The Budget Babe | Affordable Fashion & Style Blog

Capsule Wardrobe: Holiday Season

Seriously stylish holiday outfit ideas on a budget
I know it’s been a while since the last capsule wardrobe post, but buckle up because this one is going to be great. Perhaps I was inspired by my recent shopping excursions...or maybe it’s my fresh coat of metallic silver nail polish, but I’m feeling the holiday season like no other. I’m ready for Thanksgiving and beyond. Centered around 3 fabulous items under $50, this 7-outfit capsule will get you ready for dressing to impress during any festive gatherings over the next few months. So sit back, relax, and enjoy (hot cocoa optional)...

Zara High Neck Waistcoat $50
I have spent the last few weeks (and maybe months) looking for a great gray, longline winter coat. I finally found one, which was great. In my search, however, I found this amazing high neck waistcoat from Zara. It’s not a dress and probably more like a shirt, but still makes an amazing addition for layering.

John Lewis Clutch $40
I had a party in downtown Cleveland last Wednesday, so naturally I went shopping beforehand. I bought a really simple gray turtleneck shift dress. I thought it was the perfect combo of edgy, cool, cozy, and minimalistic. To amp up this really simple dress, I added a great raw stone necklace and a new clutch. I have already gotten so many compliments on this clutch and have officially replaced my old wallet. So I am definitely clutch-obsessed at the moment. This doe version by John Lewis is so perfect for the holidays. It’s festive, but can be worn all-year long.

Newlook Bronze Metallic Brogues $38
I saw a young woman the other day wearing metallic gold oxfords. I was in love. She made them look stylish and cool, not flashy. She wore them casually, which inspired me so much. This bronze pair is equally as cool and stylish.





Nothing screams the holiday fashion season like sequins. If done in a muted or neutral color, like these leggings, sequins can really add something to your cool factor instead of diminish it. These leggings are definitely not for the fashion self-conscious.





I have a confession. I have a turtleneck obsession (as of this season). Who wouldn’t want to look like Audrey Hepburn in her black turtleneck and high-waisted black trousers? I think this waistcoat really would look great layered over this black high-neck dress, with a hint of the black hemline peaking out. Add cool by throwing on some on-trend fringe boots, awesome clutch, and vegan leather bracelets.





Metallic, metallic, metallic. I love it. Like I said, my nails right now are a metallic silver. I think metallic just looks good amidst the falling snow and pine needles. Moderation is key when dressing with metallics.





In the past, the flower-child image of the 60s was big. It was trendy to look like you were stuck in a timewarp of Woodstock. Recently, I have been seeing more Grace Kelly and Audrey Hepburn. Clean, sophisticated, minimalistic. These patterned trousers and oversized jumper definitely look like a flashback, with the bronze oxfords snapping you back to the present.





Remember when I said that moderation was key in metallics? That’s still true. This outfit may look like a lesson against that motto, but it is in fact a strong example of moderation. The colors are refined to gray, black, white. The pattern is geometric and simple. The metallic is restricted to the lower half of the body. It’s fabulous and clean. I think a messy lob haircut would really amp up the cool factor.





Like I said before, this waistcoat is really a top and not a dress. You can pair this outfit with a pair of black trousers. When you’re taking a break from your metallic overdose, try some velvet. Velvet is definitely another fabric which is perfect for the holiday season.





Another reason I love this clutch is because it goes with everything. It ties this whole outfit together. The shoes match the clutch. The top matches the clutch. The skirt complements the clutch. It just unifies everything together. Pair this outfit with black opaque tights or hope for warm weather.

Thoughts?

Which look(s) would you wear? What trends are you into this holiday fashion season? Let us know in the comments!
Comments
Killer collection! I love it! You've inspired me big time!
#1 Katie Lewis on 2015-11-18 08:29 (Reply)
That grey sleeveless sweater is such a great find and such a unique piece! Love!

Wishes & Reality
#2 Heidi (Homepage) on 2015-11-18 16:21 (Reply)
loooove the blackfive leather jacket. but the link takes me to Ohhmylove prom dresses.....
#3 sheila (Homepage) on 2015-11-19 11:06 (Reply)
That is so weird, I have no idea why their link is redirecting...it points to Blackfive.com then redirects. Sorry about that! You could try this one instead at Last Call: http://fave.co/1S7JeII
#3.1 The Budget Babe on 2015-11-19 20:14 (Reply)
Great post! You nailed these fashions spot-on..could take over for BB blog when she goes on maternity leave...your text is very descriptive...especially loved the checkered pants..notice many British stores or at least the pound sign? does this make for long shipping times?
#3.1.1 margot on 2015-11-20 14:49 (Reply)
Margot you're a mind reader! If only I was more organized and Lauren had more free time (sniff sniff)...but your suggestion is not lost on me ;-)
#3.1.1.1 The Budget Babe on 2015-12-05 17:21 (Reply)
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