Tag Archives: Holiday Gift Styles

Holiday Gift Style: My Favorite Items from Target on Sale TODAY!

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I’ve always been a big fan of Target, especially their A New Day, Stars Above, & Universal Thread brands, as well as SUGARFIX by BaubleBar jewelry collections. In fact, now that Black Friday weekend is upon us, most items I’ve featured on Style Darling Daily are on sale at an even better price for the season—TODAY ONLY. For example:

This post from August, SHOP NOW!: The Best Summer-To-Fall Pants for Work & Play from Target:

SHOP: A New Day’s high-rise slim straight pull-on pants @Target (on sale: $15.00, available in sizes XS-4X).

From Holiday Gift Style: Festive Earrings from SUGARFIX by BaubleBar @Target:

SHOP: SUGARFIX by BaubleBarDear Santa Statement Earring 3-piece set (on sale: $11.89), Season’s Greetings Statement Earring 3-piece set (on sale: $11.89), Sweet Tooth Statement Earring 3-piece set (on sale: $11.89), & Happy Hanukkah Statement Earring 3-piece set (on sale: $11.89) @Target.

SHOP: SUGARFIX by BaubleBarClaus Couple Statement Earrings in light & dark (on sale:$10.49), Merry & Light Statement Earrings (on sale: $9.09), & All is Calm All is Bright Statement Earrings (on sale: $6.99) @Target.

SHOP: SUGARFIX by BaubleBarHome for the Paw-lidays Statement Earrings (on sale: $9.09), Cat in a Hat Statement Earrings (on sale: $9.09), Jingle All the Way Statement Earrings (on sale: $9.09), & Winter Wonderland Statement Earrings (on sale: $9.09) @Target.

SHOP: SUGARFIX by BaubleBarIf You Know You Snow Statement Earrings (on sale: $9.09), Hog the Eggnog (on sale: $9.09), Tree Spirit Statement Earrings (on sale: $9.09), & Eight Nights Statement Earrings (on sale: $9.09) @Target.

Lastly, from my previous post entitled: SHOP NOW!: The Perfect Cami for Work & the Holidays!:

SHOP: A New Day v-neck cami in black or copper @Target (on sale: $12.00, available in sizes XS-4XL).

What are you looking for deals on this weekend? What’s on your holiday wardrobe list? What’s your favorite Target brand? For more Black Friday posts, check out: fuzzy cardigan sets for 40% off, sparkly sweaters by Ava + Viv, tunic sweaters from New York & Company, & holiday bling from Macy’s! Happy Styling!

Holiday Gift Style: Velvet Pull-On Pants for $26!

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Satin, lace, & sparkles are essential for any holiday look, but velvet really is the texture of the season. Last year, I was all about velvet leggings, but for festive days at work or attending parties, I’m all about velvet pants! Not to mention, ones with an elastic waistband that are pull-on!

SHOP: The Get velvet pull-on trousers in black @Walmart ($26.00, available in sizes XS-XXXL).

I came across these based on Instagram stories & I’ve already worn them twice this week! They’re true to size & very luxurious with a pullover sweater, embellished cardigan & shell, blouse & blazer, or wrap top & statement necklace. I just wish these were available in other colors, like navy, hunter green, burgundy, & plum. I’d definitely buy them all!

How would you style these pants? Where do you like to wear velvet? Where are you shopping for festive styles for a bargain? For more stylish posts, check out: holiday earrings from Francesca’s, a beauty & accessories flashback with Scarlett Johansson, & Taylor Swift & Carrie Underwood on the red carpet for the American Music Awards! Happy Styling!

Holiday Gift Style: Cheers to This Sweater for 61% Off in Sizes XXS-3X!

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‘Tis the season for festive style! As all the Black Friday deals are hitting shelves & the web, now is the time for cheer—literally! Today only, J. Crew Factory’s “Cheers!” Teddie sweater in black is 61% off ($34.50, marked down from $89.50)! What’s even better is that the fashionable topper is available in sizes XXS-3X!

