Got a holiday party coming up? Do you know what you are wearing yet? You might be last minute fashionistas like Leah and I, but these looks will have you dressing like you picked your outfit waaaaay in advance.
Meet Damien and Lisa Wong-Ken! These are dear friends of mine who happen to be professional stylists. Lucky me, right? They have styled for big events such as the Dove Awards, AMAs, Grammys and Billboard Awards. They have been faithful texters when my husband or I are having a fashion crisis. Bless them!
We asked each of them to put together a look for you and the special guy in your life so that when you hit the holiday parties, you will do it in style and with confidence.
Lisa says….
I went for a matching top and bottom. It’s the look of a dress without being one. This
gives you the opportunity to get different sizes to fit your unique body shape. You can
also wear each piece as a separate later on. Pair the top with your favorite denim and the bottom
with a white T-shirt!
Booties are a must have! These are sleek and have a great texture. I’m all about pieces
being able to transition into different looks. I love statement jewelry!! This ring has such an interesting look and unconventional shape! Being that it’s winter, opaque tights add the right amount of warmth. These tights go the extra mile by slimming you down. It’s the perfect companion to a pencil skirt.
The front and back look of these studs are perfect for any hair do. With the top and bottom of the outfit
being all over lace, this is just the right amount of subtlety.
Statement coats are really big this year, and I love it. If you are going to cover up your
amazing outfit do it with a great topper. This amazing burgundy wrapper the perfect
contrast with the gold. Last, but not least….. the clutch. When I’m going dancing I like to carry a cross body bag. I hate leaving my purse, and a strapless clutch becomes cumbersome. I love the 3D effect of
the sequins and that it’s multi-colored.
MEN!!!! Take note. I know for my husband, dressing up is an intimidating thing because when it comes to hems, layers, accessories, etc., there are “rules” that he is just unaware of, and it can be overwhelming. Damien gives such great tips on every little detail you need to pull off your look with style.
Damien says….
Slim cuts, layers, patterns, and colors are the go-to looks for the season, and are always the
most versatile during the cooler (and sometimes colder) weather – no matter where you
are in the country.
Unless it is a formal event that you are attending (in which case a dark suit is always
appropriate), go with a dark blue denim that is tailored and slimming. Even if you’re a
“big boy”, don’t shy away from slim cut jeans! If they are hemmed correctly, they will
make anyone look a few pounds lighter. A good tailor will know exactly how to give you the
perfect amount of “break in the leg”.
Next, go for a mid-to-dark grey or black unconstructed sport jacket that fits right. This
simply means that there is little to no padding in the shoulders, and sometimes no lining.
The seam should land at the top of the ball of your shoulder. This will make it
look slimmer and more flattering. The sleeves should be
shortened to about a half of an inch just above your first thumb knuckle (the bump by your
wrist). It may seem short, but it’s right, and will add a touch of style to the end image as
you show a little shirt cuff.
Shirts, ties, and pocket squares are preferences. Patterns are always great so don’t be
afraid of mixing them with colors. A good rule of thumb as you start off is to have a
printed shirt (let’s say a fine check) paired with a solid tie of a contrasting color
(example: a blue and white fine check, with lighter/darker blue, a red, or yellow tie). The
tie should be about 2-3 inches at its widest point, tied in a 4-in-hand knot. When tied,
the tip should land at the very top of your belt (Please! Wear a belt!!) Cotton pocket
squares are not for everyone, but they do break up a huge piece of blank canvas, and are a
great accessory that doesn’t over do it. If anything, just use a plain white cotton
handkerchief and fold it into a square, exposing only a sliver. No matter the
shirt and tie, it’s a perfect compliment.
Socks and shoes are very personal items. Socks can be as unique as you are, and shoes
should always be clean. For this particular look, I would go for a basic oxford.
Brown or black would look great. Matching a belt is not necessary either, as long as it’s “close enough”.
This look may not be your forte, but believe me, when people compliment you on how
you look, you’ll feel more comfortable and confident than ever!
EXTRA: Damien & Lisa’s roster of clients includes:
TobyMac, Newsboys, Chris Tomlin, Brandon Heath, Capital Kings, Ryan Stevenson, Run Kid Run
Finding Favor, B. Reith, Brit Nicole, Nicole C. Mullen, Mandisa, Journey’s Group (Journeys, SHI)
