What I'd wear...for a (formal) holiday party

It's that time of year again!  Cheer, warm cider, and laughing children fill the season.  Holiday parties also help ensure that the spirit of joy and too much awesome-going-to-regret-it-in-the-morning food will be happily consumed.

I'm getting pretty excited about our trip to Asia.  It will be my first time spending the holidays in a warm climate.  But if I can break out skirts and sandals, I can definitely deal.


So what will you wear to your holiday party (parties)?
It all begins with the dress of course.  Now if you wanted to be really different how cool would it be to have a custom made dress from a vintage pattern (I'd probably do a black and cream combo)?   Ladies in LA, I bet Lindsey could work some wonders.  I've seen her custom dresses - um awesome.  I need to be friends with more couturiers and tailors.

Then of course the accessories.  While gloves are optional (I mean what if this is to a nice family dinner after all, kids are totally pouring gravy all over the gloves), jewelry is key.

Hello J. Crew as reintroduced to me by fab Kelly.
First this gold and black rhinestone necklace.  Um wow.

A matching bracelet with gorgeous hand-cut stones.

 

Of course some dark stone earrings.

Finally some cute shoes a la Ann Taylor - oh the ruffles!  I'd get them in silver.  Thanks for the recommendation Tiffany!

Finally of course a cute clutch like this one from Nordstrom.

 

What would you wear to a formal holiday party?

French inspired decor for your wedding reception and home

In honor of Bastille Day, Bonne fête!

I do have a special place in my heart for things French after living there for a bit last year (though I don't miss trying to buy groceries on Sundays - they were only open for 3 hours in the morning!). Mr. Chic 'n Cheap also proposed to me in France by scheming with my roommate to get me onto the Pont des Artes at a specific time.
More another time if you care to hear. :)

I lived in two different houses. Both places were located in villages surrounded by these lovely forests. Seriously, this spot was 1 km from my house and there were horse stables nearby. The fall was gorgeous there.Since we were in the land of great fromage, we frequently had brie or parmasean, baguettes, prosciutto, and Carrefour brand mustard (the best honey mustard and only 1 euro!) in the house. I do miss French baguettes...
I now regret not having browsed more French flea markets for lovely vintage items. I would recommend bringing French speaking friends of course if you decide to visit markets.
I would not be one of them, but I can provide great commentary.

I'm glad I have my alencon lace gown and veil. I would have loved to bring back fabrics and housewares as well.

How nice that I discovered this lovely retailer today - Paris Hotel Boutique

Perhaps your family's wedding pictures could grace this beautiful engraved platter, $145

Or you could place your rings in this Nimes casket box, $55How about wearing this antique silver and rose gold award fob with pearls for $260? This would be lovely with many a dress...
I don't consider it wedding related purchases if you can use it after the wedding right?