To style this top, break out a sequin or faux leather pencil skirt with patterned tights & ankle bootie when heading out to a holiday gathering. Also, for a chilly weekend getaway with the family, try the sweater with paneled or velvet leggings & riding boots. Not to mention that plaid trousers or boyfriend jeans with ankle boots will also work! Check out these recommended items:

SHOP: paper-bag pull-on mini skirt @J. Crew Factory (on sale: $46.50, available in sizes XXS-3X), floral print tie-waist a-line scuba skirt @New York & Company (on sale: $39.97, available in sizes XS-XXL), high-waisted Rockstar super-skinny velvet pants in dark walnut @Old Navy ($49.99, available in sizes 00-30), extra high-waisted faux-leather zip ankle leggings in black @Old Navy ($44.99, available in sizes 0-30).

How would you style this sweater? Where would you wear it? What jewelry would you recommend? For more stylish posts, check out: Jennifer Aniston’s Allure cover shoot, an affordable ponte blazer from Aldi, a fashion flashback with Rachel McAdams, & Jennifer Lopez for Vogue’s December 2022 Issue! Happy Styling!

Holiday Gift Styles: Sparkles, Plaid, & Velvet High Heels!

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So a pair of high heels may not be on every Style Darling’s holiday wishlist & it’s nearly impossible to buy someone else high heels as a surprise—unless you’ve received a specific request, you know their style & size to a tee, or you’re a stylist who can read people’s style needs easily. However, for the rest of us, some high heels remain a dream & that’s fine. That’s not to say that I’ve hung up my high heel collection & passion, but we’re taking a break in the name of happy arches & comfortable days at work. With that… a little sparkle, plaid, & velvet perks my feet right up for holiday footwear!

SHOP: Liv pump in red plaid (on sale: 59.46, available in sizes 6-12), Liv pump in purple metallic (on sale: $62.96, available in sizes 6-12), & Lyla pump in teal green & purple (on sale: $55.96, available in sizes 6-12) @New York & Company. Check site & emails frequently for coupon codes!

I love the idea of pairing the plaid with a sweater dress & faux fur vest. Likewise, the metallic option can amp up a little black dress & statement necklace; whereas, the velvet styles with the blingy bow offset faux leather leggings & a tunic sweater or sheath dress & drop earrings for your next holiday gathering!

How would you style these shoes? Where would you wear them? What’s your go-to holiday shoe style? For more stylish posts, check out: a feminine & festive blouse from Walmart, a fashion flashback with Zoey Deutch & Emma Stone, & the LACMA Gala 2022 red carpet with Sydney Sweeney & Elizabeth Banks! Happy Styling!

Stocking Stuffer Sparklers!

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When in doubt, I always turn to accessories & jewelry for gift giving. It’s fun for me to shop through stacks & stacks of sparkly goodies, where I can always find a little something for myself too. However, with the days counting down closer & closer to Christmas, I’ve been curious about affordable stocking stuffers for our stylish friends. Jewelry is a perfect way to go, especially if you know someone’s style really well. When you find that special something, it’s hard to resist the spirit of gift giving! What’s especially great about my five latest picks is that the most expensive is $18, which works fro a budget-minded shopper.

A New Day cuff @Target

locket @IcingAubrey heart studs @BaubleBar earrings @dressbarnbeaded necklace set @Charming Charlie

Where are you shopping for stocking stuffers? Are you ready for the holidays? What sort of jewelry do you like to wear this time of year? For more posts on accessories, click here, here, here, & here. Happy Styling!

The Anytime Party Flat (on Clearance)!

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It’s no secret that when I find a style of something I looooove (like can’t-live-without-it love), I have to have it in every color / style. That goes for earrings, sweaters, skirts, & shoes–especially shoes! I’ve written about the Gigi flats by Christian Siriano for Payless previously (here), but now that I’m wearing these black & gold brocade shoes (for the first time, for a work holiday party), I’m shocked that they’re already on clearance for $12.00!

