This year I'll be once again spending New Year's Eve in a rustic cabin in a wooded mountain area, and I couldn't be happier about it.  No crowds or uncomfortable dress to worry about; just good friends, champagne by a fireplace, and a chance of snow.  Perfection.  This is the kind of look that I'll be going for: soft skinnies, a loose sweater, boots and a cozy jacket.  Oh, and of course this faux fur muffler that I can't get enough of.  Hope everyone has a safe and happy New Year! 
xoxo

1. J Brand Low-Rise Twill Skinny Jeans in Riviera Blue $175
2. Quiksilver Beach Blanket Coat $168
3. Stacked Stones Ring $12
4. Chelsea Crew Taupe Suede Lace-Up Platform Ankle Boots $101
5. Topshop Speckle Panel Sweat Top $52
6. Tribal Triangle Necklace $15
7. Elle Satchel in Black $68

Whether you're still searching for that perfect (last minute) New Year's Eve dress or just want to spice up your bland wardrobe, try a sleek mini with chic leopard or feather detailing.  A color-blocked platform adds interest, while a bold, gold cuff and statement ring complete the look.  A simple black clutch trimmed in faux fur holds your big-night essentials and is the perfect accessory for your night out on the prowl.
xoxo

1. Miss Selfridge Feather One Shoulder Dress $90
2. RJ Graziano Polished Gold Cuff $65
3. Noir Jewelry Critter Ring $55
4. Topshop Black Metal Bar Insert Clutch $76
5. Tone of a Kind Heel $40
6. Dorothy Perkins Leopard Puff Sleeve Dress $39

If you're craving a festive New Year's Eve ensemble but sequins aren't your style, try a simple shift dress with a metallic foiled finish.  Rose gold shoes and jewelry play well with the silver sheen, and a mirrored clutch finishes the mixed metals look.  Add a well-tailored coat, and you're ready for a stylish and chic New Year's Eve.
xoxo

1. Topshop Foiled Shift Dress $76
2. Bita Pourtavoosi Rose Gold Pyramid Double Ring $75
3. ASOS Oversized Mirror Hardcase $82
4. BCBGeneration Armed For Party Rose Gold Hinged Bracelet $45
5. Qupid Drama Rose Gold Metallic Platform Sandal $32
6. Faux Fur Collar Trench Coat $95

There was a particular Shirley Temple VHS tape on constant repeat in my VCR when I was younger, and in said movie, the young star warmed her hands in a beautiful white faux fur muff.  I was obsessed.  Fast forward to the 90s and a particular episode of Clueless (remember the TV show, anyone?) in which Cher starts a school frenzy over her muff creations.  The obsession continued.  When I recently saw this burgundy version from ASOS (arriving on my doorstep tomorrow), I knew I had to have it.  Paired with preppy trousers, a simple sweater, wedged tassel loafers and a floral scarf, the color and chain-strap detail are pure perfection.  Impractical?  Perhaps.  Do I care?  Nope.
xoxo

1. Madewell Colorwheel Trousers $125

2. Madewell Hideaway Sweater $60

3. Natalie B Tibet Bone Circle Ring $77

4. Angeles Lola Tassel Tan Platform Wedge Loafers $55

5. Topshop Faded Floral Scarf $36

6. ASOS Faux Fur Muffler $23

Dear Diary,
This year for New Year's Eve I'm attending a huge party in Los Angeles complete with a few performances by different DJ's.  I know that a lot of girls will be wearing the typical LA New Year's dresses, but I want something different.  I really want a look that is a little edgy and rock-inspired, and something that I will be comfortable in all night.  Any ideas?
- Meghan

Dear Meghan,
Inspired by Kate Hudson's lovable Penny Lane portrayal in Almost Famous, today's look is A Rockin' New Year's Eve.  These sequin shorts are fun and festive enough for the occasion, but the vintage-inspired tee, edgy jewelry and suede platforms add a perfect rock vibe to your look.  I love the idea of wearing an eye-catching rock star faux fur jacket (a la Penny Lane, of course) as both a stylish statement and insurance that you'll be warmer than anyone else at the party.  Finish the look with a metallic clutch and prepare to dance the night away.  Cheers!
xoxo

