Seasonal Sparkle

'Tis the season for holiday parties, which brings the inevitable and oh-so-frustrating question of what to wear.

This has been a topic of particular discussion around my house as of late, as my aunt and uncle were off last night to attend the White House Christmas Ball. If you think trying to decide what to wear to the company Christmas party is tricky, imagine what trying to decide what to wear to the President's Christmas party might be like.

(For inquiring minds, my aunt went with a lovely, full-skirted black satin dress, accented with sparkling rhinestone accessories. She looked perfect.)

For those of you wardrobe planning for a slightly less formal event (and my guess is that would be all of us), might I suggest some favorite new finds.

I am totally loving this sequined jacket from one of my all-time favorite online retailers, ModCloth.




This capelet can swing in any direction you need it to. Pair it with a simple white tank and skinny black jeans and heels for a casual night of Christmas cocktails, or put it on with a slinky pencil skirt and lace tights or over a Little Black Dress for a dressier look.

Other glittering looks include this black sequined top and or this more daring, shimmering cropped tank.





Another look I am really loving this holiday season is the winterizing of summer wear for a breezy, cold weather look. Take this outfit from Anthropologie, for example.




Just add dark-colored tights, a cozy sweater and knee-high boots to a lacy, summery skirt, and you have a formal Winter outfit where once only a light Summer outfit existed. I love the unexpected mix of colors and textures, not to mention the chance to reuse old favorites in a new season.

This same idea can easily be applied to more formal wardrobe items as well. You can add a ruffled cardigan and tights to a dressier sundress or skirt, for example. You can even layer tights under a pair of formal shorts and finish off the look with a belted sweater or blouse.

So, see? Christmas parties aren't so bad after all.

Tell us how you plan to get glammed up this season.
And save some egg nog for me.

An Attitude of (Shopping) Gratitude

There is a lot to be thankful for this season. Like the delicious cupcake I found in the fridge this evening.

And a little Shabby Apple sale, which is our way of saying a Big Thanks! To you, our faithful fans and shoppers, who we love with all our hearts.

So, please accept our heartfelt gratitude by enjoying 15 percent off everything at Shabby Apple, from now through December 2.

Happy holidays, everyone!

You're welcome, I'm sure.

Party Like It's 1943

The holiday party season is nearly upon us.

This fact brings to mind two important questions.

1. Does anyone know what happened to 2009? Seriously guys, it is almost gone. And yet, I could have sworn it just began.

2. Is your wardrobe up to the challenge of months of office soirees and neighborhood get-togethers?

It probably doesn't surprise you that I have some good news, at least when it comes to Question #2. Today's good news comes in the form of 1943, Shabby Apple's newest line of chic and utterly fabulous dresses. These dresses are just what the doctor ordered for all your holiday party wardrobe woes.

But, let me warn you before you continue, that you are going to want every single one of these dresses. Literally. Every single one. Keep reading at your (pocketbook's) own risk.

Take, for example, this charming white flower and grey wool dress, Bugle Boy. For me, it was love at first sight. Are you feeling the same?

Pair this dress with brightly colored or textured tights and some daring ankle booties to spice up the neighborhood holiday scene.

Is there a more formal event in your future social calendar? Then might I suggest you turn to Casablanca.

This black dress, accented with a large bow on the front, turns up the drama and the class, making it the perfect fit for a winter wedding or a formal office party. On the accessories front, a pair of shoes in an equally rich fabric, such as velvet or satin, are all this dress needs.

If meeting friends or family for a celebratory dinner after work is the order of the day, then Gary Cooper, a charcoal pinstripe dress made of limited edition Italian suiting wool, is the order of the day as well.

This dress transitions seamlessly from day to night. Just add an oversized pearl necklace or a creatively placed sparkling brooch to take the final step from work to play.

If getting hearts racing is your goal, turn up the color and the volume with this red cowl-necked dress, West Coast Swing.



