The Budget Fashionista

As the holidays approach, we're thinking about all those parties we get invited to. Perusing the holiday dress offerings, so much of what's budget seems to be geared at the under 30 set (super short, sparkly dresses were NOT made for everyone . . . ). So we're looking for the best budget holiday style tip for mature fashionistas everywhere . . .

I was thinking about this the other day, we may have some holiday parties to attend this year. I am going to pull my little black dress out of the closet and wear it with my slingback black pumps. I do need to get a decent black purse to go with. Buying one at Target makes since because it will only be used a couple of times a year so it won't wear out fast. I need a more interesting necklace to wear with it.

Separates are your best friends. Back away from the holiday sweaters, and go for one that's embellished instead. It will have more opportunities to wear it. I dress up a plain outfit with a silk scarf with poinsettias printed on it or a little nutcracker brooch that cost about a buck.

All black or a holiday sweater? Those aren't your only choices!

Last year I did a gunmetal gray dress topped with a Teal silk velvet jacket. Yeah, I stood out in the sea of black...I also looked a lot younger than the rest of the crowd (even those younger than me).

This year I've got a silver sweater (Avenue on sale for $20) that I'll slip over a black sheath dress ($15 from The Gap) with black heels and a silver bead bag from Target ($9 from Target).

Or maybe I'll go with the gold and black silk tie-back blouse that I got on eBay for $8 with a pair of black pants(Nine West that I've had for a while) and a pair of gold peep-toe pumps that I got for $30 at Macy's with a gold clutch (that I got for free with the $10 coupon for any purchase of $10 or over..so it was FREE).

But really: all black! Fifty doesn't have to be frumpy and/or boring.

As mentioned before, I cannot stand the Christmas sweaters.

I do not understand how anyone can think they look good!!!!!!


I see them a lot in Texas. My new pet peeve.

I love color for "mature " fashionistas - especially jewel tones. They are so rich looking,very elegant, and a bit demure. I can't do too shiny embellishments and I usually don't do sleeveless. But this year I found a stunning deep red, almost shantung-like, scoop neck top with beatiful ruffles around the neck ( it reminded me of Carolina Herrera or Iman). I also got a lovely super-fine merino wool sweater with matching black"jewels" on the 3/4 length sleeve and sweater hem. ( both from Ann Taylor at fire sale prices ). I have to say, it is the first time that I have bought something new for the holidays in probably 5-7 years.

I like a bit of restrained elegance for Christmas, but I like to see a bit more ka-boom for New Year's - though I would never do it. I am definetly a 75% classic/conserative, 15% urban, 10% "romantic" - so I wouldn't feel comfortable too far out on a limb.

Don't go for the Holiday sweaters. You wear them once a year for three weeks, and they are ugly. Lulu2 is on the right track with the jewel colors, a fine smooth sweater, with a nice hem. Make sure your slacks have a straight, close fitting leg. Reminded me I have to get to the Ann Taylor Loft sale with my extra 20% off tomorrow.