What To Wear To A Christmas Party In Vintage Style? Thanksgiving upon us and following right on it’s heels is the Holiday Party Season. Truly, it IS the most wonderful time of the year! Perhaps you have either got a handful of invitations that fill your December calendar, or you are the hostess to what you hope is the “Event Of The Season”. Either way, you need to have at least one knock-out party outfit ready to light up the night. We are very lucky to have a dear friend that will help us out on the hot topic of what to wear, she is the Diva of Dressing to the Nines in Retro Style, Theresa Campbell of BlueVelvetVintage.com. Let’s chat with Theresa and get her thoughts on festive and fun party wear with a vintage vibe.
When I get invited to a party I always want to be sure to dress according to the occasion, and make the most of the opportunity to dress in vintage style too.
What do I wear to a casual party at a friend’s home that will be fabulously festive but not “over the top”?
For a casual house party one of my favorite looks is a pair of cigarette pants, known as skinny pants today, or a pencil skirt worn with a 1960s sleeveless beaded sequined sweater. Worn with a pair of kitten heels of course!
Let’s talk about the decades of style as far as evening wear for a Holiday Soiree.
Since the remake of “The Great Gatsby” is coming out soon, we can discuss the 1920s flapper style as an idea starter. What are your thoughts on a Christmastime 1920s outfit? The 1920s look is really hot right now and its looser fitting silhouette is flattering on a wide range of figures. Most people think of short fringed flapper dresses when they think of the 1920s. But there were many other different styles in that decade. Most were below knee to 
ankle length. Formal events call for dresses with lots of beading. Art deco motifs were prevalent. For a 1920s holiday look, you would need a straight sheath style dress, perhaps with a dropped waistline or a pointed, handkerchief hem. Accessorize with cloche hats, feathered headbands, long strands of pearls, T strap or Mary Jane heels. Here’s link to my fashion guide on how to put together a 1920s look.
The 1930s and 1940s were a wonderful time in Old Hollywood. Inspire us on this theme for a glamour girl look from these eras. For a 30s or 40s Old Hollywood theme, you need to think sensual, slinky and sophisticated. More body conscious than the fashion of the 20s. Think Rita Hayworth and Jean Harlow. 
Gowns made of satins, taffetas and crepes with low backs, draping, swags, and gathers. Ankle strap, platform heels, long gloves, glitzy hair flowers, jeweled hair combs. Here’s a fashion guide to creating an Old Hollywood Glamour look.
_Of course the 1950s was a super fun time in fashion, if I want to sweep into a party and wow ’em with a look where do I start?
The most popular silhouette from the 50s was inspired by Dior’s New Look, which consists of tight fitting bodices with very full, tea length skirts. It is ultimately flattering and feminine. Wear with a petticoat beneath for a true 50s look. This red dress from Bettie Page Clothing would be a perfect 50s look for a holiday party. Don’t forget the red lipstick!
We are now all mad, mad mad for the 1960s. A current trend in vintage fashion has been inspired by AMC TV Program “Mad Men”. How do I pull off my best mid century modern look? The clothing worn by the ladies of Mad Men is classy and ladylike, but still sexy. That’s why it holds such appeal. For a
fab mid century party look, go with curvy, pencil dresses a la Joan Holloway or brocade shifts or mini dresses inspired by the fashions of Meghan, the new Mrs Don Draper.
_One way to determine what to wear to a Christmas party is the invitation that was sent to you. It will hold clues to your attire for the evening just in its design. Your host may also add the line, “vintage attire requested”, then the fun begins!
