A New Twist On The Holiday Dress: Ruffles

Okay, ruffles aren't exactly new, but when you combine ruffles, flowy fabrics and chic sexy cuts -- this is a new way to dress for the holidays. Leave the dreary colors and heavy fabrics behind (exception: black is always chic) and instead consider a sweet, soft, ultra-feminine dress to stand out from the crowd. Let the dress be the centerpiece, and keep the accessories simple and fuss-free (though a fabulous pair of heels is totally permissable). Extra bonus: all that lightness will make you feel way better about indulging in all that yummy egg nog and pumpkin cheesecake -- enjoy!


1. Weak in the Knees Dress, $67.99
Um, red for the holidays? Yes, please! Forget the necklace and big earrings, and go for a pretty shiny bangle and some beautiful shoes, and go.

2. Gentle Dawn Dress, $69.99
Winter white will stand out amidst a sea of basic black. We'd carry a velvet clutch, slip on a big cocktail ring, and call it good.

3. Reinventing a Classic Dress, $69.99
This dress is a terrific choice if you're tired of black but aren't quite ready to step too far out of the comfort zone. Gray is tres chic this fall, and we think the feminine tier ruffles soften what can sometimes be a harsh hue.



4. Razz Time Dress, $54.99
Okay, if you live in Minnesota and it's December 23, this may not be the dress for you -- but you warmer-weather fashionistas celebrate the holidays too, right? Just enough red to be festive, just enough white to stand out from the crowd. We like.

5. Tapas Bar Dress, $79.99
Even though we try not to get stuck in a rut, we like to think the ruffled neckline and hemline of this fun and flirty dress make it not-so-basic-black. Add some color and shine with an embellished metallic clutch and/or standout shoes.



6. Ruffle Neck Linen Sheath Dress by Taylor, $148 at Ann Taylor
White for the holidays? Hey if snow can do it, so can we. White will be a breath of fresh air among the holiday colors -- set it off with a pair of fabulous colored shoes and clutch, and you're good to go.


**For more fashion tips and advice, please visit TheBudgetFashionista.com


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