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One of last year’s hottest fashion trends was none other than “Geek to chic.” And no matter how fashion forward we swear we are, retro looks keep popping up from high to low ends of fashion.

Fashionista Felicia’s Five Fashion Fixes for the Festive

By FELICIA C. HANEY

One of last year’s hottest fashion trends was none other than “Geek to chic.” And no matter how fashion forward we swear we are, retro looks keep popping up from high to low ends of fashion. So, no matter what you celebrate, this holiday season the FEWS is going to get you in “gear” for what to (and not to) wear for whatever party your planning, attending or crashing ;c)

With your heels in tow (and flats in your bag!), here a few essentials to turn heads this holiday season at any function from a friend’s house to potential client’s cocktail soiree, from watching the ball drop to having a ball when the music drops. Whatever the party calls for you’ll have all the essentials on call, posted and ready to go.

Geek Glasses:

Everyone from school-aged teenyboppers to middle-aged milfs have been seen wearing black framed, non-prescription specs. No longer just for poetry readings, they’ve continued to get snaps up as they’ve popped up everywhere, including the red carpet. Incorporate this look at the end of the year corporate social with your pinned up hair, pumps and party dress and you may have to pull a ruler out of your purse to ward off the bad boys who’ll mistake you for a naughty school teacher. For a fancier flair swap traditional black frames for tortoise shell or a punch of color. Careful not to go to Sally Jessie Raphael but add just a touch of your own personal style to a funky yet mature trend.
The Cardigan:

This constant comeback kid is a heavyweight in winter wear. It gives you just enough bulk to keep out the cold, but won’t leave you looking more stuffed than grandma’s turkey. For friendly hangouts that are more low key, adopt the varsity feel with a letterman look that brands your (or your beau’s) first initial. This is guaranteed to score you some points! For classier occasions, switch with something more girly and grown-up like a cashmere, angora or mohair material. Classic colors of this model will never go out of style and can always be revisited no matter how far back on your closet rack they get pushed. Pair them with a fuzzy or wool tam, blinged out hair accessories and even your geek glasses and you’re well on your way to looking, fun and flirty with a touch of utter sophistication.

Animal Instincts:

Everything from jewelry to dresses, sweaters to shoe-boots are boasting animal inspired prints. A little black party dress decked out with some jungle-themed jewelry, six-inch high booties or scarf-inspired neckwear will have you rockin’ the right ratio of sophistication to closet catwoman, arrrrrr! Even your cardigan can serve double duty in this department. Throw a leopard or zebra print cardi atop a sleeveless dress or use it to jazz up your jeans and your ready to party the night away. Be careful not to go overboard with mixing patterns or having the entire party run away from you for mistaking you as a full-blown rabid cheetah. Remember, a good lady leopard changes up her spots. The key is to be low-key when on the prowl, not left looking like the cat lady whose dishes are left unscathed at the pot luck.

Heavy Metal:

Metallics are always holiday hotties. Whether you’re trimmed in silver, gold, bronze or pewter, shimmery and shiny is sure to be captured by anyone in eyeshot. An alternative to the six-inch high and rising bootie that may look gorge while shaking your booty on the dance floor, but will leave a corn the size of a gargoyle on your pinky toe is a pair of patent metallic flats. Low heels will ensure you’re still smiling and not wincing at the end of the night. And, if you’re bold enough to pull it off, party in a pair of UGG Australia’s new Jimmy Choo merger line equipped with silver and gold studded styles; or the Classic Sparkles in black, gold or silver. Hey, if they’re good enough to make Oprah’s “Favorite Things” list, they’re sure to be New Year’s night must haves. Trust me, your feet will thank you! Another metallic must-have is nail polish. A perfect way to accent those excessive accessories, especially the classic cocktail ring or this year’s fan favorite, the rock candy necklace.

Lip Service:

red-lips

The retro ruby red-stained lip is red hot this season. It will definitely have potential suitors or boyfriends/husbands who never pay attention walking in reverse (and possibly at attention!) to get another glimpse of you in your lively new look. This touch of color on your pout will play up an otherwise overlooked plain outfit or boring hair day. A fun way to make a quick change by being experimental without going over the top. Done correctly, they’ll look more succulent than grandma’s homemade cranberry sauce. Be careful of matching the right red with your skin tone. Every red isn’t for everyone. We want you to be memorable by looking kissable, not like you’ve been dipping in the Kool-Aid.