Positively Inspiration  interviewed Pam Leelayuwapan , founder of The Bus Stop Shop,( an online boutique composed of fashions created exclusively by California designers) to learn some quick fashion tips for easy glamour.  During the holiday season’s hectic pace, women will be eager to select fool-proof pieces that are ideal for transitioning from day to evening- from the office to the soiree.

Pam suggests   three basic items: the fitted jacket, cropped pants and a clutch or small purse.  She explains the fitted jacket is practical by day and classic by night, and makes any outfit look polished and pulled together.  “Not to mention, you will warm too,” she affirms. Pam also recommends cropped pants for their versatility.  “Cropped pants can easily be dressed up from your day out and about.  And heels and a flattering fitted top, and you’re ready for the next event.  Make sure to keep your overall silhouette streamlined,” she notes.

The clutch or small purse makes an invaluable accessory particularly when rushing from one party to the next.  If you want to travel light but still carry your essentials with you, the clutch is ideal.  “Be sure to carry a small purse, or clutch with you in your day bag.  Only carry the essentials when you are dining, or drinking and forget the rest of the baggage from earlier in the day,” she points out.

Since some women tend to wear more jewelry for special events during the holidays, they will also need to consider the best universal colors to wear- to avoid the “overdone” look.  “Dark colors are your savior for letting your jewelry shine through the holidays.  Black is your safest bet and goes with any accessory that you wear, but you can also try wearing purple, teal or brown.  If red is the way you want to go, keep your accessories simple and let the outfit do all the work for you,” she notes.

With weight gain an issue during the holiday season certain styles are more flattering than others.  Most women tend to want to conceal any bulges in an attempt to achieve a slimmer silhouette.  “With all the dinner and cocktail parties you’ll be attending, it won’t be any surprise if you get a little holiday “bulge.”  You can still be and feel like you are fabulous by using the following tips when making outfit decisions,” she affirmed.  Pam offers some practical solutions to conceal the stomach area via the Empire waist: “An empire waist top or dress will bring attention to your neckline and away from your stomach.  Since the fabric drops from underneath your chest line, there is no need to worry about fabric clinging to unwanted areas,” she notes.

Patterns can be  a good choice for most women with problem areas.  “ Patterns are a perfect distracter from problem  areas.  Just remember to choose a top or dress with a fitted shape and dark background.  The dark background is slimming while the fitted shape will show off your body and not leave you looking like you’re wearing a crazy mu-mu,” she notes.

We all enjoy showing off our very favorite accessories and there is the tendency to get a bit carried away, so it’s important to be selective and to take a subtle approach.  “The holidays are a perfect time to wear your favorite necklace, earrings, bracelet, or rings.  Have those items shine and be the focal points of your outfit.  Although you want to draw attention to these items, remember that less is more and only wear a few pieces at a time,” she asserts.

Jack O‘Neal is a contributing writer for Fabulously40.com and an editor for http://www.womensonlinemagazine.com