The weather is getting brisk, the halls will soon be decked, and your social calendar is filling up faster than the champagne flutes at a designer trunk show. It’s official – the holiday season is upon us, which means there will be no shortage of tree-trimming fetes at which to carol and company Christmas soirees at which to schmooze. Why not get gorgeous for the occasion in one of the season’s most glamorous and surprisingly versatile party dresses?

Contemporary labels such as Sunner, Foley + Corrina, and Catherine Malandrino have made the task of dressing up for holiday festivities a trifle easier this year, offering up a melange of silhouettes, lengths, and fabrications that are worth celebrating. Not to mention colors that expand beyond the realm of Pantones 199M and 357M (read: green and red). Look for vibrant purples and teals, sunny yellows, and barely-there beiges. And don’t be afraid to mix lighter-colored frocks with black or brown tights. The distinct contrast is actually quite cohesive and lovely when paired together, and the addition of a sexy high heel will make the look even more fetching.

Of course the LBD is de rigueur when it comes to party frocks, and there are certainly a number of exquisite designs to choose from. Look for a dress style that will show off your best asset — if you’ve got great shoulders, go strapless, and if you’ve got legs to rival Tina Turner sport a mini frock that’ll turn heads. For a showstopping style trifecta add a bold dash of color to your black dress with an eye-catching cocktail ring or metallic clutch and pull your hair into a chic chignon.

Designers outdid themselves this season with sequins, beading, and embellishments that are fun and glamorous and even a bit ballsy. Take advantage of the season’s merriment and show up to the party sparkling and shimmering as bright as the ubiquitous holiday twinkling lights. Paired with sky-high heels and a bold red pout, this look begs to be noticed.

Whether your look is brassy and sexy or prim and ladylike, the party dress you choose should be a reflection of who you are. Skip the body-conscious mini frock if you’re used to wearing tea length robes, and if don’t like color then stick with the neutrals that you’re comfortable with. The only sartorial rules that apply this time of year are to be merry, be festive, and be fabulous!