Look for high-gloss cocktail dresses to add glamour to holiday parties this season.

"Metallics and high shine (think sequined mini dresses), zip-front dresses and one-shoulder styles are extremely popular," said Suzanne Bishop, owner of Frankie & Julian's boutique on Frazier Avenue. "Also look for bright colors (neon '80s colors, particularly green, pink and yellow), lots of lace and lingerie-inspired dresses and cocktail suits worn with corsets and bustiers."

Add bold jewel tones and red to the list of "in" colors for holiday celebrations, said Emily Goodwin, owner of Boutique Couture on Market Street. Babydoll dresses with sequins and a mix of fabrics and textures have made the must-have list for party styles.

The cocktail dress, however, may not be the go-to style for all parties, Ms. Goodwin said.

"In my opinion, if it's black-tie, you need to go with a long gown," she said.

For a dressy to semi-formal occasion, the cocktail dress is ideal, she added.

While a cocktail dress is suitable for women of all ages, the length should vary according to age. Lengths range from mini (more suitable for younger women) to just below the knees.

"Make sure the length is appropriate for your age and the event that you are attending," Ms. Goodwin said.

She cautioned not to mistake thinking any little black dress will do for a dressy event.

"If you've had your little black dress since 1989, you might want to consider investing in a new basic piece," she said.

You don't have to fork over big bucks for the season's party attire.

Clothing Web site Wear Today Gone Tomorrow (www.weartodaygonetomorrow.com) specializes in the rental of evening dresses, tops, jackets and skirts. Current designer fashions rent weekly for 90 percent off retail prices or monthly for 70 percent off retail prices, according to the Web site.

The online rental boutique was created because women hate to be seen twice in the same expensive piece of designer clothing, the site noted.

Fashion tips for holiday parties

* Pick a statement piece. If your dress has a flower or a bold accent, keep the jewelry simple. If the dress is simple, jazz it up with a huge cocktail ring.

* Don't oversimplify. Women sometimes pick a gown that is basic to keep the look simple, when a color or unique accent would be more becoming.

* Coordinate your footwear. The biggest way to ruin an outfit is with bad shoes. Don't make the mistake of wearing shoes that don't go with the outfit, and don't wear hose with open-toed shoes.

* Mind your straps. Not everyone looks good in strapless dresses. Bigger-busted women often need more support than a strapless gown offers. While an open neckline slims some people, it doesn't slim someone who is spilling over the dress.

Source: Emily Goodwin, owner of Boutique Couture