Fete Fantastique

The Holidays often tend to creep up on us when we least expect it. One day you are going about your usual business and the next, you suddenly find yourself right smack in the middle of the frenzy. Before you know it, every hour is rush hour. And then you realize the urgent (read: panic) need to organize your ever-growing Christmas list.

The celebratory spirit of Yuletide becomes practically impossible to ignore especially as soon as dinner affairs, cocktails and parties fill up your calendar. Note, as well, that there are certainly quite a few that simply bring about — at the very least — a tinge of excitement and joy. While not everyone is a “jolly good fellow,” an event — especially at this time of the year — will surely have you rummaging in your wardrobe or rushing to your trusty couturier in search of that perfect Holiday ensemble.

Despite the austere and restrained temperament set by the collections launched for Autumn/Winter 2008 set by style vanguards like pragmatic label Jil Sander, propagator of minimalism Narciso Rodriguez and Giorgio Armani or the consistently directional Nicholas Ghesquiere for Balenciaga, a jovial vibe nonetheless permeates in fashion through color, texture, pattern and print. While past Holiday horror stories comprise of wrapping paper-inspired (often blindingly shiny and over the top) ensembles and dresses that you sincerely wish you had never laid eyes on in the first place (more so wear), it does not necessarily follow that all Holiday looks be memories of past that will cause a cringe. On the contrary, the Holiday collections out this year are created with the highest regard for bespoke and elegant aesthetics. With wearabilty and a strict compliance for sophistication at the fore, the pieces this season herald timeless flair, subtle sense of frivolity and luxurious romanticism.