Sassy going-out dress, tick; dancing shoes, tick; glitzy clutch, tick! Undoubtedly by now you have your party looks sorted for the onslaught of festive frolicking that’s about to begin (if it hasn’t already) with all manner of sequin and sparkle at the ready. That’s all well and good but what about the rest of the holiday season and into the New Year? For one thing, the weather is darn cold. So you need to be prepared. I’ve created my top three Christmas essentials to see you stylishly through whatever this month brings.

The LBD

The perfect little black dress, or LBD, is sophisticated and simple. It’s an absolute lifesaver at this time of year at times when you’re unsure what the dress code might be and don’t want to overdue it by going all glitzy but don’t want to risk turning up dressed too casual. The latest collection from Esprit, who have once again drafted in Brazilian modeling powerhouse Gisele Bündchen to front the campaign, includes two rather simple but very chic LBDs. There’s a mix of fabrics including the silhouette sculpting velvet dress (€119.95) and a stunning sleeveless lace detail one (€79.95). Both are quite timeless in cut and a welcome addition to any stylish wardrobe. At Awear the ‘Cameron’ brocade dress with embellish detailing on the shoulder is a great going out number. The best part, a classic LDB allows you to tailor your look for different outings through your choice of accessories meaning it has life far beyond current trends. A win-win and money well spent. This winter tick two trend boxes and team yours with some fun polka dot tights and some killer ankle booties.

Kimono Tops

If there’s one piece that’s versatile, super stylish and perfect for laid back casual outings with the girls this winter, it’s the kimono top. Most of highstreet stores including Penneys, H&M and River Island have hopped all over on this trend. My top pick is a teal coloured kimono jacket from Awear. The floral pattern is the perfect injection of colour for this time of year. And surprisingly it looks pretty awesome teamed with a sequin top, sweet!

Winter Boots

The snow is coming, they’re not sure when, but it is. If last winter you froze your tootsies off by not having the appropriate footwear or worse fell flat on your ass, then you’ll want to take note. Sorel has attracted a celebrity fan base including Elle Macpherson, Demi Moore (poor Demi) and Jessica Simpson for managing to combine all-weather protection with a touch of glam. The Tofino with its red lightweight quilted upper and stylish faux fur collar is a personal favourite. Inside they are lined with a Sherpa fleece for comfort and warmth. The molded rubber sole provides traction for the best possible grip on slippery icy surfaces to help keep you upright.

There you have it. If anything you can add these to your pressie wishlist. Wishing you all a fab and stylish Christmas!

Former Miss Ireland Sarah Morrissey has gone on to forge a career as one of Ireland’s most successful, not to mention liked, top models. Featuring in all the major fashion shows each season, Sarah is highly respected both on and off the catwalk. With her down-to-earth personality, great work ethic and of course stunning looks, we thought she’s just our type of gal! We caught up with the gorgeous Dubliner to talk all things fashion.

Describe your style in five words?
Comfortable, Boho, Classic, Black, Simple

What’s your beauty essential?
Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream

What item could you not live without?
Mac Eyebrow Pencil.. (I’m obsessed with people’s eyebrows)

If your house was on fire and you’d only time to save one thing, what would it be?
Christian Louboutain Shoes and Cream Burberry Mac (I’m Greedy:-)

Most desired fashion item at the moment?
Probably a Victoria Beckham Dress.. I wore her new collection for a show recently and they are pretty amazing and do wonders for the body. But this is a wish:-)

Best style tip?
Less is more

What’s in your handbag right now?
I only have big bags so there’s a lot in it. Wallet, Glasses, Keys, Ipod, Chewing Gum, Perfume, Deodorant, Camera, Makeup, Earrings, Clips and Underwear (in case I have last minute job). I’m forever taking my wallet out and pulling a bra out with it – very embarrassing!

Who is you style-crush?
Diane Kruger, she does elegance like no other. And Vanessa Paradis, I love her.

Worst or best shopping experience?
I don’t really shop that often. If I do, I never, ever try on clothes. That’s the good thing about doing so many shows, I know what suits me and i usually just buy them after the show.

Best high street store or boutique?
A|wear, I think they’re underrated…gorgeous clothes and Irish owned store. Topshop I love. Also Covet and Bow Boutique in Powerscourt for their amazing dresses.

Favourite place to shop?
New York, I love just wandering around all the stores in Soho

What is your travel essential?
Water, water and more water….

Favourites for online fashion?
Ebay. I’ve bought two amazing dresses on it recently. One for a wedding which would have cost me hundreds but I got it for €30. I was so chuffed with myself for the day.

Worst fashion moment?
Oh god, definitely being way too blonde. God I can’t even look at the pictures now!

What era of style would you most like see return to fashion?
I’m obsessed with people like Jacqueline de Ribes . Reading about the amazing balls she attend in Paris and New York with Yves Saint Laurent, Valentino, Oleg Cassini etc…So it would have to be the 40s/50s.

