By TINA M. WILSON
The Yule Log was on TV, had my cinnamon coffee, woke up in a good mood, was feeling thankful and reflective, and right on schedule…. it was Christmas Day. Christmas Eve I was invited to a small dinner party where we dined on sublime brisket and exchanged Secret Santa gifts under 10$. I got a Food Face dinner plate that was meant for me. The apartment was what I call a “Woody Allen”, you know one of those NYC pads with a real dining room, a massive table with leaves that seats 12, a kitchen where guests can mill about and there is room for multiple conversations. I was the only non-Jewish person in attendance which brings me to thankfulness, I am so happy I get to live and work in a town where diversity is a given. Not going to get all preachy on you, this blog is about New Year’s and what to wear, yet I can’t help but think I am able to do what I do because of the people that raised me and the people who have befriended me over the years. Thank You.
There are two camps on New Year’s Eve. The “Dress Up and Party” camp and the “Stay Home Comfy” camp. I used to belong to the former, I now reside with the latter. In my days of partying on New Year’s night my choice was often a bustier and a short black skirt. My winner for cleavage inducing top this year is LeMystere’s Sensuelle Bustier, it’s hot and season-less. I paired it with blindingly sparkly pants and a tuxedo jacket.
Hosting your own party? Dress up like you can’t decide if you’re sticking around or not. A neon colored silk and lace camisole from La Perla, an intricately beaded skirt, stilettos and a clutch, you never know when you might want to take the party out on the town and head to your local bar just before midnight. Party of two? I suggest Kiki de Montparnasse’s Ivory Coquette Bodysuit with anything in black velvet. Sexy Festive. Wear it, it will be on the floor before midnight.
If you’re really adventurous or insane as some might say and you plan on watching the ball drop and not from your sofa like me, then you must keep warm. A little cashmere never hurt anyone. P. Jamas has the loveliest bed jacket, its light and the perfect in between layer. Throw it on under your parka and jeans for a little extra warmth or rely on the warmth of strangers. You can keep it on in the morning when you’re nursing that hangover with a cup of coffee.
There is no shame in staying home alone. You get a head start on everyone else in reflecting on the year behind and the years ahead. Put on Marjolaine’s jumpsuit, curl up on the sofa with candles, photos, journals, self-help yourself books, cheese, foie gras, chocolate and bourbon. Make your list of desires and dreams. I don’t know about you but my list is very long and it mostly involves our country and the people in it and us being better than we were in 2017. It’s cliché but what doesn’t kill us will make us stronger and wiser. Happy New Year and thank you for reading, speaking up and staying woke….at least until midnight. Peace.
