His-n-Her Christmas Party Outfits

You can't go wrong wearing red or green to a Christmas party, but avoid a plain red sweater or dress. Here are three ways to wear the colors of the season in a more sophisticated manner.

Brunello Cucinelli suede vest, Brooks Brothers plaid flats, Renee Lewis peridot earrings, J.Crew red pumps, &OtherStories green sweater and skirt.  Click here for links.

Brunello Cucinelli suede vest, Brooks Brothers plaid flats, Renee Lewis peridot earrings, J.Crew red pumps, &OtherStories green sweater and skirt.  Click here for links.

1) Choose your palette. Use pattern and texture to add a bit of interest.  A green checked shirt plus a green striped tie plus an olive suede vest looks festive and chic. Adding black and some fur to a red dress looks bright and stylish.

2) Make it shiny.  Look at the red plaid pants, green skirt or red patent pumps above; they all work because they shine.

3) When in doubt, accessorize.  If head-to-toe red or green doesn't feel quite "you," then choose one accessory in a merry color.  A black silk T-shirt and simple black pants plus red shoes or green earrings will make a subtle but effective statement. A red pocket square will pop on a black blazer.