If the thought of wearing your workday duds to the after-hours holiday party has you standing in front of your closet shaking in your slippers, pull yourself together and consider this little ensemble that's got some serious lasting power.  Silk trousers are a classically dressed-up choice that will be comfortable enough for all day wear, and a tapered leg means they can be paired with flats for day or an eye-catching heel for night.  Complete the look with a festive (and modest) top, an easy cream blazer and minimal jewelry.  Now, go easy on the eggnog, and try not to notice when Bill from accounting can't stop staring.  OK, that's from a movie or something.  Just go with it, people.
xoxo

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Sweet and Casual Friday

'Tis the season for sweaters, and this year, Old Navy has cozy covered.  Whether you're packing your bags for a winter getaway or simple planning your upcoming weekend, there's nothing more versatile and fun than a neutral crew-neck with a little owl pizzazz.  Create a casual Friday feel with wintery plaid, simple booties and a basic scarf, or go for all-out glam for a holiday party with a sequin mini and statement gold extras.  Finally, wrap up the weekend in laidback style by throwing your sweater over a tunic and leggings.  Which of these winter looks would you rather rock?
xoxo

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All-Out Glam Saturday Night

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Laidback Sunday

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This post is brought to you by Old Navy. Find your sweaters for the Holidays at Old Navy!
 
 
Because one holiday giveaway could never be enough, I'm teaming up with the fine folks over at Cult of Individuality to give two lucky winners the two cozy, comfy pairs of their choice!  Feeling the love yet?  Simply follow the steps below to enter.  Two winners (US residents only) will be randomly chosen and announced on Friday, December 21st.  Good luck!
xoxo
1. Follow Cult of Individuality on Pinterest here
2. Follow My Style Diaries on Pinterest here
3. Repin 2 product images from the My Style Diaries "Cult Classics" board onto your own "Holiday Wishlist" board
4. Share this post by clicking the "Tweet" and/or "Like" buttons below
5. Comment on this post with your name and email
 
 
It may sound strange, but a leather (or leather-like) shift dress is a closet staple that you'll probably wear more than you think.  For a simple daytime feel, pair it with easy ankle booties and a biker-inspired jacket, and finish the look with a luxe crossbody bag and edgy jewelry.  For a fun night-out look, throw on a dressed up jacket, look-at-me heels and statement jewels to transform this versatile mini.  Whether you scoop up this adorable version from Topshop (above), splurge on this (seriously drool-worthy) Rebecca Minkoff take, or any of the other options below, this eye-catching LBD will not disappoint.
xoxo

P.S. - Don't miss out on the Leona Collection Dress Giveaway!

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Shop Leather Dresses:

 
 
Dress: (c/o) Leona Collection; Cardigan: Banana Republic (Similar); Wedges: Kimchi Blue; Necklace: H&M; Bracelets: (c/o) Peppermint Chic; Watch: (c/o) Caravelle by Bulova; Sunglasses: Forever 21
The minute I laid eyes on this drop-waist Leona Collection frock (that I shortened to a minidress length), I knew it would be perfect for the upcoming holiday season.  Whether worn alone or paired with a black cardigan, it easily creates a fun and flirty party look.  Add a bit of sparkle with a fun necklace, stacked bangles and cap-toe wedges, and you're ready to dance the night away.  Need a jumpstart on your holiday wardrobe?  Leona is giving away this classic rose-print "Bardot" dress to one lucky reader!  Simply follow the rules below.  A winner will be chosen and announced on Monday, December 10th.  (US residents only.)  Good luck!
xoxo
Enter to win:
1. "Like" Leona on Facebook
here
2. Follow Leona on Twitter
here
3. "Like" My Style Diaries on Facebook
here
4. Share this post with friends by clicking the "Like" and/or "Tweet" buttons below
5. Comment on this post with your name and email



**Update: Congratulations to the winner: Rachel Beltz!  Thanks so much to everyone who entered! xo
 
 
It happens every year: that name on your holiday gift list that leaves you completely stumped.  Usually, it's the well-dressed friend who seems to have everything, so what do you buy without breaking the bank?  Think small and consider a well-thought-out piece of jewelry that reflects her personal style.  Whether you choose a bold statement, a timeless classic, or a personalized initial piece, above are a few options that are sure to please for $50 or less.  Happy shopping!
xoxo

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More great finds under $50:

 
 
If your idea of the perfect holiday frock is sparkle and sequin free, then perhaps this sporty meets sexy body-conscious mini dress is a bit more your speed.  Play up the paneled detailing with intricate platforms, and accessorize the hunter green and black look with sleek rose gold accents.  Finish with a luxe black leather clutch, and be prepared to turn a few heads this holiday season.
xoxo

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This holiday season, make spirits even brighter with a pair of look-at-me sequin leggings.  Tone down the over-the-top bottoms with a simple chic silk cami, a classic tuxedo-style blazer and a great pair of black patent pumps, an investment piece that will last for years to come.  A rose gold clutch and delicate jewelry provide the perfect finishing touches for a holiday party, fancy Girls' Night Out or a night on the town with your main squeeze.  Hope everyone had a great weekend!
xoxo

P.S. - Congratulations to the winner of the Cyber Monday $225 Giveaway - Ashley Williams! (@ashers_monet)  Please email Nikki@mystylediaries.com to claim your prize.  Thanks so much to everyone who entered, and stay tuned for more fun giveaways!

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Admittedly, I'm usually one of those people who overlooks Thanksgiving in favor of its much prettier sister holiday (Christmas, of course), but once Thanksgiving Day arrives, I'm always happily reminded of how blessed I am to be surrounded by such amazing family and friends.  This year I will be spending the holiday in California for the first time, and although I can't wait to see everyone back home in Louisiana next week, I'm so thankful to have a second family out here on the West Coast.  As far as clothing for Turkey Day goes, I've always found that pieces of the oversized variety are most appropriate, for obvious reasons, and this cashmere sweater dress from the Maison Martin Margiela for H&M collection does not disappoint.  Camel-toned extras (like these amazing boots, also pretty drool-worthy in red, here) and delicate gold jewelry add the perfect finishing touches for a comfortable and cozy, food-friendly look.  Wishing everyone a very happy Thanksgiving!
xoxo

P.S. - Don't forget to enter the Cyber Monday $225 Giveaway!

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This holiday season, don't be the schmoe showing up at every festive shindig empty-handed.  For easy hostess ideas, think of pieces that are great for entertaining like eye-catching tortoise bowls, stemless festive wine glasses or personalized party ware like a great cheese board or wine stopper.  Delicious treats are always a hit, or give your hostess a little something cozy for after the party is done.  A soft faux fur blanket or scarf will make a lasting impression, while luxe bath products make for a much-appreciated post-holiday wind-down.  At the end of the day, whether you stock up on your go-to choice of wine or want to think a little outside of the bottle, make your mama proud, and show your appreciation for the hostess with the mostest.  
xoxo

P.S. - Don't forget to enter the Cyber Monday $225 Giveaway!

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