Holiday Accessories: Evening Bags and Statement Jewelry

Holiday Accessories: Evening Bags and Statement Jewelry

The finishing touches are where holiday dressing gets personal, from the shoe you choose to the earrings you put on last. This season leans toward crystal, velvet and gold, all used to turn a simple outfit into an occasion. This edit gathers the shoes, bags and jewelry that do exactly that.

Pumps and Mules With Polish

Slingbacks and mules are the shapes of the season, finished in velvet, patent and croc. Embellishment sits on the toe or buckle rather than everywhere. Each one turns a simple black outfit into something festive.

More Heels to Finish the Look

Floral appliqué, embroidery and a little shearling are making familiar pumps feel new. A mirrored or metallic finish works like jewelry for the feet. Choose a heel height you can wear all night.

Strappy Sandals for Party Season

The strappy sandal is staying in rotation through winter, worn with tights or bare legs. Platforms, crystals and mother-of-pearl are giving it a festive finish. It is the shoe that flatters a long dress most.

The Season's Clutches

The clutch is back as the defining evening bag, in suede, satin and croc. Its appeal is its simplicity, since it holds the essentials and nothing more. One good clutch can carry every invitation this season.

More Clutches and Mini Bags

Embellished pouches and vanity bags offer a playful alternative to the classic clutch. Crystal, beading and leopard-print calf hair keep things lively. These are pieces that feel like a treat to carry.

Still More Evening Bags

Velvet top handles and sculptural clutches show how much design can fit into a small bag. Houndstooth and croc-effect suede bring a little wit. Mix textures with your outfit for the most interesting result.

Even More Bags for the Holidays

Novelty clutches shaped like martini glasses and baskets of roses are this season's most charming collectibles. They are also the easiest conversation starters at a crowded party. Choose the one that makes you smile.

Jewelry That Finishes Everything

Gold chokers, diamond pendants and pearl strands are the jewelry of the season. They are designed to be layered, so mixing pieces feels natural. Pick one statement and build around it.

More Fine Jewelry

Cuffs, lockets and sculptural rings are bringing personality to fine jewelry. Enamel and colored stones add a playful touch. These pieces work with a sweater as easily as a gown.

Still More Jewels

Charm bracelets, signet rings and drop earrings have become the most personal way to wear gold. Stacking several small pieces feels modern and relaxed. A watch on a leather strap adds a quietly classic note.

The Last of the Jewelry

Rose gold and turquoise bring warmth to winter dressing. Tennis necklaces and beaded strands are the quieter options. These are pieces to wear long after the holidays end.

Small Surprises to Finish

Chain belts, crystal sunglasses and a chainmail beanie are the unexpected details that make an outfit memorable. They take seconds to add and change the whole look. Try one with an otherwise simple dress.

The Last Detail

The finishing touch is often what people remember about an outfit. A great shoe, a small bag and one piece of jewelry will cover nearly every invitation. The rest is up to you.