StyleUnited

Macys.com

It’s the holiday season and you need the perfect dress to fit your joyous occasion du jour, whether it is an awkward office party; a jolly family get-together or an elegant night out. What you don’t want: Something so trendy you’ll get laughed at when looking back on through holiday pictures a year later.

That’s why we recommend sticking to the tried, tested and true holiday dress must-haves. But it is also a great time to take some risks that play up your curvy figure. Consider this your guide to finding the perfect plus- size holiday dress.
 
Fabrics of the Season

The watchword of the season is festive, so don’t be afraid to celebrate with fabrics that say “huzzah!” Velvet and its funky sister crushed velvet make for lovely mini dresses and maxi skirts. If you’re bold enough to go for shine, consider pleated satin. An A-line dress with a full, pleated skirt will be a big hit on the dance floor. Around the holiday season you can even get away with a skirt or wrap in a rich brocade fabric. Live a little and move away from safe jerseys and polyester.

Crank up the Holidazzle

Is there a better time to wear sequins? We must say an emphatic no. Holiday parties and sequined dresses go together like a flute of champagne and your lovely, manicured hand. Which is to say, perfectly. When it comes to rocking a sequined look, less can be more. So go for a mini dress, or rock an LBD with a sequined cardigan. You can double your holiday pleasure by going for sequins in jewel tones – sizzling hot pink, bodacious red, or an attention-grabbing green are all timely, apropos, and fun. (But think twice about going in a very literal, red-and-green combination outfit.)

Shapely and Seasonal

When it comes to trying and buying a holiday dress, first consider the cut. Tall and full-figured? Consider a fabulous, floor-length maxi dress. Petite and plus-sized? A short and sexy ruched or convertible wrap dress could give your curves the va-va-voom you need for the holiday cocktail party circuit. In chillier climates your perfect holiday dress will most likely have sleeves, in which case you might want to keep your eyes peeled for a sweater dress with a sweetheart necklace – the better with which to show off a statement necklace.

Play up Your Assets

It’s the holidays. Live a little. Take a fashion risk. If that means that you typically stay away from color, go to a big department store with a great plus-size department — like Macy’s or Nordstrom, and try on the brightest frocks you see. Color can work to lift your mood and improve the happiness of those around you, and it isn’t for the faint of heart. Got a fabulous derriere and hips to spare? Maybe try playing up your assets with a flirty tiered dress. Want to play up your amazing cleavage? Rock a scoop-necked dress and wear a necklace that ends at the collarbone to attract subtle attention.

We encourage you to celebrate your curves, play up your best assets, try something new and don’t be afraid to break the traditional rules. Worst case scenario, blame it on the eggnog.