This splash of color will set you apart from the sometimes drab colors of the cold season right away. I recommend it for snagging the attention of a certain someone under the mistletoe. Tuck a large feather or flower, preferably in a contrasting color, into your hair and you'll be sure to turn all the right heads.

And, if you can believe it, there are more of these dresses! I could write something glowing about every single one of them (seriously, guys, seriously), but I will leave the rest of the gushing to you. Hop on over, check out the whole line and then come back and tell us: Which 1943 dress is your favorite?

Rewind Summer, Fast-Forward Fall

It is about that time of year when you start to pack up your light, summery fare with a tear in your eye, and brace yourself for a long, cold Fall and Winter without some of your favorite things. (Need a tissue?)

But, wait!

Wipe those eyes!

There is still mileage and fashion fun to be had throughout the Fall (and maybe even Winter, too) with some of your favorite Summer staples. Here are four Summer pieces to keep in your closet even as the weather turns cooler.

1. A sundress (or two)
Sundresses are perfect to layer over jeans, or heavy leggings, or layer under a scarf and cool leather jacket. It will be a breath of summer air, even when the warmer months are all but forgotten.




2. Your favorite pair of shorts
Believe it or not (and you just might not), shorts are seasonless! All you need is a pair of tights (anything from black to patterned to neon will do), and a feminine Fall blouse and you are ready to go! Consider a pair of booties to really round out the look for colder weather.




3. Strappy sandals
A chunkier, platform sandal can easily make the transition with some knee- or thigh-high, thick socks. Feel free to go with warmer colors, like purple or cranberry, but stick to a neutral-colored shoe to anchor the look.




4. Light shifts
Just like the sundress, you might think your other lightweight summer dresses are doomed to be seasoned out, but such is not the case! Invest in some leggings and long-sleeved T-shirts and casual jackets and suddenly, you are not dealing with a summer dress anymore! Fall-themed statement jewerly can help finish off the look.




And here is a bonus for the men in your lives. (Or the men reading this blog. Hey, guys!)

5. Boat shoes
Get a boat shoe in a darker color, or more Fall-esque fabric, like suede and your favorite Summer casual will live through the Fall and Winter as well.




Looking forward to the Fall a little more now?
What Summer piece can't you wait to take into the new season?

Don't Sweater It

Have I already mentioned how much I love Fall? Because I sure do.

And here is one of my favorite things about Fall: Sweaters!

Boy oh boy, do I love sweaters. There is something cozy and nostalgic and all-around comforting about a good sweater. I can't get enough.

This Fall, I am particularly loving long, chunkier sweaters that almost border on a coat. Do you know the sweater of which I speak?

Some of them have collars, some of them button, some of them tie around the waist. I've seen them with short sleeves, long sleeves, and no sleeves, like a vest. I've seen them over a ruffled dress shirt and dress pants, and layered over a well-worn flannel and broken in jeans. The versatility astounds!

I popped into Ann Taylor Loft yesterday and they were everywhere.

This button-down, collared number is great over a nice shirt and a skirt, as you see it here. In this outfit, I see the sweater as sort of a twist on the traditional business suit jacket. But, I can also see this sweater over a patterned, long-sleeved shirt for a weekend, or even a graphic tee for some extra coverage during the in-between weather.




I also really loved this tie-waisted cardigan. The simple neckline could easily be paired with a collar or some ruffles, and this sweater has the same day to evening to weekend potential. I imagine you could take the tie off if you wanted something more open and draped, or you could add a pop of color or pattern by cinching the sweater with one of your favorite belts instead.




And this little number takes sweater vests right out of dorky and right into adorable. I think this is another one you could close with a belt or even some thick, boldly colored ribbon, and the layering options are just as varied. I am envisioning a band T-shirt and a studded belt with your favorite jeans for a little rocker chic, over a long tunic and leggings for an easy weekend ensemble (as you see here), or with a slim top and trousers for the office.




