'Tis the season to impulse buy every shiny thing in sight...and instantly regret it. Sure, those ornament-inspired clothes look stunning in holiday window displays and make for a few photo-worthy party appearances, but how often can you really work a glittering bustier into your rotation to make it worth the splurge? Well, gripe no more: There are ways to extend the life of these one-hit-wonders — and no, it's not by wearing them in next year's Halloween costume (though we wouldn't knock it).Instead, we took five items that were born to be out all night, like embellished booties and megawatt skirts, and gave 'em a 9-to-5 spin. We partnered with Dolce & Gabbana Light Blue to tame the rager-ready styles with finishing touches that say "I'm put together," like understated color palettes, tailored silhouettes, and librarian specs. Not only is this neutralizing effect something you can apply to most of your going out attire, but it's a cure for your buyer's remorse, too. Best of all? You can make your slept-in party look HR-approved in mere minutes. Not bad for an impulse buy.
The Sparkling Bustier
So we're sure you're thinking, Yeah, right. But if you're up for trying something more daring, you can totally spruce up a basic cream blouse by layering a bustier over it. With dark work trousers and ankle-tie heels filling out the rest of your look, the bustier becomes more of a statement accessory than a top. Leave the button-up untucked and keep other accoutrements to a minimum to avoid giving off disco vibes.
The Embellished Bootie
Embellished ankle boots bring in a playfulness that nods to last night's shenanigans without literally reliving them. We recommend wearing them with a wide trouser or jumpsuit in a heavier fabric to tone it down a notch, with a turtleneck sweater layered on top. The grid-printed coat brings a polished silhouette to the look, while adding visual interest with its bold lines.
The Lace Pencil Skirt
Because lace accents are impossible to miss this time of year, you've probably scooped up a number of pieces in the fabric, like this deep-emerald pencil skirt. Since the silhouette is already in line with most of your workwear, setting it up for the office is a breeze. An almost-peplum blouse and patent leather T-straps will highlight the lace without making it feel party-ready. Add a sleek jacquard topper, stone drop earrings, and a spritz of refreshing fragrance to feel even more put together.
The Metallic Mini
If your office doesn't adhere to a strict dress code, a metallic A-line skirt is fair game. As it's on the shorter side, we recommend pairing the skirt with flat loafers, so it doesn't look like you're coming straight from the club (and if you are, your secret's safe with your shoes). A simple, striped turtleneck and dark-green cocoon coat help in toning down the loud skirt, and a complementary bag, like this sage number, strikes a color balance among all of the outfit's elements.
The Velvet Blazer
Velvet can be hard to resist during party season — and rightfully so, considering its soft texture and strong association with all things festive. But instead of springing for the scoop-neck dress of barhops past, opt for a piece in a go-to silhouette that offers the most wearability, like a blazer. It's an easy topper over most ensembles, especially a classic black-and-white collared dress and ankle boot. Add work-friendly color pops with a burnt-orange tote and blush frames.
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