It’s here! The season for holiday soirées is upon us, and with it the opportunity to trim our trees with ornaments and trim ourselves in festive frocks that are just perfect for this jolly time of year.

Today I’ve pulled together five lovely outfits from Anthropologie to offer you some inspiration for finding your own unique style as you step out for this party season.

The Dress: Goldleaf Cocktail Dress, The Earrings: Southbound Plume Earrings, The Handbag: Genji Deco Clutch, The Shoes: Sweetheart Vamp Pumps

The Dress: Paisley Scroll Dress, The Earrings: Polished Planes Earrings, The Handbag: Jewel In The Rough Pouch, The Shoes: Sheer Scallop Peep Toes

The Dress: Mirela Silk Dress, The Earrings: Brae Dew Drops, The Handbag: Sea Mosaic Clutch, The Shoes: Pointed Cutout Wedges

The Dress: Heian Sheath, The Earrings: Kretsa Chandeliers, The Belt: Frayed Grosgrain Belt, The Handbag: Eminonu Clutch, The Shoes: Hearted Wingtip Mary-Janes

Not content simply to play dress-up on paper, my friend Jenn and I decided to transform our recent tree-trimming party into what my English cousins call “a fancy dress party.” Here are two of our favourite Anthro frocks on two real-life friends who delight in the details of these gorgeous garments as much as we do in the details of the ornaments we placed on the tree.

PHOTO BY GABRIELA HANSEN

PHOTO BY GABRIELA HANSEN

As a girl with curves, I typically choose a fit-and-flare shape over a sheath dress in order to accentuate the positive while…well…not over-accentuating the especially curvy parts. But this Lasercut Sheath won my heart with its delightfully modern and feminine details. I just had to give it a try. The great news is that it also won over my girly hips with its charmingly subtle and stretchy side panels! I love the visually lengthening centre column of the delicate cream laser cut-outs contrasting the backdrop of subtle pin-dot black fabric. The knee length silhouette adds to this dress’ truly classic and elegant finesse. I have no doubt it will be a staple in my “occassions” wardrobe for years to come.

PHOTO BY GABRIELA HANSEN

PHOTO BY GABRIELA HANSEN

PHOTO BY GABRIELA HANSEN

I just love the way the warmth of this Goldleaf Cocktail Dress compliments Jenn’s creamy complexion and lovely red locks. The details are rather spectacular. The belt of this sequined dress looks like a laurel wreath of honour wrapping around her waist, and the Southbound Plume Earrings were truly made for this outfit.

PHOTO BY GABRIELA HANSEN

PHOTO BY GABRIELA HANSEN

With the weekend upon us, I’m sure many of you will be getting ready for your own social calendar of festive events. I have no doubt that {with Anthropologie‘s help}  we’ve solved your “what to wear” dilemna today! Wishing you the loveliest time of connecting and celebrating with friends and family at your holiday gatherings this year.

Many thanks to Anthropologie and to Gabriela Hansen for her photography.

xo
s.