As it happens, Ann Taylor Loft is having a "buy one sweater, get the second sweater half off" sale on the Web site, so now might not be a bad time to stalk up. Or, if you're looking for some slightly cheaper alternatives, and are blessed to live near an H&M, I have seen some similarly darling options there. (If you are not blessed to live near an H&M, first, my condolences. Second, I can sometimes be convinced to do favors by baked goods and/or DVDs of "The West Wing.")

How about you? Are you sweat(er)ing it?
Tell is about your favorite sweater trend for Fall!

Following Fall

Labor Day is behind us, school has started, and there is a definite nip in the morning air, so I think it is safe to say Fall is creeping in.

I happen to love Fall (it is the season of my birth, among many other admirable attributes), so I am always happy to see it come to town. But even those of you who mourn the departure of Summer will rejoice in these new Fall trends, courtesy of People Magazine. (From whence all good things come.)

Black Leather

Try it in pants, minis, jackets or leggings. Or, for all-out sex appeal, try a second skin leather dress like Angelina Jolie.

Check out Forever 21 for cutting edge leather styles on a budget.

Red Alert

Make a statement in the bold hue from head to toe, or add a pop to more neutral Fall colors with a red bag or shoes.



Sheath Dresses

Defined by a slim, figure-hugging silhoutte and a well-defined waistline, sheath dresses are flattering on more body types than just Renee Zelwegger's. (Thank goodness.) Subtle prints and tailored details can help flatter most any figure.



Bright Bags

Jewel-toned totes are another perfect way to liven up any Fall outfit. (Not sure what to say about SJP's glasses, though...)



Leopard Print

This has been one of my personal favorites for a while, and leopard print is getting a new twist this season with classy, more subdued options like this snowy gray tone.

Don't worry. It's not hard to get into the leopard print trend yourself.

Neon Pink and Black

A flouncy blouse paired with a pencil skirt is a great way to get in on this trend. Color block dresses will do the trick, too.



Ruffled Ruffles

This is another Fall trend I am loving, loving, loving. Ruffles can add a feminine touch to everything from a leather jacket to a slim cardigan, to a collared blouse to a hoodie to sandals and booties.



Bold Gold

Statement necklaces have been hot for a while now, and the trend has been getting even bigger (literally) with massive bib necklaces hitting the scene in the last few months. Add a little gold to either of those trends and you'll be right on message.



And you don't have to spend a fortune, either.

Sparkling Shoes

Another pick me up on somber Autumn days? Shoes with some sparkle! Try pumps with a shimmer or flats with some sequins and tell me you don't feel better already.



Embellished T-shirts

Skip the jewelry shopping all together and go for a shirt with some built-in bling. A shirt and necklace in one? Yes, please!



Dressy Leggings

What was once only an accessory has become a full-blown wardrobe item of its own. Play dress up in leggings embellished rhinestones, lace or sequins.



Vintage-Style Jewelry

The real thing can sometimes be hard to find, but jewelry with ribbon or crystal details gives the vintage vibe just as well, and it won't break the bank.



With all that good fashion ahead, I bet we're all fans of Fall now.

Which Fall trend can't you wait to try out?

Pic-Nic, Pic-Chic

It is the season of picnics. (I happen to have one later this week.)





Here are some things I love about picnics:





Lemonade!


Sunshine!


Croquet!


Lots of dessert!


Outside, outside!


Checkered table cloths!


Potato salad!


Bare feet in the grass!





Here are some things I don't love about picnics:


Mosquitoes!


Ants!


Any and all bugs!


The possibility of being a bird poop target!


Flimsy paper plates!


I can't keep my different foods from touching each other!





And, of course, what to wear?!? You need something that will keep you cool while still looking cool. Something that is not schlumpy (yes, I made up that word. And I bet you know exactly what I mean, too) but that can still get a little messy (that croquet can really get out of hand). Something cute and summery and light that you can still wear while sitting on the ground without giving away the farm.





Ah, the dilemma.





Never fear, my picnicking posse! Here are some solutions.