That’s an amazing must-have price for shoes that can really be worn for any special occasion. I will forever & always love me a high heel stiletto, but ballet flats have been tiptoeing into my heart for quite some time now & I feel no shame in wearing them. I’m not settling. I’m simply considering comfort along with style & with flats like these, I don’t have to sacrifice style one bit.

The only downsides (that I’ve noticed) is that not all Gigi styles are available in wide width, & also that the soft exterior probably won’t withstand wet weather. However, trying out a little pop of sparkle in the gold brocade will definitely add a splash of timeless sass for girls’ night out, an evening work function, or for just having a little fashionable fun.

What do you think of these brocade flats? How would you style them? For more shoe-inspired posts, click here, here, here, & here! Happy Styling!

Last-Minute Holiday Gift Ideas from H&M!

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It’s crunch time for holiday shopping & I know I’m scrambling for last-minute gift ideas for loved ones. However, in my search, I’m coming across a bunch of great finds for readers to consider from none other than H&M, which means these picks are not only affordable, but have a little extra personality & style, whether it’s a trend piece or something cozy. Any time you’re exchanging gifts, it’s always a good idea to consider a budget, but also, create a list with descriptive words & their interests. Here are some of my favorite picks from H&M to help make this season a little brighter & definitely more stylish!

fleece throw

glass carafesatin scarfsmall shoulder bag stud earrings setsunglasses

What’s your favorite of these last-minute holiday gift picks? Where do you shop when you’re in need of a quick gift? How do you prepare for the craziness of the holiday season? For more holiday inspired posts, click here, here, here, & here. Happy Styling!

12/17/2018 Darling of the Day: Jessica Alba’s Goes Gold!

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Whenever I’m seeking out style inspiration from celebrities (on the red carpet or their street style), my mind immediately races with ideas on how readers (& myself) can make a look their (affordable) own. Style isn’t this inaccessible thing anymore since there are so many reasonably price retailers that look to high fashion sources for their own inspiration too. Hence my latest post featuring actress / entrepreneur Jessica Alba dressing down a gold sparkly blouse with a velvet blazer by Frame (shop here), frayed wide leg jeans, black suede booties, & a gold buckle wide belt. A blazer & jeans are two staple items that we all have in our wardrobe, which is why this look is so easy to recreate without breaking the bank.

To build this look, here are two essential pieces, which can also be mixed & matched with other items throughout the holiday season & during the year. 

STARVNC sequin tank @Walmart & Thalia Sodi halter top @Macy’s (both available in sizes S – XXL)

faux suede ankle bootie @Forever 21 & Qupid Parma bootie @DSW

Which celebs do you turn to for street style & holiday inspiration? How do you get the most use out of your favorite & most sparkly holiday pieces? For more celebrity style posts, click here, here, here, & here. Happy Styling!

Red Hot Holiday Dresses for all Sizes!

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The holidays are around the corner & I can’t help, but embrace all the luxurious reds in my wardrobe, whether it’s velvet, brocade, knits, suede, or leather. However, a little red dress for this time of year is perfect for celebrating all that’s joyful & stylish. Red isn’t just stylish in a fire engine hue; there’s crimson, burgundy, apple, & so many more shades to mix & match with metallic accessories. I’m pretty obsessed with red this last week (as seen by my latest Instagram posts), which is why I’m inspired to share these flirty & seasonal red dresses.

glamorous Guest dress @Mod Cloth

velvet fit & flare dress @dressbarn

Eva Mendes Collection sequin dress @New York & Company

These dresses might look extra fancy, but they can be styled many different ways to get the most wear out of them. For example, try knotting a denim button down shirt over one or throwing on a chunky sweater & use the skirt as a dress? Red is also a great foundation for a gold statement necklace, silver accessories, or black beads too. For more holiday posts, click here, here, here, & here. Happy Styling!

Festive Fringe Earrings!

