New Year's ease

Greet 2012 with class and comfort! Uptown/Downtown gives you some tips on how to look effortlessly chic in no time!

Stretch material is a godsend for women of all shapes and sizes. A pair of loose black jersey pants is a must in every woman’s wardrobe. Pair them with a tunic blouse and some accessories and you are good to go from cocktails to dinner!

Wrap dresses (made famous by designer Diane Von Furstenberg) highlight the assets of an hourglass figure. Wear darker colors and smaller prints if you are going for a slimmer silhouette.

Shift dresses work well for the straight-figured woman and are very easy to put on and pair with accessories. Go easy on the jewelry when wearing heavily printed shifts.

It is always wise to be conscious of proportions. A petite lady would be aesthetically overwhelmed by a big bag. Opt for small clutches and handbags instead.

Animal prints work best with paired-down accessories. Just use one accent piece as the print already is a statement in itself.

Add colorful shawls to your wardrobe! They brighten up neutral colored clothes and come in handy when the weather gets cold.

Tunic blouses are perfect for women of any shape. Use chiffon and pastel colors for day wear and favor jewel colors for evening events.

No matter what you decide to put on to kick off 2012, wearing a smile and exuding confidence is a surefire way to look your best! Uptown/Downtown wishes all of its readers a peaceful and prosperous New Year!