On Thursday, your D.C. editor (that's me!) joined The Washington Post's Going Out Gurus to field your holiday fashion and beauty questions in real time. In case you missed it, you can catch the preview here and read the full transcript online, but here are a few excerpts that might come in handy for a last-minute holiday bash.
Q: "My friend is getting married on New Year’s Eve (late afternoon wedding in a church, dinner and dancing to follow), and all of my formalwear happens to be either summer-weight or black. I’m planning on buying a dress, and potentially shoes, too; the only part of the outfit I have figured out is my necklace, a pink-and-gold flower on a pearl strand. Do you have any suggestions for me?"
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A: "I just posted about winter weddings, so you might find some inspiration there! But if you don’t want to buy something new, you can definitely make a black dress work — a cream tuxedo jacket or a faux fur capelet over a simple black shift would look stunning. Add some metallic pumps and a fun clutch, and you’re all set."
Q: "I only have a week left to find shoes to go with my New Year’s Eve dress! The dress is covered in gold sequins. I never wear gold, so I have no idea what colors are a good match. Help!"
A: "Fun! I’d go with pumps or ankle boots in black patent, suede, or velvet, to create interest with texture. If you want to add color, incorporate a single jewel tone, like emerald green or deep purple — those deep, rich hues coordinate beautifully with gold. Just look in your jewelry box for proof! One more tip: Steer clear of anything metallic, unless you want to look like tinsel."
Photographed by Julia Lola Wang