Holiday Style, Part 1

Last year was my first time to attend a “formal” holiday party at work. I agonized over what to wear – I considered renting a dress from Rent the Runway, I shopped multiple times for the “perfect” dress. When it came down to it, I ended up settling for a pretty, but simple black cocktail dress that I found at TJ Maxx for $50. I was okay with it – but it didn’t really feel like me, and I went to the party that night feeling like I could’ve done a better job dressing myself. To add insult to injury, I quickly discovered that our IT manager’s wife had chosen the same dress – we laughed it off, but it was bummer in my book of always feeling best as an original.

Last year: Twinsies!

This year, I was determined to be a little more intentional with my holiday outfit. I chose two different options; I’ll be sharing the first one today, and second one early next week. The one you’ll see now is what I ultimately chose to wear to this year’s office party, which will be held after work tonight. It’s a little less formal, a little more fun, a whole lot more me than last year’s dress, and I couldn’t be happier with it.

I bought this shirt from Plato’s closet a few months ago, in pristine condition with a $170 boutique tag still attached. I’ve never heard of the brand (Paperwhite), but the quality is in so amazing and it’s the perfect “Christmas” plaid. I purchased the skirt on clearance from ASOS at the end of the season last year – I’ve been dying for another chance to wear it! I kept my accessories bold, but simple, to compliment the sequins on the skirt, and finished the look with my favorite patent leather crossbody/clutch from Coach (purchased when I worked as a seasonal employee a few years ago!)

Finally, I would like to mention that all these photos were taken by my incredibly talented friend Mike, of Michael Hansen Photography. You can check out his blog here, and his Facebook page here. He’s also got a pretty sweet instagram account – you can follow him @jmhansen OR on twitter @jmhansenphoto (Kid’s got his social media ducks IN A ROW!). Mike and I did a four-outfit shoot a few weeks ago, and the pictures are just… well, they make me feel like a rockstar. Can’t say enough good things. I’m incredibly proud of them, and him, and I hope you enjoy seeing some more professional photos on the blog!

What I’m wearing: Paperwhite Tattersal plaid shirt, thrifted (similar); sequin pencil skirt, ASOS (similar); suede wedges, Nine West via Ross (similar); belt & sunglasses, unknown; clutch, Coach (similar over $100, similar under $100), left hand bracelet, thrifted; right hand pave chain bracelet, J.Crew via eBay (J.Crew version, eBay version, ILY Couture version, Hello Fab version); nails, OPI GelColor in “Skyfall”

It was 80 degrees the day we took these photos in Southlake Town Square. I almost DIED in that long sleeved shirt.

Quick story: I’ve been eyeing the Classic Pave Link Bracelet at J.Crew for months, but I just couldn’t justify the $128 price tag. It’s not in my nature to pay full price for anything. After countless searches online and on eBay, I finally found this version for $24.99 + shipping on eBay (link above). It’s a complete knock-off, but I love it the same

I couldn’t not share this next one: while we were taking pictures next to a fake snow machine, a little girl ran up and started playing. She was so carefree – completely unaware of what was going on around her. I envy that a little!

Part 2 should hit the blog early next week, so stayed tuned for a little more holiday sparkle!