Bermuda Traingle


Bermuda shorts or walking shorts are a great answer to the question: What will keep me cool, comfortable and covered up? Instead of a heavy denim, go with khaki or a fun seer sucker fabric. Pair your shorts with a light-weight top and you'll look and feel cool until the cows come home.



A not-too-revealing sundress, especially one with a longer skirt, is also a good option.





Top It Off


A hat or visor is a perfect accessory for your outdoor ensemble. It's a great way to add a little picnic pizzazz, and will also keep you safe from too much sun. Go with a wide brim for the maximum coverage and style.








Avoid Accessories Overload


A casual picnic is not the place for your fancy jewelry. Besides the fact that it might get lost, it will also be sorely out of place you might wish that you could lose it. Instead of glittery baubles, stick with a simple watch and maybe a small pair of earrings or an understated necklace. Anything more will be too much.





Take a Tote


A tote can fit everything you need-- a camera, cell phone, sunscreen and even a sweater for the cooler evening hours-- and gives you a chance to add both style and function. (Oh, how I love efficiency!) Consider sticking with a darker color that doesn't show outside dirt so easily.








Canvassed


As is often the case, footwear can be the biggest challenge to your picnic duds. You won't be running a half marathon around the back door, so sneakers seem like overkill, but if you'll be playing frisbee or volleyball sandals don't quite cut it either. The answer lies somewhere in between. Go with a low canvas skimmer or another sporty slip-on. It will be just right.

And now, off you go!

Just save some lemonade for me!



{Like what you see? Shorts and visor from Nordstrom, tote from ebags and skimmers from Nordstrom. Loving style advice from me.}

Bathing Beauty

It's a little hard to believe since I am still wearing long sleeves and multiple pairs of socks, but I am already getting bombarded with e-mails about spring swimwear lines. That's right, swimsuit season is almost upon us! And, may I just say, I am loving this new trend of retro swimming suits? I may? Well, thank you kindly. I am loving this new trend of retro swimming suits.

For one thing, they make one-pieces hip again, which is good news for those of us looking for more coverage rather than less. I am especially digging the styles with a lower cut leg. I've got a little junk in the trunk, you know, and I don't need everyone seeing all of it.

But, more than that, these suits are just plain adorable! I adore the flirty ruffles, the old-school prints and the overall classiness. A quick online search will probably bring up dozens and dozens of options, but here are some of my recent favorites.

I just can't get enough of these cheery polka dots.



The ruching and halter top give this retro throwback black swimsuit just the right amount of sass.



If you're looking for something that really makes a statement try this boldly striped suit, just the right mix and daring and demure.


Never mind that I still have to sleep with a heating pad, perfect sunny days by the pool or the waves will be here soon enough, and I think we all deserve a smashing new suit to celebrate. Don't you?

And please, tell us.

What are your must-have features in that perfect swimsuit?

Tie One On

{Image from moeys.net}



Whether you live in cold weather (I feel your pain) or warm weather (I hate you), temperatures are bound to drop some time, and when they do, a nice scarf is the perfect accessory to keep you feeling warm and looking good.

And scarves aren't just for outerwear anymore either. A lighter-weight scarf in a trendy pattern (I hear buffalo plaid is in) or a unique fabric (knit! sparkly!) is the perfect accent to a graphic T-shirt or a solid-colored blouse.

Now, if you are like me (and I hope at least one of you is), wearing a trendy fashion scarf is a sort of intimidating proposition. I am always afraid I will look, well ridiculous. But, Shabby Apple friends, never fear! Follow these simple guidelines (with examples set by our celebrity friends!) and you'll look flawless every time.

Do: Choose a classic monochromatic look.

Tone on tone outfits plus scarf look best with neutrals, such as black, navy, camel and cream. Up your sophistication, and keep your outfit from veering to boring, by mixing fabrics, including satin, velvet and wool. {Image by Stephen Lovekin/Getty Images}

Don't: Think a scarf can save a bad outfit.

