Once you are finished decking the halls, take some time to get yourself decked out for the season. The end of the year is full of parties — from the family dinner to the work holiday bash. It’s one of the few times of the year where glam is OK and dressing up can be whatever you want it to be. You’ve got New Year’s parties and holiday get-togethers to attend. And you better look good.

Dressing up has become easier with time, as pants became just as formal as dresses and skirts. This year, there are plenty of looks to chose from, and how hot you look is all about your style and what trend you pick to follow. You can find all of the looks shown here at Target.

Be comfortable in pants

A semi-formal occasion doesn’t mean you have to show up in your homecoming dress. Actually, it’s easier to get away with dressing down. Pulling out the bridesmaid’s dress you wore last winter can be tacky.

White pants are dressy enough to make you feel comfortable next to the cocktail dresses. Look for a cut that fits through the waist and hips, but keeps a straight leg. A little flare is okay, but bell bottoms have definitely gone out — for the second time. Wide legs seem to be the new option instead of flares — they look more grown-up.

Remember, it’s the details that count this year. Pair your white pants with the brooch idea mentioned above.

Shoes

Shoes are another small detail that women notice and men never seem to care about. Carrie Bradshaw would attest to the fact that shoes can make or break a night. Comfortable shoes can look great, and they only take more searching than the stilettos that will make your feet cry in the morning. Flats are still stylish, so take advantage. Go for a simple, black, low-heeled or kitten-heeled shoe and watch how comfortable and elegant you feel.

Jewelry

Accessories have gone far this year. We’ve had chandelier earrings, stringy earrings, big jeweled brooches and layers and layers of pearls. All of these ideas are applicable to the holidays. Pearls are easily layered to draw attention to your neck or wrist, and the more the merrier.

Make your brooch go above and beyond the call of duty by moving it from your coat’s lapel to your cardigan. It’s simpler than leaving your sweater unbuttoned and adds a bit of flash to the outfit.

Watch, however, and don’t go overboard. You don’t want to look like you are wearing your grandmother’s version of bling. If your earrings are really attention-getting, don’t match it with a loud necklace; use maybe a simple bracelet instead.

Don’t diss black

All black can look better than you think it will. Black is sleek and classy. There are so many fabrics out today that you can mix and match fabrics and detailing — like the sparkly shell we chose — to make yourself stand out.

Satin works with angora and polyester works with rayon. Technology has brought tons of options, so use them.

Black outfits are also a chance to show off your accessories more. The big pendant you have from that antique store will look like the centerpiece on a black canvas.

Also, a simple black dress can go a long way. Wear it alone, or with fun jewelry or a colored scarf.