The halls are decked, now it's time to dress yourself

By Marci Laehr

Monday, December 6, 2004 10:43 AM CST

We all do it. We can't help ourselves. We go out to buy holiday gifts for everyone else and can't resist buying things for ourselves too.

It's a dangerous mix: a few weeks full of celebrations and merrymaking that you want to look good at; the allure of shiny new clothes at the store; and the extra time spent at stores, supposedly buying gifts. It can lead to an explosive growth in credit card spending, or ECAS (empty checking account syndrome).

To prevent a dangerous overload of spending,: think accessories.

Accessories are what can turn a simple black suit into a stunning outfit for just about any holiday occasion. And there are plenty of fun, funky, traditional and outrageous bits and pieces to chose from. It's how you pull it all together that matters.

Here are four examples of how the same black suit (or just pieces of it) can be decorated with different accessories, while looking fabulous each time.

In the family For cozy family gatherings like going to Mom's and Dad's for Christmas Eve, settle on the floor in front of the tree in your black suit pants paired with a soft cotton ribbed turtleneck from Old Navy, like this one in bright green. Who wants to wear heels to open presents? Instead opt for comfort with a little elegance by wearing a matching pair of bright green satin ballet slippers with sequin detailing. For some holiday jazz, swing a large silver sequin bag from Old Navy over your shoulder. Not only is it cute, it's also big enough to carry home leftovers.

Total cost for the accessories: $51.50 ($19.50 for the turtleneck, $19.50 for the ballet slippers and $12.50 for the bag).

Office mix When heading to the holiday office party, mix flirty and sophisticated. Lounge with co-workers in a deep red, sleeveless blouse from TJ Maxx. The shimmering texture adds a bit of flair under your black suit. Anne Klein stilettos in dark burgundy patent leather give the outfit understated sex-appeal and work wonderfully with a Liz Claiborne burgundy velvet clutch, both from TJ Maxx. Finally, add a touch of flirt factor with an oversized brooch, like this fuchsia flower pin from Target.

Total cost for the accessories: $70.96 ($5.99 for the brooch, $39.99 for the shoes, $14.99 for the blouse and $9.99 for the purse).

Praise time Going to worship services is certainly not about what you wear, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't try to look wonderful. A few well-placed accessories on the same black suit might lift your spirit and put an extra boost in your hallelujah. Go for simple and elegant wear, like this cranberry-colored satin blouse with a johnny collar from Kohl's Department Store. It gives the perfect hint of color and shine under your suit jacket. Black heels with a patent leather bow and trim from Target are classy and sophisticated, especially paired with a burgundy leather handbag with a silver clasp. (No, there is not a rule that your shoes have to match your bag.) Trim the look off with an elegant gemstone brooch, like this rhinestone Christmas tree pin, and simple rhinestone studs, both from Kohl's.

Total cost for the accessories: $89.28 ($23.80 for the blouse, $21 for the handbag, $26.99 for the heels, $10.49 for the brooch, and $7 for the earrings).

On the town And when it's time to party, party with flair! For a holiday gala or a New Year's Eve bash, pair your black suit pants with a funky bold top, like this ruffled spaghetti strap blouse in fuchsia from Kohl's. Long chandelier earrings in black and silver from Target add glamour to your look. Add sparkle to your feet with silver and clear-vinyl heels with rhinestone details from Kohl's. Finish the look with a unique metal purse with iridescent gemstones from the Peacock Boutique.

Total cost for the accessories: $117.78 ($27.99 for the shoes, $23.80 for the blouse, $6.99 for the earrings, and $59 for the purse).

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