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It’s no secret that I love a bauble & sparkle, but I’ve been hesitant to get on board the fringe earrings trend. That’s only because I typically wear my hair down with big earrings, so I’m concerned that the fringe will get tangled in my hair or the extra flair will simply get lost in my tresses. However, as I scour the web for some fabulous, fashionable, & affordable holiday buys, I keep finding myself clicking on fringe earrings to consider as gifts for my most stylish friends.

Corey fringe earrings @Francesca’s

Fatou fringe earrings @Charming Charliefringe earrings @Express

fringe earrings @LOFT

SUGARFIX by BaubleBar fringe earrings @Target

Not only do they make a joyful statement for any outfit, they will instantly dress up a t-shirt & jeans, chunky knit & leggings, or a chic athleisure ensemble.

Do you like to wear fringe earrings? How do you style a look around them? Where are your favorite places to shop for jewelry? For more posts on affordable & stylish jewelry, click here, here, here, & here! Happy Styling!

Leopard Tops for All Sizes!

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If there’s one print I love for any time of the year, it’s leopard. It’s a fun option for a sweater, blouse or top to pair with jeans, leggings, pants, or a skirt, especially when matching it up with a pop of color like red, hot pink, or green. Wearing a leopard top also opens up the opportunity to try some playful bling too in a statement necklace, big earrings, or stacked bangles. Here are some affordable must-have leopard options for misses & women’s sizes for sale now!

blouse @Chico’s

sweater @New York & Company

sweater @Stein Mart

tee @Torrid

top @Charlotte Russe

When it comes to leopard, you don’t always have to wear black with it. Try something with texture, a seasonal color, or add a little sparkle. You can definitely get a lot of miles out of a leopard top because of all of its styling possibilities. 

corduroy pants @LOFTfaux leather skirt @Charlotte Russefaux suede skirt @Fashion Novaskinny jeans @Old Navyrhinestone jeans @dressbarn

How do you like to style leopard separates? What are your favorite patterns to wear? Where are you shopping most for affordable fashion this season? For more posts like this, click here, here, here, & here. Happy Styling!

Step Into Style With These Holiday-Ready Heels!

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The holiday season is the perfect time to bring out the sparkle, especially as your social calendar is filling up. A little shine & glow never hurt anyone, which is why showing off some glitter, glitz, or luxury in footwear is an easy way to step into the holiday spirit with any look. Right now, there are so many can’t-miss holiday sales, especially on shoes, that I had to check out what’s happening @DSW.

These flirty & playful shoe options make for a great finishing touch to a little black dress, a red velvet sheath frock with a leather jacket, a lacey-ruffle blouse & skinny jeans, or dressing up flannel & a statement necklace. Not to mention that the following top picks are not just perfect for this season, but for any upcoming special occasion, which makes them worth the investment.

ALDO Craysa pumpBetsey Johnson Izzy sandalEssex Lane Valan pumpJournee Collection Kitt pumpMix No. 6 Trissa pump

Where are you shopping for the best Cyber Monday deals? What kinds of shoes do you like to wear during the holidays? Do you like lace or velvet details in your footwear? For more shoe-inspired posts, click here, here, here, & here. Happy Styling!

Cozy Capes, Pretty Ponchos, & Big Blanket Scarves!

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The seasons have certainly changed (at least here on Long Island) & my wardrobe has been flipped to prepare me for what’s to come! Some days I can still get away with wearing my denim jacket when heading out, whereas other days, I’m in need of something a little heavier to ward off the dropping temperature. Here’s where a cape, poncho, or blanket scarf enter the stylish picture. Not only are these popular gift items for the holiday season, but they’re must-haves for any fall afternoon. I hate the bulkiness of my coat when I’m running around on the weekend, especially when the stores are packed & I start to get hot, so a cape, poncho, or blanket scarf get me through the hustle & bustle. Also, I always bring one with me when headed to the movies for date night just to make sure I’m comfortable in front of the big screen.

They serve as perfect outerwear to pair with boots, as well as with a turtleneck & skinny jeans, layering tops & leggings, & a sweater dress. Check out these affordable options & all the different color/pattern combinations to make your coziest fashion dreams a reality.