Finally, what do you want your style to say about you?
Probably that I’m comfortable with who I am. I dress to make me happy.. If people like the way I dress, that’s a bonus, but if they don’t, at least I do:-)

Since signing up to Assets Model Agency five years, Sara Kavanagh has become one of Ireland’s busiest and most popular working models. Appearing most days in the Irish press, in 2008 Sara was chosen to represent Ireland as a Red Bull Formula Una at the Monaco Grand Prix. Sara is also an ambassador for The Irish Heart Foundation and regularly features on TV shows including Ireland AM, Expose, The Late Late Show and The Afternoon Show. Sara chats with HelpMyStyle and shares some of the many stylish tricks up her sleeve…

What five words best describe your style?
Boho, comfortable, retro, girlie, layered

Best style tip?
Less it more, if you’ve a dress on that already stands out and speaks for itself, don’t overdo it with too much jewelry and accessories.

Favourite item in your wardrobe right now?
A pair of black Kurt Geiger shoes… They go with everything; they’re perfect for nights out and quite comfy too!

What’s in your handbag?
My Blackberry, my diary, my wallet, a hair brush, my make-up bag

What makeup do you use?
Mac studio fix fluid, Chanel bronzer, most of my makeup is Mac

Top beauty pick?
My top beauty pick is a Mac eye shadow called ‘Amber Lights’. Perfect for both day and night and it makes your eyes pop!

Worst or best shopping experience?
My best shopping experience is New York. With so many great shops and so much to choose from, I absolutely love New York for shopping

Best high street store?
Hmmmm, there’s a few. Topshop, H&M, Zara, Urban Outfitters and my favourite is All Saints.

Fashion on the web?
I’ve never really got into shopping online, although I have bought a few very nice bikinis from Victoria’s Secret and La Perla. I think there’s so much more choice online, although I do prefer being able to try clothes on before buying them

Worst fashion moment?
I’m sure there’s a few! But one that springs to mind is being dressed up as a Viking for a presscall!

Who epitomises great style?
Kate Moss, Sienna Miller, Jennifer Aniston, Daisy Lowe

What era of style would you most like see return to fashion?
The 1950’s! I love the style from ‘’Grease’’! The pedal pushers, the poodle skirt…

Our top picks from the past week in beauty and style on helpmystyle.ie. Perfect catch-up reading for the weekend.

1. We’re loving Kate Moss’ latest collection for Topshop in stores now.

2. Brooches are back - the accessory du jour for this winter season and more from Gemini London.

3. We’re in love with the chocolate facial at Akina Beauty.

Kate Moss’ latest collection for Topshop hits stores and online today. I was thrilled to discover the inspiration for the line came from some of the most fascinating cultures on the planet – the Orient.

The Christmas 2009 Collection is inspired by traditional Japanese and Chinese styles and techniques. Several of the pieces display prints of bamboo, lotus flowers and fireworks while others are oriental-style kimono shaped dresses in chiffons and silks.

The sequin is still very much present and there’s plenty of sparkle with a sequin maxi dress and a plunging sequin mini dress. The collection also includes Moss’ first nightwear range.

Check it out and let me know what you think.

TO ENTER:
Post your answer as a comment to this blog or email to darren@helpmystyle.ie. Closing date for entries is 5pm this Friday, Oct 16th.

THE RULES:
All prizes are non-transferable and to enter you must have an Irish postal address (on the island of Ireland). There is no cash alternative and our decision is final. We respect your privacy and will never share your details with any third party.

Anna what five words best describe your style?
Casual, individual, colourful, classic and fun.

Favourite item in your wardrobe and why?
A Tommy Hilfiger beige suede coat dress – it’s hugely flattering and will never date.

Worst or best shopping experience?
Worst – In the midst of sale time on the highstreet. I hate it, the rails are filled with discounted junk and it’s never a bargain unless it’s beautiful or you need it. Best – I love wandering around markets or vintage stores in the hope that I’ll find that hidden gem someday! It’s a nice way to spend an afternoon if you have the time!

Best style tip?
In the words of Coco Chanel, when accessorising take off the last thing you put on.

Who do you think epitomises great style?
Coco Chanel. Or in modern day terms I’d suggest Mischa Barton – okay so she’s had a few blunders but that’s what taking chances is all about. Most of the time I think she looks fab.

Best high street store?
Zara and Noa Noa, I’m looking forward to seeing their new season at the fashion show at the TOP Ideal Home Show.

Where’s your favourite place to shop?
Fifth Avenue New York, it’s so alive and filled with unlimited shopping that you’re not quite sure where to start. It’s a real adventure!

Favourite online fashion haunts?
I think Littlewoods is excellent, very reasonable and has something for everyone. I’m loving the Fearne Cotton range at the moment. I also like Asos for the odd bargain too!

Whats been your worst fashion moment?
There’s been plenty as a kid! Fingerless gloves perhaps!!!

Anna will be opening the doors to the upcoming TOP Ideal Home Show Friday, 23rd October at the RDS. The TOP Ideal Home Show is an ideal place for homeowners to get advice on a range of topics for the home, including DIY tips, Interior Design advice, even Irish Cooking recipes, as well being the place to get the best bargains for everything related to the home. The show runs from October 23rd to 26th.