Ready to Dazzle // metallic pants + feathered top

Ring in 2019 with dazzling pieces designed to turn heads. While I have no problem being extra all year long, on New Year's Eve, extreme extraness is practically a requirement! This year, I'm loving statement sleeves, subtle sparkle, and wow-worthy metallics. The result? A party-ready combo that's both refined and impactful.

These feather sleeves are so much fun, and I love how they effortlessly transform a simple black blouse into something much more elegant and festive. It just goes to show you don't have to go way over the top to make a statement.

How about these metallic pants? They're undeniably perfect for the holidays, but I'm also looking forward to rocking them into the new year with a simple tee and leather jacket. On NYE though, these babies will definitely have you shining bright! Mission = accomplished.

 Photos by Dan Harper

[top: Ann Taylor (out of stock now, but I also like this one) // pants: Ann Taylor // booties: Ann Taylor (old, but I also like this pair) // purse: Alice & Olivia (I also like this one) // necklace: Madewell (I also like this one) // earrings: Ann Taylor (I also like this pair) // eyeshadow: Urban Decay's Naked 2 palette // lip color: limited edition Bite Beauty Amuse Bouche lipstick in Spiced Plum (similar shade here in "Maple")]

With pieces like these in my arsenal, I'm determined to sparkle all the way through midnight. This year I'll be in Manhattan for New Year's Eve, and to be honest, I'll most likely be playing it low key. But you better believe I won't be skimping on my ensemble! After all, the only way to ring in the new year is in style ;) 

// SHOP //

Holly Jolly // red sweater + leo skirt

Looking for a last-minute party outfit you can easily throw on and head out the door in? Spare yourself from looking like a hot mess with a no-fail combo that's both polished and effortless.

I've had this cropped red sweater forever, and party season after party season, it's been a go-to for me when I'm in a pinch. I usually pair it with high-waisted jeans or pants teamed with a heeled bootie, but here, I'm dressing it up a bit more with a flirty skirt in a graphic leopard print. Leopard skirts have been one of the biggest trends of 2018, and they're only picking up speed heading into the new year. Shop some of my favorite styles below!

You know I'm all about accessories. And while this look is simple, the extras truly complete it and help it look that much more festive. I've especially been loving layered gold necklaces lately, and this initial bauble is one of the newest pieces to hit my collection. I've pretty much been wearing it nonstop. Ps. It makes a fab stocking suffer!

Photos by Antonio Owens 

[sweater: Ann Taylor (old, but similar one here) // skirt: Ann Taylor (similar one here) // heels: Ann Taylor (old, but I also like this pair) // sunglasses: Ann Taylor (old, but I also like this pair) // purse: Furla // short gold necklace: Uncommon James // "K" necklace: Anthropologie // earrings: Kate Spade // eyeshadow: Stila Glitter & Glow Liquid Eye Shadow in "Kitten Karma" // lip color: Nars Limited Edition Powermatte Lip Luster in "Hardcore"]

These photos were taken this past Sunday when it was pouring down rain in New York City. Cursing myself for leaving my last Christmas-inspired post to the last minute, I knew I had to get creative. Brookfield Place immediately came to mind due to its abundant natural lighting, beautiful holiday decor, and, most importantly, indoor facilities — crisis officially averted! 

While it was too wet to wear this look out and about over the weekend, it makes a perfect outfit for any last-minute parties you may have coming up. Festive, chic, and totally on-trend, it can easily work from nine to wine!

// SHOP //

Dress, Optional // party look feat. formal track pants

Dresses not your thing? Temps too frigid for bare legs? Or maybe you're a fan of comfort and free range of motion. Whatever your reasoning, you do NOT need to rock a dress to feel festive and feminine — but you didn't need me to tell you that, did you? ;)

Switch up your party style this season with sleek trousers, formal track pants, elevated denim, or all of the above! I've been feeling more comfortable than ever lately in pants, and I love how this polished holiday look fuses sporty and traditional. To tie it all together, I weaved hints of white throughout. And I mean, how fabulous are these crisp white boots?

This is the first polo I've owned in a while, and I absolutely love it. Blair Eadie of Atlantic Pacific really nailed it, and she ended up designing a charming top that's just as versatile as it is chic. ...I've already worn it twice this week! 

Photos by Antonio Owens 

[top: Atlantic-Pacific x Halogen via Nordstrom // pants: Ann Taylor (I also like this pair) // blazer: Zara (similar one here) // boots: Nic + Zoe (almost sold out, but I also like this pair) // purse: Michael Kors (I also like this one) // earrings: J.Crew // lip color: Nars Manic Velvet Matte Lip Pencil Set in "Spike"]

As my social calendar's been filling up with parties and events, I've had to get more creative in my outfits than simply slapping on a dress and calling it an evening. I love how this outfit is subtly festive (hello emerald green blazer and pearl buttons) and easily fits in no matter the occasion. 

This past weekend, I wore this look to a holiday wine tasting party, and not only did I feel stylish and confident, but I was as comfy as can be! Pants, you're the real holiday MVP 👌

// SHOP //

A Dash of Red // off-the-shoulder + velvet pants

Coming in red hot with another festive look for the holidays. Featuring luxe velvet, refined off-the-shoulder detailing, trendy leopard, and of course statement-worthy red, this outfit pretty much has it all. But would you believe it's also deceivingly comfortable?

I actually featured these pants last December in this post, but I couldn't resist styling them again this year. Why? The softness! The stretchiness! The versatility! These babies are my secret weapon when I want to look put together (or dare I say, fancy?) but know I'll either A.) be eating a lot, or B.) be lounging/sitting a lot. Best of Both Worlds, I am here for you! 

I love sprinkling my holiday looks with extra special detailing of the shimmery, sparkly variety. Long, gold earrings like these are refined and light but still bring the drama. I especially love the way they frame my face!

 Photos by Antonio Owens

[blazer: Ann Taylor (similar style here) // bodysuit: Express (I also like this one) // pants: J.Crew // heels: Ann Taylor // clutch: Rebecca Minkoff (I also like this one) // earrings: Club Monaco (similar pair here) // gold spike bracelet: Stella & Dot // eyeshadow: Stila Shimmer & Glow Liquid Eye Shadow in "Smoky Storm" // lip color: Nars Manic Velvet Matte Lip Pencil Set in "Bondage"]

Christmas in New York City is a special thing. What's amazing is that so many stores, streets, and buildings get into the holiday spirit. Almost everywhere you look, you see larger-than-life decorations and lights, and it is SO picturesque.

Antonio and I took these photos this past weekend right out front of the Ralph Lauren flagship stores on the Upper Eastside. For those who haven't seen it, check out this pic and this pic. You see what I'm saying? ALL out! Sometimes I even feel like I'm in a Hallmark movie...

// SHOP //