One of the best accessories at a holiday party is a dazzling and delicious cocktail, but what about the rest of the outfit? Our team sat down with Stylist Cathy Starnes to talk head-turning holiday cocktail party outfits using unique accessories. Starnes has worked in styling for more than 15 years, running her own personal styling business in Washington DC before moving to Grand Rapids, Michigan, and opening Iris Boutique. Her tips and tricks for stylish looks that reflect the spirit of the season are below. Take a look and then enter our Instagram giveaway featuring accessories from Iris Boutique.
“I do believe in the power of accessories, so if you have a limited budget for the holidays, pick a basic outfit that you feel good in and use accessories to change it up.” Stylist Cathy Starnes
Think Beyond Little Black Dress
“Cocktail does not necessarily mean little black dress and heels.”
An outfit you feel comfortable in can be elevated quickly to cocktail attire with well-chosen accessories. Think silky tops, jumpsuits, and jeans with some added sparkle or a touch of bold color. If you’re wearing a dress, consider grey, olive, or navy this season to freshen things up.
“A jumpsuit is a great option that can feel dressy but still comfortable…and a flowy maxi dress can still feel very cocktail-y and very comfortable.”
Incorporate Bold Colors and Textures
“People are ready for a little joy, a little color in their lives.”
This season Starnes is seeing a lot of bold colors and textures. Hot pink is in, according to the stylist. It’s the popular ‘Barbiecore’ trend. So is emerald green and other striking jewel tones. Handbags with woven leather or croc-embossed patterns add a unique flair to a cocktail outfit.
“We are seeing a lot of chunky chains and texture in general. Classic hoop earrings are having a bit of a trendy moment right now.”
Add a Statement Piece
“Something sparkly, colorful, or fun adds interest around your face.”
If the party starts soon and you require a quick glow-up, choose a bold statement piece like fun earrings, a sparkly headband, or a cute clutch. Festive attire is all about the accessories.
“If you have time for only one thing, I would add a statement pair of earrings.”
3 Must-Try Festive Holiday Cocktails
Thatcher’s Cosmo
- 1 oz Thatcher’s Organic Blood Orange Liqueur
- 1.5 oz Coppercraft Citrus Vodka
- .75 oz lime juice
- .5 oz cranberry juice
- Lime wheel, garnish
Combine all ingredients into a shaker with ice. Shake until well-chilled and strain into a chilled glass. Garnish with lime wheel.
LBD (Little Black Dress)
- 1.5 oz Thatcher’s Organic Small Batch Vodka
- 1.5 oz Chambord Liqueur
- 1 raspberry
- 1 blackberry
- 1 blueberry
- Blackberry, garnish
Muddle (pummel with a muddle stick) the three fruits in a cocktail shaker, add liqueur and vodka, then shake. Serve in a martini glass. One blackberry, one raspberry, and one blueberry to garnish.
See the full recipe and instructions here.
The Red Ruby
- 1.5 oz Thatcher’s Organic Small Batch Vodka
- .5 oz Thatcher’s Organic Blood Orange Liqueur
- .5 oz dry vermouth
- 3 oz cranberry juice
- Ice
- Cranberries, garnish
Combine Thatcher’s Organic Small Batch Vodka, Thatcher’s Organic Blood Orange Liqueur, vermouth, cranberry juice, and ice in a cocktail shaker. Shake vigorously to chill. Pour into martini glass. Garnish with cranberries.
See the full recipe and instructions here.
To help you create your own holiday cocktail party outfit we are giving away glam accessories from Iris Boutique only on our Instagram page. Enter and then share your own cocktail party looks for the holidays by using #thatchersorganic on social media.
Find Thatcher’s Organic Artisan Spirits at a store near you. Join our mailing list to stay up to date with the latest from Thatcher’s. You can also follow us on Facebook and Instagram to stay up to date.
