Holiday Style: Playful, Personal, Powerful

TRENDSPOTTING | by ALEXANDRA SMITH

FEATHERS AND FEDORAS AND JEWELRY, OH MY! Seems we’re finally emerging from the ‘recessionista’ edict that less is more and humbler is better.

© FASHIONIN.LA.COM

That’s not to say that bling is back. Instead, women are finding a happy medium that says, “I put a lot of thought ― but not cash ― into this”. While the be-logo’ed “it bag” remains nowhere to be seen, there’s been a definite up-tick in funky boots, one-of-a-kind hats and statement jewelry. See also: Anna Sheffield’s double take-worthy Target jewelry as well as these Rihanna/Madonna-inspired looks. Neither scream “masstige”; instead, they’re interesting collections that just happen to be affordable.

As the holiday season approaches and party invites begin trickling in, watch for women to amp up with bold jewelry, chunky heels and belts, belts, belts. Watch, too, for last-century revivals, particularly from the boxy-shouldered 80s, the “Mad Men”-era ’60s, the tailored, feminine ’30s and even a hint of turn-of-the-century Victorian (see: lace-up boots).

Whatever the era, co-opting vintage will be less a matter of wholesale adoption than selective integration. So last year’s black sheath may make an encore appearance ― this time, paired with deco jewels and faux-fur stole. The bottom line? Women are less concerned with having something everyone wants than with having a look no one else could construct.