Sparkling strings of Christmas lights, a pure white snow blanketing the earth and falling from the sky, reflections of city traffic and street lights on the wet streets – it’s the holiday season. Jazz and vintage albums replace the commercial sounds in the stores, and a sense of rush and overwhelming romanticism is palpable within every moment. It’s no wonder we look forward to the holiday season, even with the flood of tasks and mile-long to-do’s. It’s a time of parties and play and general Christmas cheer. And what could be more delightful than parading around in gorgeous holiday garb with your best friends and loved ones all within reach?

But no time to think, no time to plan, and we all want to look fab! Fret not my loves. Here’s a guide to effortless luxury holiday style in collaboration with the esteemed Anne Fontaine, to rescue your wardrobe and let you spend that extra time on another bottle of bubbly with your bests.

1: Choice high quality pieces

The holidays are a time to splurge, and what would Christmas be without a few gifts to yourself? If you want to look as fabulous as you feel, stick with high quality luxury essentials that you won’t regret after the holidays have past. Holiday parties are the perfect venue to debut the newest additions to your capsule wardrobe. Plan to stun with first-time-wear key pieces that you’ll be able to integrate into your wardrobe again later in the season.

A statement luxury style blouse with some feminine details like lace or ruffles is just the right amount of festive for Christmas parties with some bold, glittering accessories or ornamental footwear. After the holidays, you can easily dress it down with a blazer and a basic jean for day-to-night wear.

This piece from Anne Fontaine has statement sleeves (an iconic trend of the year) that make it festive for holiday parties and events. I’ve paired them with an exaggerated pearl loafer with a heel, for just the right amount of opulent essence. Anne Fontaine’s holiday collection has several such statement blouses that will not only get you through the holiday season, they’ll also turn into capsule essentials that you’ll be able to wear year round. I have a fitted basic blouse from Anne Fontaine from the last year that continues to be my go-to grab for tailored wear. Paired with jeweled cuff-links it’s also an essential that stands well on its own.

2: Stick with the classics

The last thing you want is a family photo lasting decades on the mantel with your biggest fashion faux pas. Stick with the classics. Iconic classic style is best executed by fashion majors. Now is the time to rely on your luxury brand go-to’s for something you can count on to get you through the holidays in effortless style. An iconic blouse with special details like the one above is a no-fail solution to classic style.

If red is out of your comfort zone, don’t reach for it just because it’s the holidays. Stay true to yourself, and remember that the sparkle in your eyes is all you need for capturing the essence of the season and emanating your light with every glance. Throw in the deep glow that comes from being surrounded by love and happiness and it’s the only accessory you’ll need.

3: A gown is always a good idea

What is more classic than a little black dress? Or better yet, a big one. The holidays are one time of the year it’s absolutely acceptable to choose elegance above all. If you’ve been dying to dress a bit more divine than your weekday style, take advantage and spoil yourself in layers of decadence. A classic gown is a great grab for formal Christmas parties and evening cocktail occasions. The Ritz doesn’t stand a chance against you in all of your glamour.

This evening gown by Anne Fontaine is a masterpiece of art. Designed as a two-piece slip and sheath, the outmost layer is deliciously translucent, giving it an ethereal element that’s as magical as the holidays. The fabric is light and has a faintly striped texture embellished with small white flowers in a scattered pattern. Walking through the capitol in Nashville, TN, I felt like an absolute queen.

4: Choose comfortable footwear

No matter how you decide flaunt your luxury holiday style, don’t forget to plan ahead and choose comfortable, elegant footwear. Cocktail parties and jaunts around the city mean a lot of time on your feet. Opt for a high-fashion sneaker like this pair, or choose a sophisticated heel that will get you through from brunch to late-night rendezvous. Save the stilettos for your 1-3 hour adventures.

Looking for more holiday outfit ideas? I’ve partnered with Anne Fontaine to share my personal gift guide where you’ll find exclusive luxury fashion items that are perfect for checking off your shopping list, or for satisfying your own wish list. The collection feature a luxurious blend of darkly romantic pieces and classic essentials that are designed as the ideal selections for a capsule luxury wardrobe. You can also check out my favorites accessories from the reveal of Anne Fontaine’s holiday accessory guide. Check back soon for the deets.

UPDATE: You can check out our NEW holiday gift guide here!

In accordance with the FTC regulations for Influencers, this is a sponsored post in collaboration with Anne Fontaine. All thoughts, comments and musings are made of my own opinion and honest, personal experience with the products reviewed or mentioned. I hope you’ve found this post informational and inspiring!