Festive Red for Holiday Glam

I know I shared glam accents earlier this month, but this topic bears repeating because the holidays are coming and it's the time of year when I get the most panicked emails asking for tips on last-minute holiday glam looks.  How can I dress up my work outfit for a holiday party? Where can I find a formal dress for TONIGHT? How can I make what I already own look festive? I'm trying to offer suggestions early enough so you don't have to do frantic last-minute shopping, which always ends up in retail regret.  Red is a color that feels festive this time of year, but doesn't feel like holiday during other seasons.  This means such pieces can be worn now, for Valentine's Day, for your anniversary, a friend's bachelorette, as accents for an evening wedding (no you shouldn't wear red but red accents are okay with a different colored outfit), and even with cheery brights and pastels like coral, pink, and turquoise, can work beyond winter.

1. Cozy glam.  I love a faux fur coat for adding drama to an otherwise simple look, or being the perfect topper for all your dressy outfits.  
2. Like Christmas decorations for your ears.  With earrings like this, you don't need any other jewelry to finish your ensemble.  Even better, they're on sale for less than $15!
3. Carry the essentials in a chic manner.  Croco has texture which adds interest without competing.  The shiny finish looks dressier, and this red will look great for the holidays and beyond (though it's also available in black).  This clutch will become one of the hardest working bags in your wardrobe. 
4. Paint the town red.  With such fabulous shoes, you can make even your black work dress cocktail ready.  Available in three other colors too, I like the double toe strap which corrals the pinky toe and is more comfortable when walking.
5. A perfect touch of sparkle.  So delicate, so simple, and exactly what you need to add a touch of color and festivity to your v-neck sweater or an off the shoulder dress. Seven different colors to choose from.
6. Elegance with a walkable heel height.  Not only is it a very comfortable heel height, but it gets rave reviews from previous customers.  While I love the red patent, this shoe comes in nine other colors.
7. The perfect party pants.  A rich red will work for the office with a nice sweater or blouse, and become instant glam with a cashmere sweater, sparkly tee, or satin blouse. Beautiful drape and great customer reviews too.  These pants are only in plus sizes; here is a similar pant in sizes 00-28.
8. The perfect red pout.  This lipstick has been my favorite for years.  Blake's Red is a bit more of a blue-red while Eva's Red is more warm.  Not too matte but stays on all night long.
9. A formal touch of flair.  A sparkly minaudiere style bag is a classic formal clutch that will always look chic. This one is less than $20, gets good reviews, and has an optional chain strap so you can keep your hands free.
10. Better than an ugly Christmas sweater.  A red cashmere turtleneck looks great under a suit, with your favorite jeans, tucked into a ball skirt or a sequined pencil skirt, or styled with velvet or silk party pants.  It's festive luxury in regular, petite, and tall sizes.  Here is the link for the same sweater in plus sizes.
11. Waist not, want not. Replace your dress' self-belt or even wear it with jeans; a belt like this will glam up any look and give a festive vibe.  Belts like these end up being worn year after year. Sizes XS-XL
12. A seasonal statement.  The bow blouse is a hot trend this season, but not a trend that will look passe come next year.  Pair with velvet or silk trousers or even your favorite jeans.  Even better, this blouse is machine washable!

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