With graduations, weddings and travel back in the horizon, today’s topic is spring dresses.

This year the kickoff to wedding season could not have been more exciting when American actress Meghan Markle wed Great Britain’s Prince Harry at St. George’s Chapel in Windsor Castle. From the moment Meghan stepped out of her limousine, fans were obsessed with every detail of her outfit, including her tiara and finely detailed veil. Also in the spotlight were the close family and friends of the couple, who dressed elegantly in designer dresses, shoes, and of course, hats. Following on the heels of this exciting moment, we consider how to dress well as a bride or a wedding guest even without royal connections.

Usually when I snuggle up on a wintery January night to watch the Golden Globes, I expect plunging necklines, colorful dresses, sky-high heels and jewels galore. But this year when it was announced that presenters and guests would all be wearing all black, I braced myself. Not against the cold, but rather in anticipation of a dark night of stunning actresses lost in a sea of midnight, ebony, and ink.

Interested in kicking your office party attire up a notch while still keeping things business-appropriate with the powers that be? Read on! 

If you're interested in kicking your wardrobe up a notch this holiday season without breaking the bank, these 5 holiday wardrobe staples are a great place to start.