It's the most wonderful time of the year....

It is hard to believe it but, yes, another year is quickly coming to an end, and this brings the winter holidays, be it Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, or the Winter Solstice. Whichever you celebrate, good times and memories are sure to be shared and new ones made.

This is the time when friends and family gather together for all sorts of celebrations, be they little or big. But whichever you find yourself attending, you must always look your best. As Christmas or Yuletide is the holiday celebrated in the Harry Potter books, that is the holiday I will be giving out suggestions on attire for certain events.

My favorite event of the season is going out into the fields and finding that perfect tree. What a thrill it is to walk through the fields checking out tree after tree and then finally spotting "the one" that you know is "your" tree. Once the tree is set up in its stand, it's time to decorate it. What better occasion to throw a party?

Usually a tree decorating party is a casual affair, so jeans and sweaters are usually suitable. You can go a little dressier than your normal, "I've worn this sweater for the last two years" sweater, because you never know who you might run into. Even one of those playful Christmas pattern sweaters can be worn to a get-together like this. I would also suggest that you wear comfortable shoes since you will be on your feet for most of the evening until the tree is fully done.

At some point of the holiday season there will also be the "formal" Christmas party. For that one, "dressing to the nines" — as the saying goes — is in order. Most people tend to include in their attire the traditional colors of red and green. I would suggest that you lean towards one color and accessorize with the other. For example, ladies can choose a lovely red dress and emerald green jewelry, and men can go with a grey suit with green silk tie. This is not the time to wear those Christmas-patterned type clothing; leave those items for the tree trimming, sleigh ride parties, etc.

Whatever you wear to your holiday parties, just remember to have a wonderful time and make some new and lasting memories.