Submitted by Carrie Riggin — Columnist
If you think the weekend leading up to the annual Thanksgiving Day holiday would be a bit mellow, think again. There are festivities left and right celebrating the Raleigh community and the holidays (even Christmas!), and the fashion-forward ensembles below will have you attending in style.
Artspace 11th Annual Collectors Gala
This gala calls for a more refined look. Try this fall’s most wearable, yet elegant styles right off the runway:
Black-and-white patterned dresses and [pant] rompers: From intricate floral arrangements to quirky curlicues, this fall’s “it” prints are stark black-and-white.
Bohemian print dresses (my favorite trend!): You can pretend you’re back in the late ‘60s with this season’s sophisticated, ankle-length bohemian-print dresses. Wear the frocks on their own; under fitted, boxy jackets; or even with shrunken leather motorcycle-inspired outerwear.
Pale gray and crimson: These hues are the new substitutes for black this season. Try these colors in draped, soft, figure-flattering, jersey silhouettes.
Sharp black-and-white suiting: Prefer pants instead? Try the contrasting black-and-white, mix-and-match tailoring for a sharp and surprisingly feminine look. I guarantee you’ll turn heads far more than the usual gray, navy or black pantsuit.
A City Market Christmas and/or the Raleigh Christmas Parade
While taking horse-drawn wagon rides with warm apple cider in hand, or while watching the season’s best floats, you’ll want your Christmas spirit, not to mention your inner fashionista, to shine through. What better way to do that than via your attire? Holiday-inspired colors and the fall’s top accessories will keep your bundled-up look chic and ever fabulous. Who said you couldn’t look trendy in the winter?
Leggings: Instead of your usual cotton leggings, go for patterned tights or, dare I say, leather. Yes, leather is no longer just for the biker boys.
Boots: Pair your figure-hugging leggings with calf- or knee-high tan (not too light, not too dark) leather boots. Ankle high, black biker-boots, studded-out would even take this already edgy look to the next level.
Scarf: If your lower half is decked out with patterned pants, keep your top simple. And vice versa! Let’s say you take a risk (heaven forbid you stand out!) and go with the black leather biker-chic leggings; try a pop of color, like a jewel-toned, plaid or other decorative-patterned scarf. I recommend a thick, knitted or wool-textured piece for warmth.
Bangles: Complete your already out-of-the-box ensemble with an armful of statement bangles. Mix-and-match arm candy with various colors, textures, patterns and features. You’ll be surprised at how they come together for the finished touch.
Santa Hat: After all, it is the holiday season. Show some holiday cheer (and your younger spirit) with a Santa hat or set of reindeer ears. You have to be able to have fun with fashion, too, especially for Christmas!
