Style guide for any winter occasion!

- Kristin H.

It’s that time of year when our calendars fill up with parties, get-togethers with family and friends, and fun holiday activities. We are here to help with one of the main stressors surrounding these events; What am I going to wear?! With the help of Mellicia Marx, Stylist and Owner of Poplin Style Direction - a personal styling company in Seattle, we are giving you the best guide for what to wear for every holiday event!

Date-night:
There are so many fun holiday date night options this time of year! But its hard to know what to wear, especially in cold weather! How do you look cute and also stay warm?

​Mellicia's Advice: Think about where you are going (or could potentially go) and ensure that your clothes encourage a night to remember. First, select pieces that communicate who you are but are also functional for long walks, temperature changes and long nights.

For men: Think about your outfit and think about your date’s outfit, too. She/he will appreciate a date who has an umbrella and a warm coat to share. Bad weather can turn into a great date. It’s all about preparation. People often think that men’s shoes are always more comfortable than women’s shoes. Not true. Be sure to wear a pair of shoes that looks amazing and is also comfortable for a long night out. Multiple layers just make the look better so embrace opportunities to stay warm and look incredible. If you are at a loss, head straight to Esquire Magazine for examples. A shirt, sweater, jacket and coat is both warm and dapper.
For women: Try a maxi skirt with a sexier top. You can wear fleece leggings under a maxi skirt that keep you nice and warm while allowing you to have a lighter weight top on. If you get warm, just take off the leggings in the restroom and toss them in your bag. The next time you search for a new dress or jumpsuit, filter out anything that doesn’t have long or ¾ sleeves. They’ll keep you warmer without having to layer. But, if things are colder, add a leather jacket or blazer over top. Always have great coat to make a smashing impression and keep you warm. Bring an umbrella in your bag and opt for a wool coat. Or keep a puffer and flats or hip sneakers in your car.  

Meeting the Parents:
If you are in a new relationship, the holidays are the perfect time to get to know your significant other's family. Family dinner parties and celebrations are sure to be happening and they can be especially nerve racking if you are trying to impress! ​

Mellicia's Advice: Seattle is notorious for our casual style. First and foremost, you want to be comfortable and up for anything while still looking very put together. What are you trying to communicate to your partner’s family? Let your clothes help you make a great first impression.

For men: Bring something appropriate for a religious service or dinner at a nice restaurant, just in case. A collared shirt and tie with trousers is just fine. Add a sweater or jacket to really pull everything together. For the day to day, plan on chinos or denim with a collared shirt or sweater. Really, this is about staying true to your personal style so you feel like yourself while showing your partner (and his or her family) that you care to put the effort in.
For women: Start by packing a coat that makes you feel stylish and keeps you warm. Think about where you are going. If you’ll be somewhere outdoorsy, your camel colored wool coat may be too dressy for all occasions. Consider packing a layering puffer coat just in case you are recruited for a family football game. Next, be sure to pack something that you’d feel confident in at a nice restaurant or religious ceremony. Depending on your style, this could be a classic sheath dress or a pair of trousers and a blouse or sweater, as an example. For the everyday, I vote for denim and great sweater or long sleeve top that communicates your personal style. If you’d like to kick it up a notch, consider a maxi dress. It’s as comfortable as a pair of pajamas but looks more feminine and polished than a pair of jeans and a top. And bring layering pieces in case you are cold. When you’ve got a great look, you don’t want to steal the joy by layering a borrowed coat over top to hide the joy. 

Office Party:
The annual office holiday party can be especially difficult to dress for. Looking festive and professional, but still feel comfortable all at the same time can be hard! 

Mellicia's Advice: If it’s possible, ask someone who attended last year’s party about the dress code for a more accurate description of what folks are really wearing. Think about what you normally wear to the office and kick it up a notch with something unexpected that is true to your personal style. Take advantage of this opportunity to take your look to the next level.

For men: If you normally wear a collared shirt, add a tie or go from denim to nicer pants or add a blazer. Accessories really make the difference, so if you are feeling adventurous, select a tie, handkerchief and/or socks that show your style.
For women: The plus one approach works for you, too. For a less dressy party, elevate your look by adding accessories, heels, lipstick or a leather jacket to an outfit that you could wear to work. If you expect that attendees will be wearing a wide range of outfits, try a jumpsuit and heels. It shows confidence and is a stylish and appropriate choice for most occasions. If cocktail attire is appropriate, go for it. Just remember to wear shoes that allow you to enjoy yourself no matter what the evening brings. 

Holiday Musicals:
Always a fun and spirited holiday activity perfect for a date night or night out with family or friends. A great way to get in the holiday spirit and a fun excuse to dress up for a night.

Mellicia's Advice: Whether you are at a Broadway show or experiencing local theater, you can expect a range of dress from jeans and a nice top to semi-formal and even formal attire. The key is to feel like the best version of yourself in an outfit that makes you feel attractive and confident.

For men: If you can comfortably rock a suit, do it now. If you enjoy having fun with your clothes, this is a great time to try accessories that give a nod to the season as in red socks or a red velour tie. Keep it classy and simple, but a bit festive. Remember to bring an umbrella to escort your date out in the elements and keep you both stylish and dry.
For women: This season’s trends are ideal for this outing. Velvet is everywhere and a bold pair of velvet ankle boots or heels with your dress, jumpsuit or modern pants celebrates the occasion. Alternatively, feel empowered to rock a bold or unexpected sleeve which will keep you warm and fashionable. Remember, your coat is everything. So, wear one that brings out the polished, classy version of you. Wool is just fine with an umbrella, so save the North Face for another day. 

Friend's Holiday Party:
Ugly Christmas Sweater themed parties are one thing, but for most other holiday parties you will want to wear something a little more sophisticated!

Mellicia's Advice: This is when you really get to let your style shine. Your friends love you so this is a nice opportunity to be especially daring with your look. If there’s something you’ve been hesitant to try but have been especially drawn to, this is your moment.

For men: Break out a hip jacket or another second layer. Whether you are opting for a field jacket, a blazer or a cardigan, this is your moment to place something stylish over a tee or collared shirt. If this is your baseline, think about adding a tie. Remember that your shoes will determine if your look is polished, sporty or tailored. Take a few minutes to polish your shoes before you head out and you’ll look and feel incredible.
For women: Embrace your inner style nerd and go for that pair of, “I don’t think I can pull those off,” boots you’ve been pining over. Think about what you are trying to communicate to the other people in the room. Are you edgy? Feminine? Quirky? Wear components that make you feel like yourself then integrate an adventure piece (or more) into the mix. Whether it’s a lower cut long sleeve dress or a mini sweater dress with over the knee boots, don’t be afraid to channel your sexy side in this fun environment! 

About Mellicia

Mellicia Marx believes fashion is for everyone and has been styling friends, family and random people on the street for her entire life. She is the Founder of Poplin Style Direction (video!) and has a can't miss blog that will keep you up to date with the latest styles!