Playing Dress Up for the New Year

Whether you're staying in with your husband, having a dinner party with friends or hitting up the hottest gala in the city, you should always ring in the new year with some added style to set the tone for the year to come.

Casual New Year. If you're planning a casual evening, try pairing some brightly colored pants with a sparkly top. You'll be comfy yet festive.

(1) Dark Star Sequin Popover Top from J. Crew (2) Red Paige Denim Legging Pants (3) Sequin Isabel Sweatshirt from J. Crew (4) Blue Velvet Flared Pants from Bloomingdale's

New Year Dinner Party. Play dress up in a bold skirt or flowy dress for your New Years dinner party for a fun, but not too over-the-top, look.

(1) Fringed Lace Top from Anthropologie (2) Metallic Skirt from TopShop (3) Vintage Inspired Dress from Mango

Cocktail Party. The mini skirts and sequins on these dresses make them perfect for New Years and the long sleeves make them practical for a cold December night. Pair them up with tights and booties and a fur topper to keep extra warm.

(1) Aiden Mattox Long Sleeve Sequin Dress (2) Tadashi Shoji Sequin Ombre Dress

Black Tie New Year. The ultimate opportunity for dress up. If you're attending a black tie gala for new years, the sky's the limit. Go for sparkle, shine, bold colors and embellishments in a long number paired with high heels

(1) Aiden Mattox Long Sleeve Sequin Gown (2) Aiden Mattox Beaded Halter Gown

Shopping for Winter Coats

I recently talked about how I like to add at least one new pair of boots to my shoe wardrobe each season and I feel the same way about coats. During the winter months, I spend so much time in coats that I like to have options so I don't feel like I'm wearing the same thing every day. But contrary to how I feel about boots, I don't necessarily love coats. They often feel kind of boxy or boring and they hide my outfit! So, I'm always on the look out for interesting, colorful and fun coats. Here are a few of my favorite styles this winter.

1. Stand Collar: A stand collar is a fun, easy way to put a shot of today’s trends in your coat wardrobe. This coat will keep you stylish and snuggly. (pictured: Empire Coat from Mango)

2. Notch Collar: This classic coat is a smart stylish staple to keep in your coat wardrobe. To get a modern look, find this coat with unique details such as a ruffle notch collar, and you’ll be set for the winter. (pictured: Wool Maxi Coat from TopShop)

3. Classic Pea Coat: This coat is a great option for a casual weekend look. Keep your outfit simple and classic when wearing this coat to maintain its all-American look. (pictured: LL Bean Harvest Wool Pea Coat)

4. Cape: Capes and capelets were seen on all the runways for the winter. A coat this chic was made for a fashionista. You can wear it anywhere, from shopping with the girls to a chic party. (pictured: Hooded Cape from TopShop)

5. Faux Fur: Fur is back in full force, and can now be found in animal-friendly faux versions. Find a fur coat in a classic style, or a trendy one with unique details. When wearing a fur coat, keep your winter accessories fur-free. (pictured: Faux Fur Sleeve Wool Coat from TopShop)

6. Puffer Coat: Puffer coats are here to stay, and can now be found in bright attention-catching colors, with cute details, and in new styles. This coat with a contemporary take is great for having a fun day in the snow. (pictured: Relaxed Fit Anorak from Mango)