Welcome to Dressed for My Day! Yes, I’ve been watching Hallmark Christmas movies already this year. What about you? Indeed, you can find new holiday movies on the Hallmark Channel as well as Hallmark Movies & Mysteries every Saturday and Sunday from now (starting in October) through just before Christmas. And since I know many of my readers enjoy these little holiday indulgences as much as I do, I thought today we’d look at how to dress like a Hallmark Christmas movie main character.
Cheesy? Yeah. But let’s go with it!
Admittedly, while Hallmark movies are still pretty predictable, they have gotten better about including more diversity in their casts. And I’ve also noticed that the costuming of their main characters has taken on more variety in style as well. So the main characters in the newer movies don’t feature the cookie cutter styles of the past.
Still, I think we’d all agree that somehow the main characters in these annual holiday movies do seem to share a few characteristics. Namely, they’re all beautiful and winsome. Somehow the stylists in these movies manage to draw more attention to the leading lady than the other equally beautiful supporting characters. Because, let’s face it, everyone in the “Hallmark world” is attractive, well groomed and beautifully coiffed. So how is it that our eyes stay on the leading ladies?
Wear Red
The first thing I noticed as I began to dissect the appearance of the Hallmark leading ladies is that they frequently wear red. Not all the time, mind you. But more often than not, you’ll find the leading lady in a red coat, dress or sweater. Of course you might also notice that whatever color the leading lady is wearing, no one else is usually wearing that same color in that scene. Red demands our focus.
I love wearing red. Not only is it an attention getter, but it looks beautiful with most skin tones and hair colors. Yes, if you choose a red with the correct undertones, you absolutely can wear red.
I most frequently see Hallmark leading ladies wearing red sweaters, red dresses and red coats.
I’m providing links to some of the pretties red sweaters, coats and dresses I found available right now. You can wear red during Christmas, but then it’s still so stunningly appropriate after the season is over, too.
Wear a Silk Blouse
I do see Hallmark movie main characters dressing a little more casual than they once did, which is great. That’s where we all live, right? But I’ve noticed that they often pair a pretty silk blouse with jeans. I personally love the juxtaposition of jeans and a silk blouse. Casual but feminine and a little elegant.
I’ve collected a few of my favorite silk blouses that are currently available in the shopping widget below.
You’ll Never Go Wrong with Jeans & a Sweater
Because these are Christmas movies, we do indeed see the main characters wearing jeans and pullover sweaters frequently. But I’ve noticed that more often than not these are solid colored sweaters. Unless they’re dressing for an ugly Christmas sweater party, they’re usually wearing a solid color.
Obviously a cast wearing solid colors works better on camera. But it also works best in real life, too. If you’re taking family or group photos this holiday season, consider wearing a solid color. And if you have any control over it, you might encourage others to do the same.
When you wear solids, your photos will look less busy and it’s easier to focus on faces. Also your clothes will look less dated as the years pass.
The main exception I see to the “solid color sweater rule” is the Fair Isle sweater. I frequently see Hallmark Christmas movie main characters wear this pretty, unique sweater style. I bought a Fair Isle sweater from Talbots last year and still have it. In fact, they have one very similar to it this year. Maybe it’s even the same!
Wear a Pretty Wool Coat
Have you also noticed that the main characters in the Hallmark Christmas movies frequently wear beautiful wool coats? And sometimes, even if they’ve travelled somewhere, they appear to have several of them. Ha! Well, it’s a Hallmark world after all, not reality.
Frequently I see them wear wrap coats. Somehow these do indeed look a little more feminine and elevated than a button up version.
But you will look a little more elegant in a pretty wool coat. I’ve found a few here for you to check out if you’re looking.
And Don’t Forget the Scarf!
Scarves everywhere on Hallmark Christmas movies! The main characters almost always have one on with their coat, of course. But you’ll also see them wear them with just a sweater or dress. They’re usually thick, chunky scarves, the variety that truly keep you warm.
Adding a scarf to your coat or your outfits is such a great way to add texture, interest and a pop of color. But how often do I remember to add one? Not often enough!
