Laws of Couture: 'Tis the Season for Sequins

DKNY

What's a surefire sign the holidays are upon us? Sequins! They're just about everywhere from Forever 21 to designer boutiques. Sequins are not just for your holiday ornaments, they're also a must-have for your wardrobe this season! No longer just for clubs or fancy parties, sequins can now easily be dressed down or worn in the middle of the day. Jeans, jackets, leggings, scarves, and boots are all ways to add a more casual feel to the sequin. And the best part about wearing sequins is that you don’t need a lot of accessories because they add enough sparkle on their own. This season pull out the sequins and put a little sparkle in your step.

Sequins can make a major statement, but need to be worn cautiously. Yes, you want to sparkle and shine, but you definitely don't want to outdo the Christmas tree. To look your finest, follow a few of these festive style tips. They'll help you shimmer and shine in all the right ways this holiday season.

If you're going to bite the bullet and go for a dress covered in bling, from top to bottom, opt for one that a.) doesn't have an overly trendy silhouette, like a one-shouldered super-mini and b.) stick with one color (black, gold, and silver are all classically gorgeous) or a small color family that's complimentary. It's also important to remember when wearing a sequin dress that really stands out in a crowd to keep the rest of your outfit neutral. This will ensure your look is sophisticated and polished instead of slightly schizophrenic. For example, pair a sparkly frock with black tights and black shoes, and avoid wearing too much jewelry.

If you're more adventurous and feel like rocking a pair of sequin pants (which are very "in" right now, thanks to Phillip Lim), wear them with a neutral-toned high heel and a white, preppy, collared top. Other key neutrals to pair with sparkles include grey, navy and ivory.

DON'T: Get carried away with the glam factor. The easiest way to look like a 9-year-old Texas beauty queen is to pile on the sparkly eyeshadow, and accessorize with a metallic clutch and shoes. There is nothing subtle about body glitter, girls. Resist the urge to bedazzle!

DO: Create contrast. Pairing something uber-glam, like a sequined jacket, with something totally casual, like distressed jeans, is a totally modern way to do sparkle.

DO: Remember that less can be more. Sure, you want to shine this holiday season, but don't forget that there are plenty of subtle ways to do it. Here's a good rule of thumb: The more sequins you're wearing, the fewer the accessories. Keep it low-key with a neutral belt and shoes, and very little jewelry. If you're too shy to rock a larger sequin piece, like a dress or pants, stick to small touches, like shoes or a headband. Shop for a few great sequined accessories with a small price, but a big impact.

Wearing sequins is an easy way to get into the holiday spirit. While sequins can be tough to pull off this is the season to try them out. Below I have styled this festive material for three totally different occasions. From a subtle sparkly top to a sophisticated silver jacket to a pretty patterned dress — watch to see how you can incorporate sequins into our wardrobe!