After Hours

When we began shooting on location in the city for this month’s Christmas Countdown issue, I never thought how art played a key role in bringing our story to life. After all, 2016 has been truly an exciting year, with so much going on it feels very topsy-turvy at times. Why not ring in the new year with a very glamorous reveal! The evening edit is packed with a modern silhouette in timeless black to be worn after hours. For this occasion, this outfit will keep you looking chic long into the night.

I love getting ready to go out –I’ve often found that it’s better than the night itself. Any excuse to get the smoky eye palate of eyeshadows out and have fun with a fitted party dress, then I’m happy. I’m not too much of a planner; I wait and I see how I feel on that day. When you are called off to go to an event that requires you to dress up, it is always a joy to pick out something daring. This can result in a wonderful outfit choice, that will turn heads for all the right reasons. Don’t forget shoes, handbags, and accessories, they also play an important role in your artistic vision for the look of that eventful evening.

I really admire vintage clothes, and when I’m off to a party, I’ll incorporate something with some character. My ideal party dress is a 60’s body hugging dress with some mesh long sleeves for a sexy yet classy look. Sporting mesh black tights with this dress gives an edgy vibe, while still being Parisian chic. 

Your party shoes need to be comfortable to dance in; I love a Victorian style leather black ankle boot. These boots are a great twist on your typical high heels you see most people sporting with dresses. Good shoes definitely elevate a seductive dress. 

You need a bag that looks small but can hold tons of your stuff. It is important to bring makeup with you, a vibrant lipstick, mine is Ruby Rush by Tom Ford, and a compact to check if you ever need a touch up just in case. 

In these cooler temperatures falling each night, it is important that you wear a jacket. What kind do you wear over your dress? Try a leather biker! This beauty from Topshop is all leather and all fabulous! If you want to take your style from classy and content, to a rocker with some edge this is the perfect alternative to a bolero. 

There’s a thrill in trying something new. I love the idea that a dress has had a life before me, and that it will have a life tonight, too. The look on people’s faces will be that of envy, complementary, and simply shock in a good way. I don’t like being to safe when it comes to my outfit choices. I think if you don’t try something new then no versatility will exist in your wardrobe. 

Cocktail hour is growing near, after-dark drinks call for charismatic patterns, mesh and chandelier earrings that pack a punch. Go as bold as you dare and don’t look back. 

 Written by Heather Lisa Noire