Looking for an accessory to add that finishing touch to your holiday look?  Try the classic ruana.

According to Wikipedia, “a ruana is a poncho-style outer garment typical of the Andes regions of Venezuela and Columbia, particularly in the Boyaca department and Antioquia.  According to Proexport, the official Colombian agency in charge of international tourism, foreign investment, and non-traditional exports, the word ruana comes from the Chibcha  meaning “Land of Blankets,”  used to refer to the woolen fabrics manufactured by the Muisca natives.”

For those of us who live outside of the Andes, a ruana is not only warm but wearable art.  This third layer piece will get you noticed!  Wear it for both formal and casual occasions over silk or cotton turtlenecks with flared skirts or well-fitted jeans.

A ruana is a free-flowing wrap with an open front, similar to a large scarf.  You can wear the ruana long in front and open like shawl, or throw one or both sides over your shoulder(s) for a more romantic or dramatic cape.  The key is to allow the fabric to completely cover your shoulders.

There are many options in stores, just right for holiday occasions or gift giving.  One size fits all and floats over the figure.  It’s fabric with function as well as beauty and elegance that is just plain fun to wear!

Apparently they are also fun to look at, because we just can’t get enough of them!  Here are a few more ruana looks….

Looking to add some zing to your style?  Try our Personal Style Clinic!  

It's the holidays!  The time of year when we love to pull out the bling, or shop for something new that sparkles.  With the dim evening lighting, something with a little shimmer or shine plays off the lights beautifully and makes a fun statement.   A word of caution:  just because the clothing has sparkles doesn't mean it works.  (Unless, of course, you are 4 years old. Then it always works!) Knowing that many of you are looking for that lovely holiday outfit, we have eight tips to consider for your smart shopping success.

1. Plan for time to try on the clothes you're shopping for.
2. If it zips, it doesn't mean it fits.  Take two or three sizes into the fitting room with you.  What is labeled small, medium, large or extra-large varies from brand to brand and possibly even item to item.
3. When wearing each garment, ask yourself, "Where could I wear this?" "Will this get me the raise / date / recognition I'm looking for?" "What will this do for me?"
4. Move around, walk, reach, stretch, bend, and sit.  Can you move comfortably?  Can you breathe?
5. How do you look in a full-length mirror?  Leave your dressing room and find a mirror where you can step back several feet for a different vantage point.
6. If it's too short, check the hem allowance to see if it can be let down.
7. If it puckers or pulls, the garment is too small for your body.  Let it go, or go up a size.
8. Give yourself a break.  Stop for a healthy drink or snack to rest and relax rather than make a rash decision or give up too soon.

Expect success and you will often find it.  Of course, we've got an expert to help you if you eliminate any shopping mistakes and teach you how fun shopping can be, click below for more information.