I received an email asking for suggestions on what to wear to your first holiday office party. The email is from a first-year staff attorney at a large firm in Philadelphia and she’d like to make a good impression. While her colleagues are able to afford the latest in designer brands, her budget can only be stretched so far. I have a few suggestions, but I’d also like to hear from you. Post a comment or send an email to blog@dirtylawndry.com.

Here are my picks:

Calvin Klein Belted Ponte Dress $76.80

Donna Morgan Taffeta Dress $108.00

Throughout the year, we’ve seen peep toe shoes in all kinds of fabulous styles.  If you’re lucky enough to live in a locale that is warm all year long, then it is certainly okay to profile in your peep toes.  HOWEVER, it is not cool to wear peep toe boots in thirty degree weather.  Why am I still seeing exposed toes in December in the Northern and Northeastern parts of the United States?  Give it a rest.  Before you know it, Spring will be here and you can expose your pedicured piggies once again.  But, for now, cover them up.

One of the trends of the moment happens to be patent leather accessories. Think handbags, belts, and shoes. Some of you may think that it’s too flashy for the office or courtroom. But, when it’s done right, it looks fabulous. I witnessed it just this morning. Sure, I should have been paying more attention to the arbitration, but defense counsel was bringing the fierceness with a pair of black patent leather booties similar to the one below.

Phantasm by Promiscuous

The rest of her outfit was pretty blah….a lilac colored turtleneck paired with navy blue and purple striped slacks. But, the boots definitely transformed the outfit. I even found it in my heart to forgive her for wearing navy blue pants with black boots, which does nothing for you unless you’re a cop, security guard or transportation personnel. Anyway, if you’re yearning to spruce up your courtroom attire, try patent accessories. It’s definitely a head turner. See if any of the items below suit your taste. But, don’t overdo it. I don’t want to see any of you dirty boys and girls wearing patent belts, handbags, and shoes all at the same time. Tell me what you think and if you are the proud owner of a patent leather fashion accessory, submit a picture of it to blog@dirtylawndry.com.

Anne Michelle Zippered Booties $24.99

Betsy Johnson Ricci Ankle Boots $285.00

Dooney & Bourke Chiara Bag $345.00

City Style Pleated Bag $17.47

Sometimes the dress code for the legal industry can seem pretty boring.  But, it doesn’t have to be that way.  We can find a happy medium between the boring and the outrageous.  Check this page often for style updates and sales information.  No matter what your budget looks like, I’m sure you’ll find something to satisfy your inner fashion diva.