Here are the basics I stick to:

First I try to consider my body type. After two kids I’m simply not full on top so strapless dresses and I would fight all night. However, I’ve worked for my Michelle Obama arms so I would like to show them off.  I’m petite, I have some curves and I want to find a dress that will compliment them.

Secondly I want to find something trendy but comfortable. The trends are one shoulder strap dresses, embellished dresses and color. I’m a classic style type person so I like solid colors and I will not depend on too many accessories.

Finally I have a budget. Around this time of year there are lots of sales so I wait to see if I get a flyer for discounts at my favorite stores.

My favorite stores to look for holiday dresses are BCBGMaxAzria, Banana Republic, Ann Taylor, White House Black Market, French Connection and Cache. After searching through all the options I fell in love with these two. I love the upper left one from BCBG because it’s very different and not many women would go for pink for a holiday dress. I would pull my hair up, wear some diamond studs and a sparkly bracelet. The dress to the right is from French Connection. It’s a very classic dress and it also has my name all over it.