Last year for Threadbanger I posted on Holiday style by way of Vintage Style Inspirations, and just this week at my own blog I wrote about my current Brothers Grimm obsession and how it's informing my wardrobe THIS season (think lots of velvet and winter florals). While you'd think - at this point - that I'd have nothing left to say on the subject, the opposite couldn't be more true! I love getting dressed up in cold weather (if only because you get to wear SO MANY CLOTHES AT ONCE), and here are some early Winter trends - all easily thrifted or DIY-ed - to get you headed in that direction as well.

 

 

Velvet is big on the radar this season for men AND women (as seen in full formal mode above, on the Fall 08 Ralph Lauren runway), and your local thrift stores are swimming in it. It's one of those materials that, when it's not in style, reads a little OLD, and people's predilection towards casting it off is your secondhand score. Be on the lookout for dark colors and impactful jewel tones, and ladies, keep your eyes peeled for the ultimate Holiday '08 item - the velvet Winter floral. Gorgeous!

 

Eye-catching tights have definitely carried over from Fall - they're still a key apparel piece and there are endless ways to rock this trend. If you're in the market for a new pair you can't go wrong with lace or metallics - they're both runway-approved and a great way to add punch to your basic skirts and dresses. And if you're NOT in the mood to shell out for new stuff you can always deconstruct a pair you've already got in your closet - see the above photo from The Sartorialist and Geri Hirsch's Threadbanger Blog post for inspiration.

 

Jewelry-layering is still having its heyday, so don't be afraid to pile on the rings, bracelets, necklaces and watches. To get all stoked for decorating YOURSELF like a Christmas tree, please refer to the above chandelier by Floto + Warner (via Refinery 29). It looks like a million bucks and is made almost entirely of thrifted jewelry - inspiring, no? What trends are you feeling this Holiday season, and what will you be wearing out and about to parties?