As we embark on our first week of December, it’s time to take a peek at what we’ll need to look our best for the holiday season! Luckily for us, the magical spirit of the holidays brings about some of the most luxurious fabrics and styles we see all year. It’s about velvet bustiers, and sweetheart necklines, and satin clutches, and lace dresses. We’ve seen some brilliant holiday outfits by top designers put out this season, but it has to be said, it’s the Italians that were at the top of their game! Here are a few key things to look for, featured by Italian fashion houses: Black SatinBlack satin makes for a beautiful dress. Italian fashion house Dolce &Gabbana designed two black satin dresses in their collection for the holidays this year. Both are entirely black satin dresses with ruching: but one favours a younger style with thin straps straight across the neckline. The other favours a more sophisticated look with thick straps and a rounded neckline. Solid Red Full red dresses are a way to bring out a bit more drama at a holiday party or gathering. Take in from Valentino, the legendary designer who is known for his red gowns, featured in The New Times in September of this year. This season he stays true to his style with a cap sleeved, V-neck, ruffle and bow solid red dress. BrocadeBrocade is one of the most luxurious fabrics on the market. It is a deeply ornate, woven fabric typically with metallic, gold or silver thread. It often looks as though it has been imprinted on. Italian fashion house Max Mara designed a gorgeous bronze brocade dress this season, with a floral pattern and paired it with a skinny belt. Accessories and AccentsHoliday dressing is all about being lavish. So if you have a simple colour dress, be sure to add sparkle and shine: whether it through a crystal flower in your hair, a sequin clutch, or pearl bobble shoes. Also, metallic colours make for a spectacular addition. Take a look at some of the great holiday dresses available this month to spark your imagination for how you want to shine this holiday season. That’s the fashion scoop for this week. Got a thought? Trend? Style you hate? Send it my way.