Carry a Structured Handbag
At one time I would have told you that the signature style mark of most every Hallmark Christmas movie leading lady was a structured handbag. But as Hallmark has started branching out a little, I’m seeing a wider variety of handbags on the arms and shoulders of the main characters. Still, I do see these iconic, feminine accessories quite frequently in the movies. And they really elevate their looks.
Here’s a shopping widget with some beautiful structured handbags that could elevate your style in the same way.
Keep Your Makeup Fresh & Minimal
As beautiful as the leading ladies in the Hallmark Christmas movies are, they usually wear very natural looking makeup.
Their brows are shaped and their complexions are rosy and clear. They usually wear pretty lip color and mascara. But their eye makeup is kept to a minimum.
I suggest updating your winter look with a new lipstick and maybe a lighter foundation (since you’re in the sun less). And copying the Hallmark fresh face is always a good idea for us older gals.
Keep Your Jewelry Minimal & Personal
I’ve also noticed that Hallmark leading ladies generally wear minimal jewelry. But they do indeed take the time to put on earrings and usually a dainty necklace.
Of course, we often learn in the storyline that the necklace has some sentimental meaning. Ahh. But I think the more important clue to take visually is to wear something dainty and that looks real and significant to the wear.
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Blessed for My Day
Things seem a little upside down in our world right now, don’t they? It’s easy to start feeling disoriented and out of step. One of the things that makes me feel the most out of sync with the world around me is how differently I seem to see things. My worldview is based on Scripture. But every day I hear and see things from other perspectives that seem to lack a biblical viewpoint.
The good news is that Jesus said it would be this way. In fact, His entrance into this world set this imbalance into motion. He pointed out over and over that there are two ways to see things: in the light or in the dark, through truth or through the lies of the enemy, with wisdom or with foolishness. Want to see things clearly? Follow Jesus. He came to give sight so that we would no longer have to walk in darkness.
And Jesus said, “For judgment I came into this world, so that those who do not see may see, and those who see may become blind.” ~ John 9:39
Thanks, Kay. Your post makes me happy and I don’t even get the Hallmark channel. Maybe because it feels like it harkens back to a simpler time and when women embraced their femininity. Also I need to get a wrap coat and not be seduced by print tops/dresses.
Times are difficult and I feel my joy sucked out of me. Your BFMD was spot on.
Wonderful. I’m so glad you enjoyed the post and that it brought you a little reprieve from the difficulty of the days we’re living in. ?
Happy Tuesday Kay…..oh how I love to watch Hallmark movies! My sister lives in Cincy and she likes for us to watch them together.
These are all such great things to remember and take notice to when dressing for the Holidays.
Thank you for this fun post, I really liked it.
Blessings,
Great! Thanks so much for sharing. I enjoy most of the Hallmark movies too. ❤️
What an interesting idea for a blog post! I’m always admiring the clothes when I watch Hallmark movies. There are some gorgeous coats!
Yes, they always look pulled together and polished, don’t they? ❤️
Thanks for the Hallmark Movie styling today! I am a total Hallmark junkie all year including a few mini series like “The Good Witch”. Every movie it seems the leading lady has traveled to a destination and seems to have endless wardrobe possibilities including at least three wool coats! Love the observations and thanks for the shopping links!
Hahaha! Yeah, I always think it’s pretty funny that they have all those clothes and they just took a little suitcase. ??? Bit this year I’m so grateful for the un-reality of these movies. ?
I don’t watch Hallmark movies but what a fun post! I really enjoyed how you pointed out how the leading ladies are dressed and how to apply it to our daily outfits. Thanks, Kay!
You bet. I’m glad you enjoyed the post, Bev. ?
Thank you Kay I really needed this fun pick me up today. Red is one of my favourite colours to wear,
Wonderful! I completely understand. We all need a little levity these days. Thanks for stopping in. ❤️
Such a cute idea. Thanks for thinking outside the box?
You bet! ❤️
My husband and both watch way too many Hallmark movies because, sadly, there’s not much wholesome variety on regular television. But I’m with you on picking out the beautiful outfits the characters wear! And all those gorgeous coats! Love your breakdown of the highlights!
Hahaha! I hear ya. James watches some of them with me. We struggle to find much to watch, too. Thanks for sharing, Mary Ellen.
My husband and I both watch hallmark movies as well. I love what you’ve done.
