December is always such a busy, fun and stylish month. It’s the best time of year to pull out all the stops and experiment with the looks you’ve been putting off. December is also a wonderful opportunity to spend a little extra time getting ready for the special events that are booking up your social calendar. Here are some ideas to inspire for the upcoming parties, galas and soirees.

Vivacious in Velvet
Velvet has come back on the scene with a vengeance as of late, and it doesn’t look like it’s going anywhere anytime soon. Velvet is perfect for Central Florida because while it can keep you warm, it also can be found in various lengths, styles and colors, which all provide different style options. Velvet jumpsuits, which can be found on websites such as fashionnova.com or target.com, are stylish and comfortable. Keep the rest of your look simple with a nude lip and a sleek high ponytail to finish off this look. If jumpsuits are not your forté, keep it simple with a velvet blazer, which can be found at zara.com, and pair it with a plain blouse and leggings. Throw on your favorite pair of pumps and an embellished clutch to be out the door looking chic. Finally, a dress will always steal the show when it comes to velvet. Velvet dresses were meant for black tights, and vice versa, so there’s no need to worry if the temperature happens to drop – you and your legs are covered!

Chip Off the Shoulder
Cold shoulder tops and sweaters had a huge moment this past year. They are still on trend, but off-the-shoulder tops are subtly sexy and can still work for us Floridians due to our climate. The key to shopping for an off-the-shoulder top, especially around the holidays, is to go up a size. Yes, it’s true. Going up a size in an off-the-shoulder top gives you wiggle room for styling. This way, doing everyday things such as typing, picking up your coffee, or opening a door doesn’t become extra difficult.

Oversized Sweaters
Oversized sweaters could quite possibly be one of the coziest style options out there. Think about it: They come in all colors and materials, and there’s no need to worry if you ate a little too much at your last holiday party – because they are not restricting in the least bit. They also are versatile, as oversized sweatshirts look great paired with jeans, leggings, sneakers, boots or pumps. The possibilities are endless!

Red Lip or Bust
Heading into the holiday season brings a few more occasions than normal to rock a red lip. A few new ones have hit the market, so allow me to share. If you prefer a matte lip (not shiny), then the NARS Velvet Matte Lipstick Pencil in Dragon Girl is perfect, www.nars.com, $27. This product glides on smoothly and is long wearing. Looking to give gloss a shot? The Fenty Beauty by Rihanna Liquid Lipstick in Stunna is hot off the press and selling off the shelves. This red lip is guaranteed to stay on while you eat, drink and dance the night away. It can be found at www.fentybeauty.com or www.sephora.com.