Dressbarn

DSW

Kohl’sLulusVince Camuto @Macy’s

What’s your go-to outerwear piece? Where do you like to shop for fall favorites? For more fall-inspired fashion, check out previous posts here, here, here, & here. Happy Styling!

Holiday Shopping Head Start!

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‘Tis the season to be gifting! Thanksgiving is next week, which means that it’s time to make that gift-giving list (if you choose to do so). There are so many useful, cute, & affordable gift options out right now to fill your most fashionable friends with style & joy this season. Personally, I don’t buy gifts just for the sake of buying meaningless stuff to give to  anyone. I like to pick special pieces that will really please a recipient & serve a function—even if that function is indulgence & luxury.

When compiling your shopping list, consider if an item is something that they’ll actually use, that it’s not just a filler gift. Also, jot down their interests by their name on your list so that if you can look out for something particularly perfect for a friend or loved one. Lastly, I’ll often discuss with people close to me if they want to exchange gifts (& if so, establish a spending limit) or if they’d prefer to go out for dinner instead. Sometimes arranging a night with a group of friends with dinner & drinks is the best way to go. However, listing, shopping, wrapping, & giving are my favorite ways to put me in the holiday spirit.

All of the below ideas are not just stylish, but they’re all under $15.

beanie @Charlotte Russebook @TJMaxxgift set @Ultaearrings @Francesca’sscarf @H&M

I love discovering accessories as gifts because they add just a little bit more sparkle, which I know I’m always seeking for myself. What kinds of gifts are you shopping for this season? Where do you shop for the best deals this holiday? Happy Styling!

 

The Best Floral Shoes for the Holidays!

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The holidays are just around the corner & as much as I love indulging in seasonal duds (red knits, green velvet pieces, fair isle sweaters, etc.), I’m always excited to get my hands on (or feet in, in this case) a new find that can be interpreted for the holidays & beyond. I’m talking about the Habit pump & Gigi flat @Payless by Project Runway winner Christian Siriano (a favorite designer of mine!) whose shimmer black floral footwear opens up the styling possibilities for fall, winter, & spring!

Habit pump @Payless

Gigi flat @Payless

I love these shoe options because of their versatility. They can be worn to the office & easily transition for evening for a night on the town or holiday party. They offer the perfect pop of personality for a little black dress, gold-burgundy outfit combination, & a blush blouse & skinny jeans. Also, these two styles of shoes are made in another matching heel-flat companion (for example: black with silver studs here & here), both of which are equally comfortable & chic for a variety of looks.

Holiday florals don’t have to be the traditional poinsettia or all about holly, especially when getting the most mileage out of your wardrobe investments will pay off better in the long run. For more fun shoe-related posts, click here, here, here, & here! Happy Holiday & Happy Styling!

Make A Stylish Statement–Not Just For The Holidays Either!

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Statement necklaces never go out of style. They instantly elevate any outfit & reinvent a look’s accompanying pieces.I love mixing & matching statement necklaces with solid tops or printed dresses, often playing on color combinations to brighten up an ensemble, while also framing the face &, of course, facing the day like the true Style Darling!

Also, statement necklaces aren’t limited to special occasions or the holiday season. Add that extra element of sparkle creates interest in any look, as well as gets the most worth out of your accessories.

To help you get inspired when trying a statement necklace for the first time (or if you’re scouring for new ways to wear old favorites), check out Taraji P. Henson, Scarlett Johansson, Kerry Washington, & Cate Blanchett.

Remember, statement necklaces aren’t just for the red carpet either! Now that it’s starting to get chilly out, you’re breaking out the layers to bundle up & that shouldn’t exclude jewelry. Try wearing a glitzy statement necklace over a chunky sweater with leggings & riding boots or a statement necklace over a sweater dress with patterned tights. Shop these affordable & stylish finds to build your go-to statement necklace inventory for a variety of occasions.

