by Gwyn Conaway
The smell of hot cider, the dazzling reflections of tinsel on trees, the fog of laughter in the air. It’s the holiday season at last! While others are contemplating the foods they’ll cook, the slopes they’ll ski, and the gifts they’ll give, I’m wondering what they’ll be wearing while they do it. Let’s crack open this year’s JCPenney’s Christmas Book and see what’s in store for the yuletide.
Both men and women are looking to the deep v-neck sweater as a casual staple for the winter.
This season is bold, featuring wide stripes, large plaids, ruffles, and plump quilting. Although the occasional pastel creeps into the palette, the primary colors of this Christmas season are white and red with pops of frosty blue and pink. This modern color scheme has made green feel outdated this year. Only one dress in the Christmas Book this year is green, and although the ensemble is sharp, the color doesn’t stand up to the energetic blues and pinks we’ll be seeing come December.
Childrenswear is especially dear this year, with ensembles such as the satin-stripe cotton ‘Pima Miat’ dress pictured below on the left with a nylon marquisette underskirt. The wide stripes feel more delicate with the pastel tone-on-tone palette, while the ruffled bib and sleeve give it the panache the season deserves.
In addition to the satin-stripe 'Pima Miat' dress, this page of the Christmas Book features a cotton velveteen jumper with cotton blouse (center) and a cotton velveteen bodice with rayon print petticoat that shows prettily under a sheer nylon overskirt (right) in both big sister and little sister sizes.
But of course, not all winter fun happens around a tree in our living rooms. Braving the cold is half the fun! I’m excited to see quilted ski parkas paired with black patterned toques and stretch ski pants, as seen below. A hood is hidden in the mother’s smart mandarin collar as well as the men’s while the daughter’s fur hood is proudly displayed: dyed mouton lamb’s fur. The Christmas Book also boasts a wide selection of after-ski boots in suede and capeskin gloves for all ages.
Women’s coats shine in this year’s issue as well. Two beautiful options caught my eye: the Milliken Mirette plaid (left) and trench coat (right), both made of rayon-and-acetate laminated to foam for a woolen look and feel. Water repellant, of course, and sure to be stylish well into the spring.
But of course, the pressing question, really, is what to wear during our precious holidays with family around the hearth. To my delight, JCPenney has offered a solution for the entire family. The red and white striped combinations below are sure to add a festive air to Christmas morning. Top off the sweet family portrait with matching slippers in either patent pleather or electrified shearling lamb.
If your family isn’t into matching styles, there are other options for girls and women to consider. Perhaps my two favorite items in the Christmas Book this year are the red peignoir and the pink cover-up below. The peignoir has a suede appearance for a glamorous but warm leisurely look. Simple lines accented by the narrow bow at the waist , a three-quarter sleeve, and the slanted trouser pockets all give this peignoir a classic, regal finish.The pink cover-up, also in a suede fashion, is bright and perky as well as warm. Its standing collar and self-fabric buttons aren't the only fun details. The pop of berry and fir stems that appear to be around the neck bring a youthful sparkle to the wearer. This one is also available in the frosty blue of the season.
Yes, JCPenney’s Christmas Book for 1964 is a delight, imbuing classic styles with a fresh palette. It addresses all ages and brings fun to the family, both through its selection of toys for the children and its collection of warm winter wear in pinks and blues. Not only is the palette of the season bold, it’s clever. By casting green off to the wayside, we now have a palette that could last through Easter. Looking forward, I wonder if we’ll be adding spring green back into the mix, in lighter, frothier colors for next year? A reinvention of the color, perhaps? Food for thought.
But rather than linger on my exuberant predictions, I plan to enjoy the season as it unfolds with a hot cider and some roasted chestnuts.
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