Cocktail Attire

Perfectly polished has new meaning with a festive manicure from Paintbase Cary.

Bell sleeve blouse, $39; Black horn necklace, $42; Pleated pants, $49; From Pink Magnolia Boutique

Shake Up your party attire with a heaping dose of sparkle, a teaspoon of texture and a zest for special details. This winter’s style muddles the lines between day and night and his and hers, all without sacrificing the sparkle and shine we love for the season. Don’t forget to garnish with the ultimate accessory for holiday merrymaking — a coordinating craft cocktail. Our festive beverages were created by Verandah Bar & Lounge at Cary’s downtown Mayton Inn.

Velvet jumpsuit, $46; Beaded necklace, $28; From Pink Magnolia Boutique
Gold sequin clutch, $15; From Charming Charlie
Green and blue plaid jacket, $395; Navy tie with green dogs, $135; Pants, $175; From Ashworth’s Clothing
White shirt, $109; From The Art of Style

Very Velvet

Winter’s favorite fabric comes in updated colors this season. Watch for taupe, blush, icy blue and dark green.

White mesh shirt, $58; Grey skirt, $215; Grey corset top, $158; Silver ball drop earrings, $28; Patent leather booties, $88; From The Art of Style

His and Hers Suiting

Voluminous silhouettes, creative colors and bold patterns are surfacing in menswear styles for guys and gals. Adventurous takes on a traditional suit will turn heads at your office party.

Leather skirt, $38; Lace top, $42; Black tank, $28; Tassel earrings, $26; From Pink Magnolia Boutique

Leather and Lace

Naughty meets nice this holiday season by pairing dainty lace and edgy leather. Modest details, like a high neck and long sleeves, are balanced with an above-the-knee skirt.

Red and white gingham shirt, $155; Pants, $175; Tie, $115; Polka dot pocket square, $59.50; Blue jacket with red windowpane, $795; From Ashworth’s Clothing

America the Beautiful

Red does double duty this season — as a holiday staple and a nod to designers’ love for all things patriotic. Subtle pattern play keeps the look sophisticated, like this mix of gingham, stripes and windowpane.

Navy tie-back dress, $198; Gold twist earrings, $32; From The Art of Style

Dazzling Details

Standout details such as ruffles, bows, pleats and bell sleeves feel fun and feminine for the holidays. This navy dress wows with a peek-a-boo back and sleeves tied with bows.

Striped tunic, $154; Black skinny jeans, $179; Gold cuff, $34; Gold twist earrings, $32; Patent leather booties, $88; From The Art of Style
Clutch, $35; From Charming Charlie
On him: Corduroy shirt, $98; Belt, $58; Black jeans, $149; Boots, $275; From The Art of Style

Bold Shoulders

From off-the-shoulder to one-shoulder, collar-baring styles are here to stay. An asymmetrical hi-low hem mimics the neckline in a modern shape for this black and white tunic.

Lace dress, $54; Earrings, $24; From Pink Magnolia Boutique

All About the Burgundy

Darker and moodier than red, this chic shade works for men and women. Go bold with a corduroy button-up shirt or add a hint with a velvet clutch.

Knotted dress, $88; Collar necklace and earring set, $38; From The Art of Style
Embroidered clutch, $79; From Stella & Dot

Knot Me

An off-center knot updates a classic sheath dress that’s as comfortable in the office as it is at happy hour. Pair with edgier accessories, like this tasseled choker, for night, or a blazer for day.

Cocktail Recipes

Rusty Apple Toddy

Perfect to sip in front of the fire.

3 ounces hot apple juice or cider
1 ounce Drambuie
Juice of one lemon wedge

Combine ingredients and garnish with a cinnamon stick and an apple slice.

Brandy Alexander

If you aren’t a fan of eggnog, try this rich holiday indulgence.

2 ounces cognac
1 ounce heavy cream
¾ teaspoon Creme de Cacao

Shake ingredients over ice. Serve in a chilled cocktail glass and garnish with freshly grated nutmeg.

Holiday Sauce Cocktail

Colorful, fruity and reminiscent of Thanksgiving dinner.

1½  ounces Cognac
½  ounce lemon juice
1 heaping teaspoon cranberry sauce
3 dashes Sycophant Orange and Fig Bitters

Shake ingredients over ice and strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with orange peel.

More From Our Nov-Dec 2017 Issue

• Turkey All the Time
• A Christmas Tour
• Greater Good
• Lady Tulips Can Become Repeat Performers
• Visions of Sugarplums
• Cocktail Attire
• Before She Says Yes
• The Hope Center at Pullen
• Homemade for the Holidays
• The Santa Brotherhood