If it looks bad without a scarf, it won't look any better with one. Another hint: save skinny scarves for more fitted tops and jackets.

Do: Wear a flattering color next to your face.

If you wouldn't buy a chartreuse shirt or sweater, you probably shouldn't buy a chartreuse scarf either. But a flattering pop of color can add excitement to a fluffy winter coat.

Don't: Overwhelm your look with a scarf.

If people feel like they need to stop your scarf from choking you, it's probably too big and too knotted. And what is the point of putting on a shirt at all if you are just going to cover it with an enormous scarf? Instead of going for a huge knot at your throat, drape longer scarves, or tie them with a loose not further down. {Image by Amy Sussman/Getty Images}

Do: Make a scarf your spotlight accessory.

A simple scarf in an elegant fabric, such as pashmina or cashmere, is a perfect winter substitute for showy jewelry. Choose a bold, clean color that contrasts nicely with the rest of your ensemble for a winning evening look.

Don't: Throw on a scarf as an afterthought.

You can't just toss on a polka-dot scarf with a cocktail dress and expect anyone to think you put a lot of thought into it. Make sure the style of your scarf matches the tone of the rest of your outfit. And, if the scarf takes away instead of adding, skip it. Just because scarves are stylish doesn't mean they look good all the time.

Do: Wear a scarf for dressy events.

A broad scarf in a classy color, such as red, and a classy fabric, such as pashmina, can add color and warmth to more formal ensembles. Wrap a longer scarf loosely around your neck once and let the ends hang down, or drape a scarf around your shoulders and toss the ends over either side. Use a sparkling decorative brooch to keep it in place. {Image by Frederick M. Brown/Getty Images}

Don't: Overaccessorize.

Put a floppy hat with a long scarf and a pair of sunglasses, and you'll look more like a fugitive than a fashion-plate. Remember that there is such a thing as too much of a good thing, and make sure your accessories are not competing with eachother. (Also, if a hat and a scarf got in a fight, who do you think would win?)

Do: Try a print scarf.

The right pattern can set of your outfit perfectly. For example, a colorful plaid is the perfect compliment to a muted pea coat. And a lighter-weight scarf with a trendy pattern is a great way to spice up a simple black or white T-shirt.

Now, once you have the perfect scarf picked out, there are as many ways to tie it up or twist it around as there are people reading this blog post. (And, by that I mean a lot. There are a lot of you reading this blog post, right?) For example, do you want to wear a scarf around your head? As a belt? Under a coat? If you are looking for a little inspiration, here are some pointers on how to tie a scarf.

Good luck!

And tell us, is a scarf one of your go-to winter accessories?

That's Tight

I came across this image on The Sartorialist earlier today, and was reminded how much I love boldly colored and patterned tights. In fact, I am wearing bright pink, knit tights as we speak and I'm not going to lie. They look pretty hot.

Bright and patterned hosiery made a scene on the runways this season and, unlike mile-high hats or dresses with huge pieces cut out, this is one trend that translates into real-life as well. Not to mention that bright colors, bold stripes and funky patterns are a great way to warm up the dreary winter months and your little leggies.

Here are a few tips to help you put your best stockinged foot forward. 

Leg up

Keep your clothes simple and let your tights take center stage. For example, if you're wearing tights with a geometric pattern, don't wear clothes with a busy pattern as well. If you're feeling adventurous and want to mix subtler patterns and textures, stick with solid colored shoes and go with a head-to-toe monochromatic color scheme. {'Heather Hip' Diamond Tights from Nordstrom}

Mute button

If you are afraid you can't pull off some of the season's more outrageous colors, such as lime green or fuchsia, you can still follow the trend but keep a lid on it, with more muted colors such as plum or khaki. 

Left to the Imagination

Another way to ease yourself into a bold print or pattern is to just show a little glimpse. Pair an eye-catching geometric design with a skirt and boots and let the pattern fill the gap, without overwhelming you or your outfit. 

