what I’m talking about, watch Chanel’s Fall/Winter fashion show, it’s all about the patchwork, distressed textures, and embroidery.

8. Nature Inspired

Dolce and Gabbana is all about the updated floral trend whereas Valentino loves the butterflies. Just about anything and everything nature is a go and the best thing about it is you can find this fashion look at just about any store at your local mall! 

7. Linear Patterns

Be creative and bold with this fashion trend. Every store out there has a basic striped long sleeve shirt- I don’t know about you, but I’m so over that. If you absolutely can’t live without, definitely go for something like Alexander Wang who has some fresh takes on the basic linear fashion style. Otherwise, search for zig zags or other wild patterns like Stella McCartney’s never ending stripe look.

Missoni tartan cardigan 

6. The Mid-Skirt

I might get some resistance for this one…but hear me out! Yes, the sixties mini dresses are still in, but I have to argue that look was geared more toward the fall fashion season. It’s cooling down now so break out your longer styles that inch past the knee, Zara has some really cute ones, and pair them with cool patterned tights. This look goes great with a big coat and some chic heels.

Club Fashionista founder Amra B. sporting a midi skirt 

5. Flare Pants

No more squeezing yourself into your super skinnies after gorging on turkey and stuffing this Thanksgiving! Instead, opt for a more laid back jean or knit pant; in case you haven’t heard, it’s all about the knits this season. Of course, skinny jeans will never go out of style, so don’t be afraid to rock them with your favorite pair of boots, but now, you can feel great about walking around in a fabulous pair of stretchy pants…when have you ever been able to say that?!

4. Darker Shades

Bright colors had their time this year. Now, it’s all about the neutrals and “murky” shades such as black, brown, plum, and burgundy. Isabel Marant has some really cool plaid and moss choices in her collection and H&M hits the nail on the head with their line as well. Need some bright in your life? Go for white! Emerald is also big right now, as seen in many collections on runways this season, including Christian Dior and Stella McCartney.

Winter Fashion Trend--
Dark Hues (Isabel Marant Winter 2020)

3. Knee High and Over the Knee Boots

This one will come as no surprise, boots have always been a winter staple and this season is no exception! Looking for a different option other than the go-to boots and skinnies? Try pairing them with a mid-length skirt and tights with a chunky turtleneck.

2. Knits

Especially all over knits. Although sweater outfits are all the rage, be sure to have some aspect of your outfit form fitting. My favorite are Céline and Stella McCartney’s super long knits; Isabel Marant has some pretty awesome knits in her collection as well, but if you’re anything like me and can’t afford designer prices, Top Shop and Zara have whole sections designated for this particular style, while H&M has a great line of comfy sweater tunics and cardigans to choose from. For more on how to rock knits this winter, click here. 

Club Fashionista founder Amra B. wearing a knit dress 

1. Cover Yourself

Throw those crop tops away! It’s all about the draped and layered look. Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you’ve probably noticed celebs rocking the cape. It’s in. Not your style? Choose a statement coat in a neutral or murky color (prints in these colors work well too!) and throw it over the simplest outfit you own to make for a comfortable yet stylish look. 

There you have it fashionistas, the top 10 fashion trends for Winter 2020! It seems like the lesson for today was to get in touch with Mother Nature this season as she shall serve as your fashion muse! Until next time, signing-off from Las Vegas! Xo.

Winter fashion trends: Miroslava Duma wearing a cape 

Top 5 Winter Fashion Items Under $100

By Brittany Dobbins

I’m sure many women struggle with buying fashion items on a budget, especially if you are a fashion blogger or designer. Nothing comes cheap. Well, I’m here to help you! I put together some of the top 5 winter fashion items just under $100...

Whether it’s Topshop, Urban Outfitters, H&M, Forever 21 or NY & Company, they have many affordable pieces for you to buy! You don’t always have to purchase the flashiest and the most expensive item in the store to look fabulous; rather, you want to find trendy items that fit your figure well. We can start with:

The top 5 fall/winter items under $100:

1. SASSY platform shoes from Top shop

These babies are only £95.00 and if you got them from another store for instance: Marc Jacobs they would obviously be much more expensive! They go with absolutely anything. I would definitely wear them out on the town with my friends or a date with a significant other, maybe even a casual walk to the market. With shoes like these you’ll be the talk of the town. Platform shoes have been quite the little trend in Hollywood recently, with celebs such as; Angela Simmons, Amber Rose, Beyonce and Hailey Baldwin wearing them. 

I really love platform shoes because they are totally different from any type of shoe. I like the “SASS” aspect to it as well. It gives platform shoes a whole different meaning. Normally you wouldn’t think platform shoes to be “sassy” but it works for me! Go out and buy a pair of “SASSY platform shoes from Topshop!

2. American Eagle Outfitters plaid Moto jacket $83.97…how great is that? 

The plaid motorcycle jacket is the latest fashion trend that I’m totally obsessed with, and I am sure all you fashionistas out there are too! It sort of has that vintage, rugged look to it, which I really love. It’s every girl’s dream to ride on the back of a motorcycle wearing their plaid Moto jacket! I can see myself wearing it while drinking a couple of beers and kicking back. It is also great for the cold weather as well. It keeps you warm and is very comfortable. Comfortable is always key when wearing this fashion item!

3. Top shop scallop lace Bodycon Dress 

At only $80.00 this chic lace dress is the perfect outfit for fall and winter as well! Celebs like Sandra Bullock & Nicole Scherzinger have been seen wearing look-alike scallop lace dresses as well. You can wear it with black leggings and a pair of over-the-knee boots to match! In winter it is super cold, so I would say wear a chic black fur coat! Such a great combo, ain’t it? You can also wear the dress with some cute pumps or for something more edgy, try combat boots! I wear combat boots with everything (dresses, jeans, skirts, etc) to get that grunge vibe/effect. You can wear it with any shoe you want. But try my combat boot idea!

4.Eva Mendes Collection

The Trina Lace Sheath Dress from NY & Company: Eva Mendes collaborated with NY & Company to create a collection that would showcase her style & amazing designs! I love the lace sheath dress because it’s classy & sophisticated just like Eva!

It is only $79.95, a great price. You don’t want to buy an expensive dress because it does not pay to spend all that money on one piece of clothing. This fashion item is perfect for fall weather, don’t you think? And it fits right under your budget! You can wear it with a chic cardigan and some black booties from DSW or any store you like! The holidays are coming up and this piece would be the PERFECT gift for your girlfriend, friend or family member! So ladies go go out & buy Eva’s collection!

5. PAVA Leather Convertible Crossbody Bag in white

I found this amazing white crossbody bag at Kohl’s for just $87.75. Crossbody bags have become a trend amongst many celebs such as Heidi Klum, Jessica Alba, Nina Dobrev, Supermodel Karlie Kloss, Rachel Bilson and many more! I think the reason why everyone is in love with the crossbody bag so much is because of the versatility & how chic it is. I love a good crossbody bag myself as well. You can wear it in different colors not just white (violet, ruby red, hot pink, etc). I like the white crossbody bag because it’s simple and not too over-the top compared to other bags. Also “keeping it simple” is definitely important when buying any bag. I don’t like a lot of embellishments on my bags because it takes away that “cool factor”. 

Simple, cool and chic fashion items just under $100, not a bad combo, huh? And, if you want to read more about tips on how to look faboulos for less, click here. 

Always keep it fashionable while staying under budget!

'Till next time....XOXO!