I swear Tim Gunn was right there with me!

[lendube]

Not really but jeez, it sure felt like it. I watch his "Guide to Style" and "Project Runway" and have learned from both shows.

Well tonight is the Fire Dept. holiday party and I splurged. As many know, I live in a very casual town where Cabela's and L.L. Bean rule. Ladies show up to this party each year (which is held in a gorgeous, expensive Inn/B&B) in anything from jeans and sweater to formals. It's quite a mix. I need to be somewhere in the middle so everyone feels comfortable. Usually I've worn black pants with a pretty, dressy top and lower heels.

This year I wasn't going to buy anything special but I have two other parties, thankfully each different groups of people, to go to so I thought I could justify spending a bit of money.

I found the most gorgeous deep red silk lace top. I seldom LOVE something I buy but I LOVE this top. I also bought classic black dress pants (that only need to be hemmed about 8 inches!) and a classic black pencil skirt. While selecting these items I could almost hear Tim Gunn at my side telling me that this would work, this wouldn't work. I feel quite confident that what I bought makes me look as good as I can. Btw, anyone else have a Steinmart in their area? Great clothes.

Now I'm off to dy........I mean shampoo my hair.....

[ddreev]

I know what you mean about falling in love with something. Every once in awhile that happens to me.
You will look great at your parties. You can't beat a classic red and black combination at this time of year.

[esrun3]

Have fun Lennie...you've been through so much this year you deserve to splurge a little on yourself!!

[Glennssister]

Linnie, The outfit sounds beautiful. Have loads of fun with your Knight in firefighters shinning armor.

[MartySews2]

Love red and black especially for the holidays. Be sure to post pics of you wearing the top.
Marty

[bridesmom]

Sounds gorgeous. It always helps when you fall in love with something like your top because then you feel so darn good in it, and it shows when you wear it. Flaunt it with pride girl!

[Jeke]

Lennie,

We need a picture!! Sounds perfect.

[lendube]

It was a wonderful evening. I really enjoy those parties. There are so many on the dept. that I've known as long as I've known dh and it's fun to see folks dressed up and enjoying themselves.

I felt like I looked good and that's a good feeling. We took no pictures but others did. We'll have to see what develops.

Thanks for your kind words. Tonight's another party at a lovely couple's lovely house. I swear this sweet lady is Martha Stewart's NICE sister. Everything is perfect all of the time. I believe she has an entire room devoted to storing her holiday decorations!

There might be some of the same people so for me a different outfit. I have my black dressy pants and a black and blue design wrap velvet top. Looking forward to the evening.

[Magot]

Go girl - I hope there was underwear to match....

[MartySews2]

I love holiday parties but the only one I'm going to this year is that for our ASG chapter. Last year I didn't get to do anything for the holidays so I'm thankful for this one. I'm wearing a black velour skirt, red sweater and gold, red & black corduroy jacket for that. Hopefully, the skirt will stay up since I've lost so much weight.
Marty