Excessorize Me

Mark Twain may have said that “clothes make the man,” but any clever kitten knows that accessories make the woman.  After all, judging from the parade of exotic plumes and precious sparklers spotted at fashionable fetes across the city, ’tis the season to sparkle and shine.

Ah December! That delicious time of year when excess is not only expected but also accessible to the masses–the sultry, smoky eye palettes, the high-watt window displays and the tantalizing treats piped to sweet perfection. It is certainly a maximalist’s dream come true–a dream that includes both sugar plum fairies dancing in one’s head and rock candy rings dancing on one’s hand.

With all of the festive frivolity kicking into haute gear, now is the time to strike that over-the-top balance of lavish loot – whether it be bags, beads or bows.  Lovelies take note: when it comes to accessorizing, the key word is excess.  Draw your style inspiration from film stars and First Ladies who wowed with their enviable mix of beauty and bijoux: Jackie O’s enamel Jean Schlumberger bangles, Liz Taylor’s statement necklaces and cuffs in Cleopatra, and Audrey Hepburn’s twinkling tiara in Breakfast at Tiffanys. Just remember, my darlings, the bon mots of Christian Dior: “It’s not money that makes you well-dressed, it’s understanding.”

What does excessorizing mean to you?

Chunky strands of costume jewelry layered around your neck?
A gob-stopper sized rhinestone ring passed down from your grandmother?
Stacks of exotic gold bangles collected from your travels?
A sexy panther hanging from a long, gold chain?
A pink feathered evening bag with an elegant bejeweled clasp?

Happy holidays to stylish snow angels everywhere!

Wishing you and yours a very FASHIONable new year.

Shown: Le Chateau dress, $90.

View a slideshow of Sarah’s picks for the best holiday trimmings.

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