Holiday Outfit Guide: Formal on a Budget!!

Do you have a formal event to go to this holiday season??  Maybe your family's Christmas gathering is formal, you might have plans to see a holiday musical or play, or maybe you have a dressy Hanukkah dinner to attend. 

As you probably know, keeping a formal outfit inexpensive is extremely difficult.  If you have multiple formal events to attend, your outfits can really add up because you probably won't want to wear the same outfit to every function.  Also, if you're on a tight budget right now, even a single formal outfit can be stressful... You have to buy the dress, the jewelry, the shoes... Frustrating, right?? 

It was for these reasons that the first holiday layout I chose to do was an affordable formal look.  I love this look because it's so girly and feminine, yet the faux fur shrug and pearl jewelry make it classic and beautiful.  Think Audrey Hepburn or Grace Kelly... Very elegant, with just a few pieces of classic jewelry.

It's conservative enough for the environment of most formal events (religious functions, family gatherings, etc.) but it definitely has some sexy little details... Crystals on the bodice, the tiny straps (if you wanted to show them), and the elegant ballerina-like neckline sets the stage for a beautiful necklace and earrings.

Peoria Black Party Dress - $57 at Lulu's (Click HERE)

Faux Fur Shrug With Brooch - $36.50 at Charlotte Russe (Click HERE)

Paris Hilton Black Patent "Missy" Heels - $78.95 at Zappos (Click HERE)

Sondra Roberts "Taupe" Evening Bag - $88 at Lori's Shoes (Click HERE) 

Rhinestone Bow Earrings - $4.80 at Forever 21 (Click HERE)

Classic Two-Layer Pearl Necklace - $8.80 at Forever 21 (Click HERE)

Flower and Pearl Ring - $4.80 at Forever 21 (Click HERE)

I would add some sheer black pantyhose, and as for hair I would loosely curl my hair all over, then do a slightly-messy updo with little pieces falling down to make sure the outfit doesn't look too prim and proper...

I love the look of Hilary Duff's updo... She wears it off to the side 
and low, with lots of pieces pulled out to create that "undone" feel.

This is probably my most favorite hair look for this outfit... It reminds me 
of an elegant ballerina bun.  I love how soft and delicate the loose curls look. 

I hope you enjoyed this look!!  Happy Wednesday!!!

Xoxo B.