THE HOLIDAYS ARE UPON US!!

TIME TO BREAK OUT THE COCKTAIL ATTIRE.

So many parties and nothing to wear? No worries, we've got you covered. Here are some of our faves for the annual holiday part(ies) you will be attending. Remember, cocktail doesn't always mean dress. Have some fun with different looks and pour yourself another hot toddy... extra scotch. This season's holiday wear is going to require serious restraint because you're going to want to buy everything. There are so many options and none too limited. Dress like you're going to a ball in an opulent maxi dress and bejeweled heels (or military boots to dress it down) or wear a mini, some fur and a killer wedged bootie... or, funk it up in this season's hyperactive selection of pants, straight, wide as a bell, sequined or slouched and a tuxedo shirt appliqued with lace. You'll look so unbelievable, you'll be caroling the whole way home.

Preen, Winter 2011 Runway

My wheels started turning after a night at the Crocker Art Museum's Annual Ball. Sure, it was technically a black-tie event with many dressed in the quintessential uniform of such an occasion, but there were a good handful of risk-takers there that night. Many, rather blatantly, decided to take it to that next level. Pause for a clap, clap. The night inspired me to take not only my personal wardrobe, but that of my clients' to the next level this holiday season. My all-time favorite gown of the night came from an older, rather sophisticated woman clad in green and a tuft of pink taffeta rosettes. She was glowing and I told her so and she replied, "Thank you, sweetheart. It's vintage." Of course. Imagine this dress in a mini? I know!!

Green and Pink Taffeta Gown, Vintage;
Photo Compliments of Drew Altizer Photography

Mary in Stella McCartney Black Strapless Organza Dress at the Crocker Ball -

Perfect for cocktail hour or a ball, you choose.

Back of the Stella Dress, Notice the Pleating and the Asymmetrical Skirt
Buy HERE

Marc Jacobs Yellow Crushed Velvet Gown (Spotted and Snapped on my Iphone: Barney's LA) -
To die for with a fur and some pearls.

Nanette Lepore  Velvet Gown, Winter 2011 Runway

Alberta Ferretti Fall/Winter 2011 -
Amazing with booties, as shown.

Givenchy LWD -
SO HOT this Holiday Season. Try going nautical with a red jacket. Love.

ASHISH Sequined Silk Pants, $1,100 buy HERE -
I so wanted to sport a women's tuxedo to the Ball. My husband nixed it.

Lanvin Leopard Tshirt Dress, $925 buy HERE -
I will own this.

JCrew's Origami Sheath Dress, $198 (JCrew has a collection of inexpensive, simple cocktail dresses that can be embellished with vintage brooches or amazing accessories) -
 Love the fingerless gloves here.

Valentino Tuxedo Lace Blouse with High-Waisted Skirt -
So smart and sexy at the same time.

Alice and Olivia Peplum Stretch Jersey Dress, $495 buy HERE -
Perfectly blended leather asymmetrical mini.

Christopher Kane, $3,029 buy at Luisaviaroma

This holiday season, be bold and fierce and different. Throw on some lace or leather gloves or an arm band. Create a conflict of interest between your sweet floral print and your bad to the bone 5-inch, lace-up boots. Throw in a hand muff in leopard or a silk scarf with skulls ala Alexander McQueen. There are just too many accessories not to include them in your ensemble. Show them how it's done and we promise, we will notice.

- sister