Holiday fashion: Shimmer is in for 2012 party season

Make it your season to be seen. Time to shimmer and shine, glitter and glow in this season's hottest holiday looks.

"Dresses are really in," says Eileen Shanon, buyer and stylist for Unpredictable, a contemporary women's boutique at Foothill Village. Holiday dresses are being worn short and sexy, but there are also classy and sassy knee-length styles, adds Laurie Johnson, owner of Unpredictable.

Subtle bling and sequins add flash, along with ruched tops and knits, while lace is also an important holiday look, ranging from lace jackets and dresses to pants. Animal prints are always in, and skinny pants are still the rage.

Go glam • For black-tie events, old is new this season, such as evening gowns with an old Hollywood look, and classic silhouettes accented with timeless jewelry pieces such as pearls and diamonds. Topped off with a faux fur jacket or wrap, the look conveys sophistication and elegance. For a more contemporary spin, Johnson suggests a wide-legged flowy romper rather than a floor-length gown.

Embellish • Whether a little or a lot, sequins, studs and metallics are great for holiday looks. "Big jeweled earrings and tons of bangles, I've seen it everywhere," Shanon said. For an understated look, try a simple long pendant with earrings; otherwise a big statement necklace and oversized cocktail ring will rock any outfit.

Cozy up • Sweater dresses and sweaters are another holiday trend. Casual get-togethers call for skinny jeans with big cozy sweaters, and Shanon recommends a bright-colored cashmere cowl over leather or lace pants. Knits can be comfy and relaxed to wear, yet can appear dressed up with loads of jewelry, a pair of big crystal earrings and stacks of bangles. Sweaters also take on a different look when cinched at the waist or hips with a metallic or rhinestone belt.

Make a statement • Statement jackets are another on-trend look, including military or quilted styles. Other styles to consider include a velvet tuxedo blazer or sequin bolero, Shanon said. Layer up with studded leather, denim or a colored faux fur for extra warmth — and glamour with an edge.

Bold and soft colors • Black is always in style, but when combined with red, the look can appear intense and bold. Accent black-and-white ensembles with a ruby-red belt, scarlet suede boots or a rosy ruched turtleneck. The softer side of the season is filled with pastels, such as dusty pinks, white and cream. While feminine and romantic, these colors aren't seen as commonly in winter wear, but can create immediate impact.

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Party clothes

Thanks to Eileen Shanon, buyer and stylist, and Laurie Johnson, owner of Unpredictable boutique, 1330 Foothill Dr., Salt Lake City; 801-906-0454. All of the clothing and accessories in this story were selected from the Foothill Village clothing store.