Wear the Pants

Who said hosiery always has to go under skirts? The season's hottest colors and patterns are available in thigh-high, knee-high and ankle-high options as well and can be just as striking when paired with pants, especially if you finish off the look with a killer pair of shoes. Round-toed shoes, court shoes, sling-backs and strappy sandals add a little vavoom and let the colors and patterns show through. {Image from Nordstrom.com}

Layer Up

Why only wear one trend when you can wear two? If you are looking to pack a punch in both color and texture, layer a pair of fishnets over a pair of colored opaque tights for a unique, runway worthy look.

And that's not all! Check out this photo slideshow from About.com for more hints on how to get the most out of every kind of hosiery.

Then tell us: what's keeping your legs warm this winter?

The Proper Party Animal

It is the season. The season for evergreen trees and sparkling ornaments. The season for giving and getting. The season for lots and lots of chocolate. It is also the season for lots and lots of parties. Family parties, caroling parties, office parties and tree trimming parties. That's a lot of dresses! Here are some tips to look your holiday best no matter where you're going.

Office Space

For a work holiday party, err on the conservative side and stay away from anything that might be considered risque. I think we can all agree that flashing your boss is not the way to spread holiday cheer. Go for something simple but sophisticated, such as a slinky pencil skirt and a ruffled top, or a little black dress with tasteful embellishments. Also, don't be afraid to experiment with color and texture. Shoes and jewelry can add just the right amount of pop and uniqueness. If you are going with bold colors in your clothes, though, keep your jewelry in a supporting role rather than center stage. Finally, try not to confess your undying love for that co-worker you've been crushing on in front of everyone, and the evening should be a success!

In the neighborhood

For a neighborhood party with friends you have a lot more leeway with your wardrobe. Don't be afraid to mix unexpected items, such as a lace over-lay top with a bright skirt and a patterned clutch or shoes. If you opt for pants, they don't have to be boring or overly dressy. Pants in a fancier fabric, such as velvet or satin, are sleek and chic, and comfortable to boot.

Fancy Pants

If you are attending a party at a country club, or at the home of a client or business contact, easy elegance is the order of the day. Wearing a dress will help you feel more pulled together. Spice it up with a patent belt around the waist, or a shiny clutch. Fancy jewelry, such as a large statement necklace or a sparkling brooch will add the perfect polish, and keep all eyes on you for all the right reasons.

Forget The Faux Pas

It will be pretty hard to go wrong if you follow the tips we've already talked about but, just in case, here are some things to be sure to avoid, no matter what the occassion.

1. Wearing too much glitz. Beading and metallics are exactly what the season ordered, but use them sparingly and well. Too much shine can overwhelm anyone, especially if you put it in places you don't necessarily want to highlight. For example, our busty friends shouldn't wear a sweater with extensive embellishment in the chest area. Don't say I didn't warn you.

2. Showing too much skin. Thigh-high miniskirts and dresses cut down to the belly button look great on the runway, but are basically impossible to pull off in real life, so let's not even try, shall we? Not only is it possible to look sexy and still leave something to the imagination, you'll look your best when you do. The secret is to wear things that make a suggestion rather than an outright statement. A lace camisole hints at great cleavage (again with the bustiness), a simple slit in a skirt gives a glimpse of great gams, and a cap sleeved dress is the perfect way to show off toned arms.

3. Getting caught with nothing to wear. There is nothing worse than getting an invitation to the perfect holiday party and not having the perfect thing to wear. By keeping a few dressy basics in your closet, you'll be ready for even the most last-minute of invitations.

4. Making it too complicated. Even the most organized woman can get overwhelmed during the holiday season, coordinating travel, baking, parties and presents with the perfect holiday wardrobe on top. Instead of trying to match separates, go with a simple black dress this season, and change it up with different accessories and shoes. Throw on a luxurious wrap for a dressy party, or a pair of flats and a chunky beaded necklace for a more casual affair. You'll feel like you're wearing a different dress every time, and so will everyone else.