Charming Charlie

Dressbarn

Forever 21

For more statement necklace inspiration, check out this timeless trend in previous posts here, here, here, & here. Happy Styling!

Accessories Access: Affordable & Cute Cold Weather Must-Haves!

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Baby, it’s cold outside, which means that you better bundle up in style! That includes hats, headwraps, scarves, & gloves when facing the brutal change in temperature. Not to mention that for Cyber Monday, there are plenty of great buys to help solve your holiday gift giving dilemma, & why not treat a loved one to something cozy & chic like a pom pomp beanie or luxe infinity scarf? Here in the Northeast, it’s been windy & chilly, which means that I’m not leaving the house without layers of elegant extras that won’t add too much frompy bulk. However, as an avid collector of scarves, I’ve found that when it comes to cold weather accessories, there’s such a variety in colors & textures to create an interesting & stylish outerwear look to play with how you style your go-to winter coat.

SHOP: faux fur pom pom beanie @Forever 21, embellished hat @dressbarn, knit headband @H&M, crochet beret @Icing, cable headwrap @Payless, & earflap pom pom beanie @Target.

SHOP: ribbed infinity scarf @Forever 21, knit tube scarf @H&M, shimmer tassle scarf @dressbarn, leopard oblong fringe scarf @Charlotte Russe, & plaid blanket scarf @Target.

SHOP: waffle knit fingerless gloves @Charlotte Russe, wool blend bow gloves @H&M, textured leather gloves @Forever 21, wool flower glove @Target, & quilted studded gloves @dressbarn.

Happy Styling!

Holiday Gift Style: Embellished Cardigans!

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One of my latest obsessions this season, to pair with my other obsession: the pencil skirt, is an embellished cardigan. I’ve always been a cardigan girl, opting for the softness of a button-down topper that could be mixed & matched with skirts, jeans, pants, & even over a dress. This is the perfect season for just such a cardigan, one with dazzling sequins, beads, & stones, in designs inspired by a winter wonderland, feminine florals, or holiday sparkle. There are plenty of high-end cardigans on the market, but as always, I’ve selected some style that will surely fit any budget & heighten your holiday ensemble!

SHOP: black cardigan @dressbarn, cream cardigan @Target, red pearl crewneck cardigan @New York & Company (also available in black & white in sizes XS – XXL), red jewel collar cardigan @Walmart (also available in black, gray, & ivory in sizes S-XXL), heather cardigan @Macy’s (also available in pink & ivory in sizes XS-XXL), & black embellished neck cardigan @Nordstrom Rack (also available in gray in sizes S-XL).

Happy Styling!

Accessories Access: Holiday Party Circuit Clutches!

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‘Tis the season to be glitzy! When you’re getting for your the biggest holiday events, shopping for & coordinating your favorite party dresses & shoes, don’t forget about the all-important clutch, especially when hitting the cocktail party circuit where a bulky bag just won’t do. Investing in a classic, all-purpose clutch bag will serve your wardrobe over & over again, & this time of year, you won’t even have to break the bank for that final finishing piece. Take some inspiration from red carpet pros whose clutch game is on point for any occasion, including Reese Witherspoon, Anne Hathaway, Gigi Hadid, Emma Roberts, Jennifer Hudson, Anna Kendrick, & Kerry Washington. 

Because it is the holiday season, I scouted the web for party-specific bags that will pop with any look, whether it’s an LBD, sparkly frock, sleek jumpsuit, or fit & flare number. The following selections are $40 & under from some of my favorite retailers that I often turn to when getting my wardrobe state of mind into party mode.

SHOP: Tevolio merlot mesh clutch @Target, Luxe by Carmen Marc Valvo tassel clutch @dressbarn, sequin shoulder bag @H&M, & faux fur pouch @Nordstrom.

SHOP: metallic rhinestone clutch @Francesca’s, burgundy velvet minaudiere @Century 21, wine foldover clutch @Forever 21, & gold ring clutch box @Icing.

Happy Styling!

