TBMD

Today I'm teaming up with Macy's and ShopStyle to feature a fun shopping guide for their Holiday Spotlight page. My theme is Cocktail Party Sparkle.

I immediately envisioned sequins, metallics, and diamonds when the word "sparkle" comes to mind. If there's one time out of the year to wear a sequined dress without standing out like a sore thumb, the holidays are it. It makes such a statement that I'd keep accessories to a minimum and/or toned down. If a sequined dress is too flashy, choosing the right accessories would certainly transform an outfit into one that is suitable for holiday festivities. A simple dress can be dressed up with a sparkly clutch and/or metallic heels and jewelry. For an even more subtle, but still sparkly look, I like options such as metallic lace and threading, "shiny" fabrics like satin, or colorful gemstones.

For me personally, I find that as I'm getting older, I'm preferring more of an understated look. I'm drawn to feminine lace, sparkly statement necklaces, trendy metallic heels, and also all-things in jewel tone colors. Below are my 10 favorite "sparkle" picks from Macy's for a cocktail party:

1. Charter Club crystal drama necklace ($54) / 2. Adrianna Papell sleeveless lace sheath dress ($179) / 3. Style&co. gold-tone green stone textured teardrop earrings ($16) / 4. Material Girl Vamm sandals $49.99) / 5. Michael Kors Collection limited edition nail gift set ($36) / 6. Tahari by ASL sleeveless beaded jacquard cutout dress ($148) / 7. Style&co. Gabriella sequins minaudiere clutch ($26.98) / 8. Material Girl tri-tone bangle bracelet set ($5.99) / 9. Ivanka Trump Blair shoulder clutch ($125) / 10. Adrienne Vittadini Canby pumps ($69.99)

Head on over to Macy's holiday spotlight page to see the rest of the items I picked out for my Cocktail Party Sparkle guide. Also, be sure to check out all the other holiday guides here!


Disclosure: This post is sponsored by Macy's and ShopStyle. All opinions are my own.

On a recent trip to the mall, SIL and I walked past a store with "Coming Soon" signs. I didn't pay much attention until she excitedly asked if I've heard of C. Wonder. I shook my head, but her excitement level was enough to warrant a second glance. Their coming soon billboard featured many items, ranging from clothing to accessories to home decor. What jumped out immediately were the bright colors and patterns (ie: ikat, monogram, stripes, anchors) that gave off a distinctive preppy vibe. Whoa, this is right up my alley were my first thoughts. I then took note of prices listed next to each item. Not bad and certainly in my range. I can see myself really liking this store.

SIL proceeded to tell me that the store was founded by Tory Burch's ex, Christopher Burch. It's supposed to be a rival for her label, but at more affordable price points, similar to designer collaborations at Target. Apparently New Yorkers (herself included, until recently) have been going nuts since the first store opened last year.

Since the "Coming Soon" signs didn't give a time estimate, I went home and hopped on Google. I was stoked to see that the store in my area will be opening this fall. In the meantime, there is an online shop. After browsing their site, I would say C. Wonder has less of a boho feel compared to Tory Burch. The coolest thing for me is that Christopher and I share the same initial, so their logo-ed items work double duty. Unfortunately there are no free shipping and returns so I'll be waiting until my store opens to try on clothing and check out quality in person.

Have you shopped at C. Wonder before? How would you compare their sizing and quality to other stores'?