Tis the season for holiday parties. Whether a corporate event or a friend’s house party, it is the time to put your best foot, or shoe in this case, forward. This is a time of a year where we get to reconnect with family and friends and as they say “don we now our gay apparel!" This holiday season is seeing a few bold trends that will be sure to hit all the right notes this winter. 

Lace. When I was in Paris in June, every other mannequin was draped in lace. It’s not surprising that we’re now seeing lace as a major trend for the holidays. If you want to turn heads, go for a full lace dress in cream or black. To keep it more simple, look for a piece with lace trim or embellishment. As an accessory, the perfect lace gloves are a nice touch (Gigi Hadid rocked them at last week’s American Music Awards)

Kate Middleton in a white lace dress by Self Portrait on November 3 at a movie premiere.

Kate Middleton in a white lace dress by Self Portrait on November 3 at a movie premiere.

Reese Witherspoon Nov 29th at the DirecTV Now launch in NYC.

Reese Witherspoon Nov 29th at the DirecTV Now launch in NYC.

Red, Red Wine. Hard to go wrong with red for the holidays, but this year the trend tends to be deep wine inspired hues: Burgundy, Cabernet, Merlot. Men can pair a burgundy velvet bowtie to add a warm touch to a tuxedo or suit. Ladies can go for a full dress or just a piece or two. The richer the shade the better. Leave the bright red to Ol’ Saint Nick.

Felicity Jones in a wine-coloured Dior at the 23rd Annual Elle Women in Hollywood Event

Felicity Jones in a wine-coloured Dior at the 23rd Annual Elle Women in Hollywood Event

Emma Stone at the Kennedy Center in a dress by Prada, shoes by Jimmy Choo

Emma Stone at the Kennedy Center in a dress by Prada, shoes by Jimmy Choo

Black and White. Not so much a holiday trend as much as a current fashion trend. Classic black and white pairings are hitting the red carpet and will be sure to make a statement at any party. 

Keke Palmer stuns at the Glamour Women of the Year Awards on November 23, 2016.

Keke Palmer stuns at the Glamour Women of the Year Awards on November 23, 2016.

Supermodel Karlie Kloss in a lace Caroline Herrera dress in Madrid on Nov 15, 2016.

Supermodel Karlie Kloss in a lace Caroline Herrera dress in Madrid on Nov 15, 2016.

Gold. Another holiday favourite has been popping up everywhere. Stick to a classic silhouette and let the colour and shine do the talking. Save this outfit for when you really want to get some attention. 

Gigi Hadid at the CR Fashion Book Party in Paris

Gigi Hadid at the CR Fashion Book Party in Paris

Miranda Kerr's Reem Acra tulle dress at the Baby2Baby Gala

Miranda Kerr's Reem Acra tulle dress at the Baby2Baby Gala

These are a few ideas to give you inspiration to look your best this season. But no matter what you wear this season keep a few things in mind:

  1. It’s a Christmas party, keep it classy. Ladies—Mini dresses and plunging necklines aren’t appropriate for work events. Gentlemen– at the office party, don’t wear the same suit you wore all year long. Change it up with a cool sports coat and a bowtie. 
  2. Winter is cool, so keep it relaxed. Don’t be that person at the party that tries to outshine the Christmas tree. Keep it simple, cool and chic. Tinsel is not optional.
  3. Be realistic. The weather may not always be your friend this season so dress for the elements. Ladies–swap out your stilettos for a pair of killer boots and invest in a stylish wool coat that will actually keep you warm. Gents, go to your cobbler and get grips on your leather soled shoes. It’s hard to look stylish when you land on icy pavement. Accessorize your overcoat with a cashmere scarf and coloured leather gloves.