You'll never guess what I did last week. No, I did not get collagen injections in my lips nor did I have those tiny little laugh lines around my eyes lasered (although that last idea is sounding more intriguing every year). And contrary to what you might have heard or read, I did not get engaged to Simon Baker (love those blue eyes…sigh!) But I digress. Anyhoo, I went on a cruise! I know, I know, I'm usually much more forthcoming about my much awaited and much anticipated vacation and travel events, but after bragging nonstop to all my friends, neighbors and anyone who would listen about going with my über-chic mentor/boss to London Fashion Week, and then getting left behind at the last minute to mind the shop because our office manager went into early labor, I decided that there was no way I was going to jinx this lovely possibility by a little too much premature jaw wagging. So I kept quiet until I was onboard the Radiance of the Seas and pulling away from the dock…then I sent a mass text to anyone and everyone I know (while I still had cell service).

Anyhoo, the cruise was unbelievable! Gorgeous weather, fabulous scenery (especially on the pool deck!) scrumptious food and lots of great sightseeing and water sports up and down the Baja peninsula. Needless to say I returned home tanned, rested, relaxed and best of all, I didn't gain a single pound! How is that possible, on a cruise, you might ask? Well darlings, I decided in advance that I was going to enjoy but not indulge. I ate fresh fruit for breakfast on the sundeck, a big salad and more fresh fruit for lunch on the pool deck, then a lovely meal each evening in the formal dining room. A little trick I learned from a couple of my dinner table mates (experienced cruisers) was to always order dessert, eat three bites, then shake salt on the rest to avoid the temptation of over indulgence. They swore this was the secret of successful cruising. Well, that and working out in the state-of-the-art gym they have onboard! And taking the stairs instead of the elevator. My calves are still burning…

Anyhoo, it was a wonderful little reward to myself and a great way to get ready for all of the upcoming holiday festivities! One of the best things about cruises is the opportunity to get all girlied up each evening — it's like every night is Saturday night! So I got some really fabulous ideas for great holiday party wear, which I am just dying to share with my best gal pals:

Edgy Chic

I absolutely adore this look for some of the more eclectic parties I might be attending this season (gallery parties, club parties, girl's night out, etc.) Start with a pair of distressed denim — my current fave is Denim of Virtue because they have so many options for distressed styles, from subtle to moderate to extreme, depending on your degree of daring. I'd choose either a skinny or a straight leg style, the better to show of a great pair of skyscrapers with my dear! Add a lightweight sweater with a splash of embellishment or perhaps a glittery metallic to juxtapose the distressed denim. Accessorize with a statement bracelet and a fun mini bag and you are set!

Girly Chic

Think ultra feminine, ultra girly. Ruffles and lace, silk and satin, with just a smidgen of sophistication thrown in. A short ruffled or tiered skirt, topped with a sheer blouse and tuxedo style jacket. A gorgeous woven braided necklace will add the perfect touch of class, and this shaker ring sweetens the look with a soupcon of sauciness. Finish with a pretty pair of peeptoe booties, an adorable clutch and it's time to party!

Casual Chic

This is a great look for casual get-together's, neighborhood open houses, etc. A gorgeous pair of indigo jeans is the perfect place to start — sleek, stylish and intensely flattering. Bump up the volume with an open-weave sweater layered over a cami. Add a pop of color with a wide leather belt and a great pair of boots, and complete the ensemble with a unique necklace.

Pulling Out All the Stops

This is the crème de la crème of holiday party style. The perfect opportunity for the perfect holiday LBD. Or not. I'm thinking color this holiday season (every girl and her mother will be wearing their LBD's after all). Or perhaps something delicate and pastel. Sheer shimmery hosiery with killer skyscrapers. Exquisite jewelry and an elegant handbag. This is the look of the season.

Well darlings, that should get you headed in the right direction for your festive holiday fashion needs. Happy shopping dears!

Ta ta darlings!

She She Me