5. Being under or over dressed. There's nothing worse than showing up in jeans when everyone else is in velvet, or wearing a party dress when everyone else is in business clothes. And you're not alone if you can't decipher vague descriptions like "business casual" or "cocktail attire," so when in doubt call your host and ask what would be best.

Are you a party animal?

What ensemble puts the happy in your holidays?

Best Foot Forward

I think I have already made my general dislike of winter pretty apparent, but I am going to add one more thing to the list. Winter wreacks havoc on my shoe wardrobe. Suddenly all my adorable ballet flats and patterned summer shoes are unwearable, unless I want to lose my toes to slushy frost bite (which I do not). But, on the flip (flop) side, I won't want to spend the whole entire cold season in snow boots. What is a girl to do?

Well, here are a few ideas for building up a winter shoe wardrobe that will keep you warm and stylish.

Warm on the Outside

Every girl needs at least one pair of warm but stylish winter boots that work just as well for walking around in a Winter Wonderland just as well as they do at the office. Leather boots are always a safe bet. Just be sure to treat them with a weather-proofing product to keep them safe in rain or shine. Knee-high boots will give your legs an extra level of warmth. Pair knee-high boots with some heavy tights and you won't even know it's winter!

It's also worth investing in a pair of boots you can tuck your jeans into. You'll be hitting a major trend for this winter, and you'll be keeping the hem of your pants dry on wet, slushy days. No matter how stylish your shoes are, no one will notice if the bottom of your pants is dripping wet.

If your needs are a little more casual, go for a cheaper fix with a pair of Uggs, or a similar style. It doesn't matter if they wear out by the end of the cold season (and they probably will). Chuck them when warm weather comes back and just get another pair next winter. Also, keep your eyes peeled for shoes with faux fur. It's not just boots that come with trimming anymore. Faux fur trimming can be found on all kinds of styles, including mules and clogs.

Rain boots are also a good addition to any winter shoe wardrobe. Rain boots are perfect for navigating slush puddles on wet, winter days. Rain boots are also a perfect chance to be bold! Go for bright colors and fun patterns.

Stylish on the Inside

One way to keep wearing non-industrial shoes even once winter hits is to leave a pair of nice, dressy shoes at the office, or take them with you wherever you are going. Whether a party or a friend's house, you can usually make a quick change out of your snowboots into something more stylish and festive.

For indoor winter shoes, choose rich fabrics and textures that will add some spice to your feet (in a good way) and keep your toes warm. Suede, velvet and velour are a good place to start. Also look for shoes in colors that match the season, such as deep plum, chocolate, crimson and gold. And for formal holiday footwear, try shoes with rhinestones, metal buckles and other accents. The weather might be drab, but your shoes don't have to be.

Best Foot Forward

Here are some other things to keep in mind.

Heed the heel: Thicker, wider heels less than two inches tall are usually best for winter boots and shoes. Anything higher can be treacherous when walking across slippery surfaces.

Leave a little wiggle room: When trying on boots and other winter shoes, be sure to account for the fact that you'll be wearing thicker socks or tights throughout the winter. Bringing a pair of winter socks with you ensures you'll go home with the right fit.

Stick to leather: This is a little gross, but your feet sweat a lot more in the winter because they are wrapped up in warm socks and shoes. Leather absorbs better than any other material. (Told you. Gross. But also useful.)

Insulate: Soaked feet are in immediate danger of frostbite in super-cold temperatures, so make sure you are wearing insulated, water-proof boots and shoes that keep your feet warm and dry.

Have a little sole: For all your winter footwear, it is critical to pay attention to the sole. Textured, rubber soles work the best because the grip will help you avoid slips and falls. Also a word to the wise from painful personal experience: if your friend falls and you laugh, you will fall before you know it. It's a universal law. So watch out!

Do you enjoy Walking in a Winter Wonderland?

Tell us about your favorite snowy season shoes.