Let Your Hair Down

The votes are in—we’re tired of having to burn our hair for a few hours of smoothness, permitting the weather is co-operating.  Instead of trying to achieve a trendy, straight hair look, why not embrace what you naturally have?  Whether it’s a slight wave or a super curly do, there are many ways to make your hair look fabulous during the holidays and the whole year through.  It’s never stylish to damage your hair.  Embrace your volume!  Bigger is better when it comes to your locks.  Besides, wearing your hair naturally shows confidence, which speaks volumes of ultimate style.  Get rid of your flat iron, stop the hair damage and if you’re feeling bold, revive a disappearing breed—go red!  Scientists and sociologists agree, redheads are a dwindling demographic and while you may not be able to have the real thing, you can still make a big red statement.  Not to mention, it’s the most popular colour of the holiday season.

Layer

Canadian winters are no place for bare legs, bare arms or bare necks.  Get a pair of stockings; they dress up any outfit and with so many styles to choose from, you are sure to find one just right for your look.  Protect bare arms with a sweater shawl in a cotton/cashmere blend.  It’s thin enough to fit under coats and will keep you warm.  And what should be your favourite winter warm accessory?  Scarves!  They instantly create a feeling of comfort in so many shades, fabrics and styles that you’ll have trouble choosing.  Opt for a bright, chunky knit.  It doesn’t have to match the rest of your outfit.

Sparkle

Sparkle from head to toe!  But this look should be nothing like a disco ball.  Sparkle should be subtle.  Try it on your feet.  Wearing a low heeled shoe embellished with sparkle will be comfortable enough to wear well into the night, but also right on trend.  When light reflects off of them, they look as if they’re dancing!  Of course, jewellery is always a great way to sparkle.  Try big costume pieces.  Sparkle is also easy to achieve in your makeup.  If you wear black eyeliner, try one with a bit of silver in it.

House Party

Avoid clubs, supper clubs, lounges and halls.  It doesn’t matter what they call them, in the end, they all spell out one thing:  holiday headache.  Instead of spending $100 on a plate of chewy chicken and a glass of champagne, why not turn your house into a comfortable event space?  At home $100 can go a long way.  You can cover bottles of champagne, buy ingredients for simple hor d’oeuvres and grab party favours from the dollar store.  If you’re inviting close friends, suggest a potluck or a BYOB concept.  Be the party host this year.  Your friends will thank you.