I love this post! I so enjoy the Hallmark movies, and I’ve thought before how they always look so put together! Thanks for helping us figure out how to do their style.
Sure thing. Thanks for sharing, Jennifer. I’m glad you enjoyed the post. ?
I so enjoyed this post. Thank you for being a bright spot in our day.
Well you gals are definitely a bright spot in mine, too. Thanks for sharing. ?
Good morning Kay. I told myself I was not going to watch the Hallmark Christmas so early in the season. They started them way before Thanksgiving, In October even. The world is so perilous right now and these movies, though most of the time predictable and whimsy, are sweet and take my mind off the chaos off the world. I find myself watching at least one everyday. I do enjoy seeing all the cute outfits they wear. Thanks for noticing too and giving us tips and widgets to purchase some. Though you did not mention Candance Cameron Bure, I enjoy here movies and she dresses in the cutest wool coats and sweaters. Often wondered where they got them for her character.
Sorry so lengthy but thanks for the info as usual. God bless. Sherry
Thanks for sharing, Sherry. I love Candace Cameron Bure’s movies, too. And the Aurora Teagarden mysteries. ❤️
Good morning Kay. I told myself I was not going to watch the Hallmark Christmas so early in the season. They started them way before Thanksgiving, In October even. The world is so perilous right now and these movies, though most of the time predictable and whimsy, are sweet and take my mind off the chaos off the world. I find myself watching at least one everyday. I do enjoy seeing all the cute outfits they wear. Thanks for noticing too and giving us tips and widgets to purchase some. Though you did not mention Candance Cameron Bure, I enjoy here movies and she dresses in the cutest wool coats and sweaters. Often wondered where they got them for her character.
Sorry so lengthy but thanks for the info as usual. God bless. Sherry
I really like watching the Aurora Teagarden mysteries also,
If you get a chance watch A Shoe Addict’s Christmas with
Candance Cameron Bure. It is really cute and a good movie.
Sherry
Forgot to mention that the movie is on the Hallmark channel in the Christmas movies.
Sherry
I have noticed the wool wrap coats have a little silver trim. Are these coats sold somewhere?
Hmm. I hadn’t noticed. I’ll keep an eye out. ?
I was searching for the same coats…with the little silver lapel trim. I came to your blog from the search (fun blog, btw). The coats are really cute. If you figure out the brand, please post! Thanks!
Hi, I’m almost sure they are from Ted Baker (wrap coat). Cheers!
I LOVE this post! In a world where it is easy to have a “down” day, these movies are so delightful! If you haven’t seen “Write Before Christmas”, it includes a beautiful “our age character” ? …the aunt of the main gal. She is gorgeous and dresses with style! Check it out. Thanks for a fun start to my day! ?
I’ll have to check. I feel like I’ve seen them all, but every now and again I come across an older one I haven’t seen yet. Thanks for sharing. ❤️
Thanks for this great post! Such a joy to see so many beautiful options for dressing pretty, but keeping things simple! I found myself reflecting on scriptures that focus on not living in fear yesterday. So many are living in fear right now! I am claiming the words of Jesus and choosing to not live in fear! Have a blessed day, Kay!
Yes! No to fear! I’m with you, Danelle. It’s so easy to slip into despair and we really do have to fight against it with truth, don’t we. Thanks for sharing. ?
I love today’s post! I enjoy watching the Hallmark movies and have loved the attire of the leading ladies, especially the red coats! I think your observation “nailed it!” Also, it just dawned on me that I have my own personal (well almost) personal stylist in you! I really appreciate all you do to bring us the latest styles, how to find them and how to wear them! Thank you, Kay!!
Ahh, that’s so sweet of you. Thanks, Evelyn, for your encouragement and for reading. I’m glad you ladies have enjoyed today’s post. ❤️
What a fun idea for a post, Kay! And very informative! I’m ready to start watching the Hallmark Christmas movies and getting ideas for dressing as well. Thank you!
What an interesting and fun idea for a post, Kay! And very informative! I’m ready to start watching the Hallmark Christmas movies and getting ideas for dressing as well. Thank you!
Fun and unique post! Thanks for sharing!
You’re quite welcome, Tawni! ?
