Lifestyle

By Alyssa Cox, Christopher & Banks

Christmas is all about traditions; cherished moments spent with family, celebrating feelings of comfort and joy, giving to each other and giving back. Holiday trends are centered on remembering what the season is about.

Color is a magical element that evokes feelings in everyone. It can bring the warmth of familiarly, evoking memories of evenings spent with family and friends in front of the fragrant deep green pine tree twinkling with bright red, orange, blue, pink and purple lights. Pulling from a bowl of vintage ornaments in soft hues of smoky blues, sugary plums, violet mauves and sweet roses, while the soft white flakes of snow reflect silvery and blue in the streetlights outside. These are the colors of Christmas 2009.

Fair Isle Sweaters are a wonderful interpretation of the folkloric trend that began in fall and continues into the holiday season. The patterns are familiar with their rich history, but they also feel new again. They can be in a cardigan or in a vest, which are key silhouettes for the season, and look perfect with a pair of jeans.

Holiday Sweaters and Tees are a must-have, especially if they have a holiday theme and an added dash of whimsy.

Vests are a must-have this season and their versatility is great. Quilted woven vests are a sure bet for a fun casual look and reversible vests provide the option of wearing them two ways. Plaids are a key trend this season, and what better way to express the trend than a fun colorful vest? Sweater knits have a different look from wovens with their unique patterning and texture in jacquards, fair isles and embroideries. Vests can be worn casually with denim or khakis, or can be dressed up with a great pair of black pants. Vests are also a great way to experiment with color. Try layering a soft pink tee under a fuchsia quilted vest for an unexpected play on color; ours are perfectly coordinated to work together.