Holiday Gift Styles: Cozy & Cute Sleepwear!

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As we gear up for all the Black Friday fuss, start making your lists now of what you’re getting your loved ones, especially those stylish ones. A holiday favorite when it comes to gifts is sleepwear because everybody likes to cuddle up in style, feel relaxed & perhaps with a little sense of humor, don something cheeky (literally too, but this isn’t that kind of post). Everywhere I go, I see all sorts of fun holiday & season-themed pajama sets, night shirts, pajamas, slippers, & socks. I know winter isn’t as bad everywhere like it is in the northeast, but keeping it cozy & chic on heavy snow days & chilly evenings with a cup of tea always warms my heart & wardrobe. Here are some sweet suggestions on how Santa can help dress you & your friends for the season! 

SHOP: black sleep set @dressbarn, santa pajamas @Target, one-piece microfleece pajamas @Kohl’s, lace print pajamas @TJMaxx, Terry kimono robe @Macy’s, green sleep tee @Victoria’s Secret, & pink sleep tee @Victoria’s Secret.

SHOP: leopard slippers @Soma, knit slippers @H&M, penguin sock @Old Navy, & leopard socks @Old Navy.

Where do you like to shop for sleepwear? Do you prefer matching sets? What patterns or colors do you shop for when considering sleepwear? Happy Styling!

Accessories Access: Stylish & Sparkling Statement Necklaces ($25 & Under)!

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It doesn’t have to be the holiday season for me to wear something sparkly, especially a statement necklace. I’m always curious & mindful about how I’m pairing my accessories together to portray a chic look that isn’t too busy either. I love exploring color & shape combinations over my tops & dresses to rediscover new ways to wear each piece from season to season. Check out (below) some of my favorite recent statement necklace looks (as posted on my Instagram @MissAlissaL).

For those of you who are hesitant about dipping yourself in dripping gems, now is the time to explore the different color & shape possibilities with statement necklaces, as well as bold bib necklaces & collar necklaces. I love surprising myself with how a sparkling piece of jewelry can really make an outfit special, dressed up, & appear a lot more expensive. However, when investing in fashion jewelry, it’s important to choose diverse pieces that you can get the most use from. Try some showstopping stones over a plaid shirt, pearls & beads with a graphic tee, or feminine floral motifs with a heavy knit.

SHOP: 1. braided necklace @Francesca’s, 2. bib necklace @New York & Company, 3. green rhinestone necklace @H&M, & 4. bead & stone statement necklace @Target.

SHOP: 5. flower necklace @Dressbarn, 6. drops statement necklace @Charming Charlie, 7. gem statement necklace @Forever 21, & 8. pearl & crystal statement necklace @Icing.

How often do you wear statement jewelry? Where do you like to shop for the best jewelry bargains? What trends are inspiring your holiday style? Happy Styling!

Color Me Style: Daily Look’s New Year’s Eve Little Black Dress Style Challenge!

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It’s been a very fortuitous holiday season for my blog so far & the style keeps on coming! Style Darling has been invited to participate in Daily Look‘s New Year’s Eve Style Challenge, featuring the website’s best little black dresses to sport from party-to-party before the year is up. Of course there are many ways to don classic black, a favorite to feature in Color Me Style, such as lace, leather, silk, satin, along with many different shapes & styles.

However, before we get started, I’ve had LBDs on my mind, especially when there’s so much celebrity inspiration hitting the red carpet.  For example, Diane Kruger in a black lace Elie Saab cocktail dress with a black Osman blazer, a graphic Charlotte Olympia clutch, & striped lace-up Sophia Webster heels. Also, Scandal star Kerry Washington makes a bold statement in a leather little black dress with Jennifer Fisher jewelry & white pumps. Oscar-winner Lupita Nyong’o was stunning in a ruffled LBD by Fitriani, black pumps, & jewelry headband.