Thank you for such a fun post today! I love to wear red and I’ve been contemplating the need for a new red sweater, you just talked me into it ?? Also loved your BFMD! You blessed my day, thank you!
Thanks so much, Cyndy, for letting me know how much you enjoyed today’s post. I’m thrilled that you gals are liking it. ?
Kay,
I ALways enjoy your posts! I’m wondering if the fair isle type sweater would look okay on me. I have broad shoulders so wondering if it would accentuate them or diminish?? Please advise.
Hi Judy. I’m so glad you enjoyed the post. The fair isle yoke sweater would probably accentuate your wide shoulders. If you’d rather not widen your shoulders you could go with one of the fair isle sweaters like this https://shopstyle.it/l/boEcj or this https://shopstyle.it/l/boEcw .
I love this post! I really enjoy Hallmark Christmas movies, and enjoy the style of the characters. I really like BFMD too. A good reminder to choose His Light and joy every moment. Thank you!
Wonderful! I’m so glad you enjoyed the post. Thanks for sharing, Diane. ?
What a fun post! And so original. I loved it! thanks Kay.
Thanks! I’m so glad you enjoyed it. ?
I loved your post today! And I’ve always loved the Hallmark show’s. I know we always know the ending is predictable, but comforting in todays world. We need comforting now. And I have always loved the clothes. Congrats! To the Hallmark wardrobe department! And you!
Thanks for posting. I always notice how perfectly holiday festive their outfits are. Their hair and makeup are well done too. Love watching them and glad you posted the obvious in time for me to do some shopping. I need to wear more green and solid colors.
Hi Kay,
What a hoot it was to read your blog today. Well done! I have been watching Hallmark movies for a number of years, through the ups and downs of my life. They have been a welcome enjoyment and distraction. And I always love a happy ending. Nor does it escape me the work you put into sharing the formulas in their wardrobes, make-up, etc.
On a more serious note I have been so blessed by your BFMD. You are a gifted writer in sharing scripture.
As far as trying not to live in fear…I usually have one of those flip daily calendars on my nightstand. This year I have one by Max Lucado, Anxious for Nothing. A small thing but helps to start my day on a more positive note during these uncertain times before my feet hit the ground. Thanking you for all you do, Vivian
Another reason I love Hallmark movies. Simple, easy to wear items. Thanks
Hi Kay, I think I’ve watched maybe 4 Hallmark movies over the years, possibly the same one (sometimes it’s hard to tell) :0. Kudos for creating such a unique and original post out of a pleasant pastime. I really enjoyed it. Thank you for your hard work to write on so many topics. I think I landed here because you work so hard to dig deep and research your topics so thoroughly. But part of what keeps me engaged is your amazing creativity, as illustrated here. How fun to see these traditional, classic styles bundled in this blog. It’s helping me get in the holiday spirit, which I need, since my son, dil and mom are all in Texas. Haven’t seen them in a year and no prospects to see them this holiday. I am a true Christmas girl at heart and shopping in a beautiful Christmas store recently helped me take a first step toward overcoming my bleak Christmas prospects. This post has helped me take another. Perhaps I’ll unpack and put up the beautiful Christmas garland I bought there…while I watch a Hallmark Christmas movie. 🙂
Thanks so much for your kind and encouraging words, Lael. I too am working overtime to come up with ways to help James and me enjoy the holidays and their true meaning in this difficult time. Since my son and daughter-in-law aren’t coming for Thanksgiving now I think I may put up my Christmas decorations this weekend. And we have some plans to go to some outdoor Christmas events too. ?
I love the approachable style of the characters in these movies. And, they are looks that any age and size can wear.
I got a red wool peacoat at Costco about 10 years ago. Since it’s a classic, it works every year. I love it too! It goes with everything and, if I say so myself, it makes me look stunning. 🙂 I get compliments often.
I love all the red dresses they wear at the end of the movie. Wish I knew where to buy them
What fun!I’m so glad I didn’t miss this post. I have been known to say that I watch Hallmark movies for the scarves and the pick up trucks!
Hahaha! I love that. I’m glad you enjoyed the post. ❤️
Hi! Where is the purse from in Good Morning Christmas? I’m loving it!
Can you do a similar post around Aurora Teagarden (Hallmark) style and also Fall hallmark style? Those ladies are so polished.