Fashion

Taking Style Lessons From TSwift For The Holidays

by Katie Patton

It seems like only yesterday (because it almost literally was) that we were basking in the glory of an overindulgence of delicious dishes and long naps. Now that it is December, turkey time is over, the holiday season is full-speed ahead and a fabulously full social calendar awaits us! Personally, there is very little I love more than Christmas and the corresponding festivities, but topping the list of things I obsess over (almost) as much as the holiday season are party attire and Taylor Swift. So, what better way to usher in the most wonderful time of year than to break down outfit inspiration for all of the seasonal events that lie ahead from the reigning queen of, well, everything?

Taylor Swift's style game as of late is undeniable. She is the star of her very own fashion-evolution-heard-round-the-world and has graced numerous magazine covers, each with headlines that allude to her all-encompassing power. Most importantly, all signs point to the fact that, with Taylor Swift as our seasonal spirit animal, dressing to impress during the holidays will be easier than becoming her new BFF. So before we head out the door, let's ask ourselves, "What would Taylor wear?"

To the work party

Make your co-workers' heads turn at this year's office party with a plaid skirt and thick black tights. If you keep things neutral up top with a fitted black shirt, you can wear a bold, contrast shoe and finish it off with a pop-color bag. Feeling super festive? Trade out Swift's yellow slip-ons for a bright red or emerald green pair and you'll be the belle of the White Elephant exchange ball.

To the holiday soiree

Holiday parties are meant to be fun, so dressing up for one should be too! Traditional prints in surprising silhouettes, like Swift's buffalo plaid mini, paired with unexpected items (enter striped tights and turtlenecks with lace-like detailing) are a recipe for festive fashion with a twist.

If it weren't for red and green, glitter would easily be the most important color of the holiday season. Shine bright like a 5th Avenue diamond in a sparkly skirt and you'll catch everyone's eye, just like Swift did in her envy-enducing, rainbow Marco De Vincenzo pleated skirt during her 1989 album release tour.

Taylor Swift is currently killing the two-piece game with a clear obsession that centers around the skirt/crop top combo (don't expect to see her belly button though.) She rocked them all summer long and is proving we don't have to retire our barely-there midriffs when the temperature drops. Her black jaquard below-the-knee skirt and tiny top could easily bring out your inner bombshell this holiday, especially when paired with ruby red stilettos.

To lunch with the ladies

Denim in the most perfect shade of green, a seasonally colored plaid poncho, chunky knit scarf and chic yet casual cordovan (which I have now realized is the perfect shade of leather for the season) ankle boots. This one outfit, or any variation thereof, is the only one you need for lunches with the ladies, ice skating adventures, tree-lighting festivities or shopping around town. The noted combination leaves you looking effortlessly festive for your many holiday day-dates.

To the night before Christmas

Bedazzled emerald pretty much sums up the holiday season aesthetic. Any dress that resembles the Jenny Packham number Swift recently wore to the BBC 1 Radio Teen Choice Awards is the only one you need for a fancy Christmas Eve celebration. It pairs perfectly with gold shoes and accessories and can also be worn with black tights, in case you are celebrating the holidays in a place where you won't brave bare legs for months to come.

If Christmas Eve doesn't require a full party dress in the house you hang your Santa hat, try a shirt dress over tights with casually cute heels. A pretty burgundy plaid that is oh, so right for the season proves we can be festive without all the fuss, like Swift while on a stroll with best friend about town, Karlie Kloss.

To Christmas Day

There are pretty much only two rules for Christmas day attire. The first is that your clothing must fall into the category of “jammies.” The second being that your jammies must match a best friend or member of your family. Bonus points if your Christmas jammies are a onesie. If you didn't think Taylor Swift was going to inspire matching holiday loungewear, you are crazier than our "Blank Space" spirit animal.

What's that you say? You can't stay in your pajamas all day? Well, if you actually have to leave the house on Christmas, don't let anyone insist you dress up. You have been fancy all month and deserve to rock a reindeer sweater to finish out the season. Seriously, don’t knock the ugly sweater. If Taylor Swift can do it, so can you. Just try to air on the side of cute and kitschy.

To a ROCKIN' NEW YEAR’S EVE

For the last night of the year, let’s take style inspiration from Miss Swift in "Blank Space," shall we? After all, the music video was essentially a high-fashion runway show featuring mutliple drool-worthy dresses. If you have big plans and want to send out 2014 in a major way, track down a dress that pays homage to this Oscar de la Renta number. Nothing says "Happy New Year!" like all over metallic bows.

Tea length chiffon isn't for everyone. Also, some countdowns to the new year may call for something a little more understated. A black jumpsuit with a blazer makes for on-point end of the year style that is versatile and perfect for any party. Throw on some glitzy jewels and you're ready for a rockin' eve.

If you are less bow and more bombshell, seek out a dress that resembles the long-sleeve, sequin floral mini that Swift rocked on the pink carpet of the 2013 Victoria's Secret Fashion Show. In retrospect, this may have been the start of her much talked about style evolution, so taking inspiration from this Zuhair Murad number could be a good omen for fabulous fashion in 2015.

No matter what you decide to wear this season, if you are channeling Taylor Swift for the holiday, never forget your red lipstick. Also, have fun! Eat, drink and be merry! You know Taylor Swift will.

Happy Holidays and Happy Party Hopping!

Images: Getty; Twitter; Pinterest/Abigail Lundgren