1. Chaser Addicted to Love Destroyed Tee $49
2. Stayin' Alive Bronze Sequin Shorts $40
3. Animal Short Faux Fur Coat $85
4. Jeffrey Campbell 4 Evz Platform in Dark Green $130
5. ASOS Articulated Arrow Necklace $18
6. Wildfox Gold Double Finger Ring $76
7. Sweet Bella Shimmer Leather Large Pouch $64

Dear Diary,
New Year's Eve is right around the corner, and I'm looking for something fun and different!  What are some suggestions to really jazz it up to ring in the new year?
- Stephanie

Dear Stephanie,
There's no better time than New Year's Eve to really let loose and experiment with pieces that you normally wouldn't try.  Whether you're craving a little Hollywood glamour, a rock-inspired look or something more low-key, we've got you covered.  We'll be showing a few different NYE looks in the coming days to satisfy a variety of tastes and big night plans.  Today's look is All Out Glamour because hey, when else can you rock a full sequin dress?  Keep the rest of your look basic with minimal jewelry and black accessories.  Play up eyes with a silver shimmer and high volume lash combo, and finish the look with a sleek silver manicure.  Cheers to a great night!
xoxo

1. Blaque Label Sequin Mini Dress in Blue $100
2. Ynez Ring $60
3. ASOS Stamped Leather Fetish Clutch $45
4. Vince Camuto Jamma Pump in Black $130
5. Nars Night Series Eyeshadow $23
6. Nars Glitter Pencil in Roxbury $24
7. Nars Larger Than Life Volumizing Mascara $25
8. Nars Blush Bronzer Cheek Trio $55
9. Nars Lip Gloss in Striptease $24
10. Nars Nail Polish in Space Odyssey $17

Dear Diary,
Can a simple beige pencil peplum dress be worn as office wear?
- @priyasdomain, via Twitter

Dear Priya,
Absolutely! A peplum dress like the goldish-brown one above is basically an embellished shift dress and can be perfect for an office environment.  Just be sure to consider the neckline and hemline - avoid anything low-cut or too short.  For an added professional touch, try a cropped blazer that hits right above the peplum detail.  Complete the look with bright pumps, a leather portfolio and minimal mixed metal jewelry.  Hope this helps!
xoxo

P.S. - Don't forget to enter our StyleMint Gift Card Giveaway here!

1. Dorothy Perkins Gold Peplum Herringbone Dress $55

2. Dorothy Perkins Khaki 3/4 Sleeve Cropped Blazer $35

3. House of Harlow 1960 Gold-Plated Key Cocktail Ring $45

4. Vince Camuto Jorgie Platform in Teal Combo $130

5. House of Harlow 1960 Five Stack Ring in Multi $70

6. ASOS Croc Embossed Leather Portfolio Clutch $109

If you're still running around town looking for those last minute gifts, there's no better time than now to check out StyleMint. (That is, if you're not already obsessed with the wildly popular, uber soft and cozy t-shirt and cashmere line designed by none other than the Olsen sisters themselves.)  Now through December 24th, buy gift cards (which are immediately and conveniently emailed to you) for friends and family, and receive discounts or free StyleMint credits for yourself.  What's even better?  We're giving away a StyleMint credit to one lucky reader!  Whether you spend it on yourself or on a loved one is between you and, well, you.  See below for rules.

To enter to win 1 StyleMint credit (worth $29.99):
1. Share this post with friends by clicking the "Like" and/or "Tweet" buttons below.
2. Leave a comment with your name and email below.

That's it! A winner will be announced on Friday, December 23rd.  Good luck!
xoxo

So your plans to finish up all of your holiday shopping early this year and avoid the usual procrastination didn't quite work out?  Relax, we've got you covered.  If you're still looking to take care of the guys on your list, check out the totally-manageable male-friendly gifts above.  From cozy knits and a plaid jacket to luxe accessories and grooming products, these gifts aim to please, and with only five more days until Christmas, there's no time like the present to wrap up that shopping list (well, literally) and give yourself some holiday peace of mind.
xoxo