By Sarah Ellis
If you’re in a new relationship, the looming holidays may mean you’re a tad anxious about meeting “the family.” Naturally, you want to make a good impression, and while it’s what’s on the inside that counts, your appearance will speak for you before you even open your mouth. What you wear should certainly reflect your personal style, but try to move away from anything that’s terribly polarizing and stick with something simple and classic. That means no glitter or sequins, nothing too body-hugging, and nothing low cut or short. Those rules are pretty much a no-brainer, but not everyone keeps that in mind! You don’t have to go as far as a turtleneck and pearls, especially if that’s not “you” – but try to channel more Olivia Palermo … and less Kim Kardashian.
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Stick with structured and ladylike, instead of sexy and fitted. Olivia knows how to work the classic pieces while putting her outfit together in a modern way. She doesn’t look outdated or prudish; she looks fresh and modern – like she was personally outfitted by Ralph Lauren or J Crew. Here are some tips to help you achieve that look:
Tip 1: Choose great fitting basics. Find a color that flatters you. That might be a simple wrap dress, a great pair of boot cut jeans, or a tailored blouse. You’ll want the basics to be the foundation for the rest of your outfit.
Tip 2: Build with great accessories. This helps you look more polished and professional – and keeps you from looking too plain. Don’t overdo it. You want to look like you cared enough to carefully choose your outfit, but avoid looking like you’re trying too hard. You can wear multiple accessories, but choose one to be the focus. Maybe it’s a statement necklace, or a scarf (perfect for the holidays), or a great structured handbag.
Tip 3: Poke around and see if you can find out how his family normally dresses. You don’t want to show up in jeans to his family dinner if they typically wear skirts and dresses, and equally embarrassing would be to wear a fancy dress when his family is super casual.
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So, it’s not your appearance that will make them decide whether or not you’re a keeper, but it’ll ease your nerves as you meet his family and help with that first impression. Just like going to a job interview, you want to look qualified and pulled together. Look great, and you’ll feel great!
Author Bio: As a newlywed, I am fully versed in making impressions on new family members. While I may not be a professional stylist, I pride myself on choosing fashion that looks polished and classic, and I’m always helping friends choose their first date and meet the parents outfits. Although I’m a writer for Handbag Heaven by day, outside of work I take joy in being a matchmaker, a newlywed, and a momma to my precious puppy, Luna.