Diane Kruger, Kerry Washington, & Lupita Nyong'o.Cameron Diaz, Hailee Steinfeld, & Nicola Peltz.Also,  Cameron Diaz dazzled in little black dress by Isabel Marant with a quilted Chanel purse & Givenchy ankle-strap sandals. Hollywood it-girl Hailee Steinfeld was chic in a black high-neck David Koma pencil dress with capped silver pumps. Newcomer Nicola Peltz played with her youthful style in a black cut-out dress by Michael Kors with strappy sandals.

There’s so much to look forward to when it comes to upcoming fashion trends, but the little black dress is here to stay, especially when seen with runway inspiration from the recent Spring 2015 Ready-To-Wear Collections that hit the runway during this past Fashion Week season. LBDs were seen on the runway in modern cuts, with plunging necklines, embellished details, cinched wasitlines, sweetheart necklines, & figure flattering shapes. This includes looks from Kenzo, Dolce & Gabbana, & Saint Laurent.

Kenzo. Dolce & Gabbana. Saint Laurent. Sprng 2015 Ready-To-Wear.Alexander Wang. Anthony Vaccarello. Vera Wang. Spring 2015 Ready-To-Wear.Also, I just had to share these stunning looks from the Spring 2015 Ready-To-Wear from designers Alexander Wang, Anthony Vaccarello, & Vera Wang.

Now that there’s LBD inspiration oozing off the screen, here are some of the best little black dresses from Daily Look, which can work for a variety of shapes & sizes, if you want to show off your legs, neckline, figure, or shoulders.

Daily Look. Little Black Dresses.

SHOP: pleated a-line midi dress ($59.99), mesh strip midi dress ($44.99), bejeweled cuffs bodycon dress ($49.99), lovely lace midi dress ($49.99), jersey knit long sleeve maxi dress ($55.99), & jessa open back midi dress ($59.99).

You can’t shop for New Year’s Eve without considering some blinged-out accessories, sparkling jewelry, & sexy shoes to complete your look, which is why I picked some of the most affordable & investment-worthy pieces to really bring out your inner glam girl.

Daily Look Accessories.SHOP: fringe earrings ($16.99), sequin multicolor clutch ($44.99), vixen cross strap heel ($39.99), harmony stone plated necklace ($24.99), sparkling pave link bracelet ($64.99), simple strap heel ($39.99), Jane Taylor rhinestone clutch ($64.99), & J.O.A. square pearl ring ($19.99).

Lastly, when it comes to the holidays, not only do your outfits get a chance to shine, but also your beauty look is allowed to be a little extra special, which is why I’ve shared some of my favorite celebrity looks that emphasize one facial feature or makeup style in order to show off the best version of you. This includes new mom Mila Kunis who nails a smoky eye & neutral lip for a dramatic & sexy look, prefect for any cocktail dress. Ingenue Bella Thorne plays with metallic eyeshadows to emphasize the shape of her eyes, as well as play up the glitz of the holiday with playful hues. Experiment with bright eyeliners like Jessica Biel who is making quite the beauty statement with an edgy turquoise swipe of a pencil underneath her lower lash line.

Mila Kunis, Bella Thorne, & Jessica Biel.Beyonce, Reese Witherspoon, & Rita Ora.Another way to play up your eyes is to follow Beyoncé‘s lead with winged liner, recalling a dramatic Cleopatra look that works with a sheath dress or sleek jumpsuit. American sweetheart Reese Witherspoon goes for a soft look with rosy cheeks & classic makeup, which easily makes you photo-ready before the ball drops. Brit singer Rita Ora looks stunning with a bold red lip that draws on her Old Hollywood appeal for some vintage inspiration, perhaps paired with a lacy or beaded frock.

What’s your New Year’s Eve style? Where are you shopping for your holiday essentials? Which are your favorite little black dresses from Daily Look? To see my favorite New Year’s Ever Daily Look ensemble, check out their Style Sets! For more stylish posts, be sure to check out previous posts including holiday gift styles from luxury brands & affordable retailers, how to winterize your nails from Julep, & sleeping in style with Casper’s Beauty Sleep Challenge! Happy Styling!