“Shiny New Objects”

There is light at the end of the tunnel and reason to rejoice. Still, we could all use a symbolic “shot in the arm” when it comes to getting into a festive mood. There’s no reason not to celebrate the season, even (or especially) if you’re lazying at home.

One obvious and effective way to do so is by adding a touch of glitter and shine. Look at how life-affirming the department store’s holiday windows are. The most modern way to wear sequins, crystals, and metallics is toning them down and making them less precious and laid-back. It’s all about the mix.

Separates with a sporty, loungey feel work best, but dresses and jumpsuits can have the same sense of ease. I previously cited Junya Watanabe’s sparkly spring 2021 show, which was exemplary, but Watanabe’s designs won’t be available for months. And they will be pricey.

I scoured the market and found some fun pieces priced from $15 – $626. You can wear them at home now, accessorized with thick socks, leggings, ballerinas, clogs, crocs, and slippers. In the future, when we can go out, they can be dressed up in heels. Zara’s Sparkly Knotted Dress features a lapel collar, deep v- neckline, long sleeves with pleated cuffs, and front knot detail. Priced at $69.90, the dress has the ease of a shirt. It’s available at zara.com.

Zara’s Limited Edition Sparkly Top has long asymmetrical ruched sleeves. Paired with the matching High Waist Wrap Front Pants, it looks like a cross between a pajama and a jumpsuit. The top is $49.90, and the pants are $69.90. Both are available at zara.com.

Zara’s Black Sequin Pants have a high waist, side pockets, and slit hems. It is shown here with Zara’s Limited Edition Oversized Cropped Blazer with a black satin lapel. A crisp white shirt or black turtleneck sweater would work as well. The pants are $69.90, and the blazer is $119. Both work well on their own and are available at zara.com.

Tatiana’s dazzling Sequined Midi Skirt features all-over silver sequins and a playful fringe. The chunky Ramona cable-knit v neck sweater provides a cozy counterpoint. The skirt sells for $198, and the sweater is on sale for $79.95. Both are available at anthropologie.com.

Calliope’s Midi Dress in matte gold sequins, with an elasticized shoulder, is statement-making yet relaxed and comfortable, almost a nightdress. It will only set you back $188 and is for sale at anthropologie.com.

Maybe you prefer relaxing in something plain, comfy, and utilitarian, like Rivet Utility’s $395 Bigwig Black Corduroy Jumpsuit. The color and simplicity make it a perfect foil for a statement pin.

One of the best I’ve seen is Butler & Wilson’s iconic crystal lizard brooch. It is articulated, has ruby-red eyes, and measures about 10 inches long. They are very rare. This one is currently on ebay.com, priced at $174.

Adding a festive slipper is another way to enliven a simple dark outfit. For the price, you can’t beat Alotta Knits Women’s Sequined Ballerina Slippers with Sherpa Fleece Lining. They are available in pink, blue, gold and silver but I love the emerald green. This color gets a lot of attention after Bottega Veneta’s Daniel Lee’s endorsed the hue for his recent spring 2021 collection. The slippers are priced at $15.44 and for sale at amazon.com.

Gold is always a good idea. Sies Marjan’s glossy Metallic Shirt has a curved hemline, relaxed fit, and a pajama-y vibe. It is reduced from $895 to $626 and for sale at mytheresa.com.

Sander Lak founded Sies Marjan in 2016, and it quickly became a fashion favorite owing to Sander’s generous use of color and exceptional outerwear. It was a company that showed so much promise. Sadly, like too many others, they were forced to close their business about six months ago due to the trying financial conditions created by Covid-19. Let’s all hope and pray for a better 2021!

1. 

   Marilyn! What a wonderful and informative article you have written. I so loved Bendels, although (in my opinion) it was…

2. 

   Merci beaucoup for the article!

3. 

   Thank you for featuring me and my designs in your article! What a lovely event and how many gorgeous ensembles!

4. 

   How interesting! Bendel’s was always a favorite store of mine. Miss those days…Thanks for another great article.

5. 

   Such a LOSS! I feel Bendels was to NY what Venice is to Italy.