with what i have :: holiday party

An invitation to an evening, holiday party has me thinking about what I have in my closet that could look appropriate + a bit festive too. While I think it could be lovely to have a dress or two that get pulled out for such merriment, I don't.

Instead, I have what I now recognize as clothes for the daytime. Since I'd rather not shop for a single event, I'm going to try to look creatively at what I have.

I have a few more days to decide what I'll wear, but my thinking is going like this so far:

• All black :: When I want to look a bit more dressy, the simplest thoughts I have are towards dressing in all black. I like a black jumpsuit or black cashmere sweater in a minimal wardrobe, because they can be really versatile. 

• A playful element that says, "Holiday!" :: Something about the image of the red plaid bow tied at the neck of the gingham smock stopped me in my scrolling tracks the other day. I have a white linen button-up that could look playfully festive tied up with one of these colorful ribbons from Madre Linen (or another wide ribbon). Alternatively, it could be fun to wrap a ribbon around my head + tie a big bow under my looped ponytail or at the side of my head (if I got really brave).  :)

• Dressier shoes, coat, hat... :: A pair of dark jeans or a jumpsuit that I usually pair with trainers is instantly elevated when paired with dressier shoes + a longer coat. I think a red beret could add a playful, festive touch.

• Playful thinking :: This one is purely theoretical, but I'm wondering if (hoping that) displaying a bit of playfulness on the outside might allow me to sort of live into this attitude. Mingling activates my shyness, so I'm consciously asking my clothing to imbue me with a little lightness of spirit. I believe it's possible. :)

I love this sort of creative exercise. Minimalism offers us so many opportunities to stretch our imaginations toward different ways of being + that makes me so happy! Wishing you all the most fun + festive of holiday seasons!

All lovely photos via links.

Love,
Jane