Hi! I have a pink animal print dress for a Christmas dinner in December, however I’m not sure what shoes and jewelry to pair it with. Any suggestions?
~ Maureen
Greetings Maureen! Wow, you are already preparing for Christmas. That’s great! Christmas is a wonderful time of year to get together with friends and family. It’s also a time to PAR- TAY! Breakout the egg nog and the mistletoe.
I love that you are going to wear a vibrant party dress – pink animal print. That tells me you are all about fashion, style and having fun. Fashion is not about age. It’s about how you carry yourself and your style.
Now, I don’t know if this is a formal or laid back Christmas dinner. Is it for work, corporate event, or family oriented? Below are some ideas for any type of event.
Safe and Sound
Neutrals and basics are the safest when pairing with anything. Find black or nude pumps or strappy heels to complement your dress. Minimal jewelry in gold or silver hardware would work well with your dress. I didn’t picture earrings but I would adorn with studs. Short earrings would be fine. I would go the Safe and Sound route if this is a corporate Christmas Party or if you already own these pieces and not prefer to shop for new things. For a corporate event, make sure you wear a blazer to conservatize (I didn’t even know that was a word!) the animal print dress.
Complement Colors
With a statement dress like animal print, pick 1 to 2 jewelry pieces. Pick a necklace and earrings or earrings and a bangle. Or just wear a cocktail ring. This outfit is great for a gathering of friends and family. Don’t over do the jewelry because it’ll compete with your dress.
Outside the Box
If you want to wear an animal print dress, why not wear animal print shoes. I think Zebra print goes very well with an animal print dress. If you like this style, which is more fun and edgy, keep your jewelry very subtle. You want your outfit to maintain a sense of style. When you pile on jewelry, it will take attention away from your dress and shoes.
The most important detail in an outfit is how you carry yourself. Animal print is a power dress. If you feel uncomfortable or self conscious, find a different dress. If this animal print makes you want to conquer the world, then rock it.
Have a great dinner party!

Download my free 35-page eBook, 30 Looks: A Daily Dose of Style Inspiration, to shake up your wardrobe in the next 30 days.
Get inspired and have fun with your personal style, enter your Name and Email Address to download the book.