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Amanda Seyfried stepped out at night in NYC fusing three primary colors, which resulted in a perfect retro-chic ensemble to mimic any time of year. The actress layered a powder-blue coat over a marigold sheath dress, then slipped on a pair of nude Christian Louboutin pumps ($625) to balance her colorful pairing. Amanda then upped the glam factor with a red mini Céline tote, sleek ponytail, and red lipstick. Get inspired by this trio of colors by working a light blue coat, yellow dress, and red bag for a holiday soiree or go casual with these mustard Current/Elliott skinny jeans ($125, originally $178), this peplum Alice + Olivia top ($198) and a pair of red pumps.

Jessica Alba gave a lesson in monochromatic layering after enjoying a family breakfast in Beverly Hills on Sunday. The actress worked a charcoal shawl-collar Gerard Darel coat with a black sweater, gray skinny cords, and black patent rain boots, then wrapped a printed Zadig & Voltaire scarf for extra warmth and color. She completed her gray look with a leather Gerard Darel crossbody bag, classic black shades, and gold spike earrings. Get inspired by Jessica's cute and cozy weekend style with a gray wrap coat, matching corduroys, and black patent boots for your next breakfast date.

Katie Holmes strolled the streets of NYC over the weekend looking cozy-slash-chic in this Etoile Isabel Marant knit cardigan ($425), topped over a white silk blouse, which she buttoned up all the way for a polished feel. On bottom the actress wore black pleat-front trousers with black ankle boots, then added a pop of color via this Delvaux Madame black and red colorblock bag ($3,500). We're loving Katie's layered look, especially for the office, so to achieve it, just wear your silky blouses with your favorite knit cardigans. Don't forget to button up all the way for that extra-sleek touch.

Kristen Stewart attended a Vanity Fair screening of On the Road in Marin County, CA, over the weekend, and for the special occasion, the actress created the perfect pairing for the holidays: a gray BCBG tuxedo blazer with black leather H&M pants. In true Kristen form, she kept a casual vibe via a white tee, but then added mega dazzle with these red Christian Louboutin pumps ($795) and matching red lips. Re-create Kristen's latest look by sporting a tuxedo blazer with black leather pants, then finish off with a pair of striking red pumps.

We're only a couple of weeks into December, but lest you should already tire of the proverbial cocktail dress, we've got your fix. This season we're drawing on the polished but laid-back outfit combos we saw on the likes of Tibi's Fall runway, with slouchy sweatshirt tops and posh pencil skirts. It's the best of both worlds — a mix of comfort and cool — that's as fresh and unexpected as it is easy to pull together. The trick is finding luxe fabrics to make the ensemble all the more eye-popping. Look to festive jacquard in seasonal reds and greens, sleek leather, and satin-finished peplum to dress up, then counter with a sportier sweatshirt top (that'll also keep you cozy!). Should you fear you're not quite party-ready, that's where your footwear factors in — opt for a minimalist, totally sexy ankle-strap heel to finish it off, and if you're still in search of something to glam it up, don't hesitate to complement your neckline with your favorite statement baubles. Et voilà, you're set for a night out in three easy pieces — just shop our editors' picks for every party girl's chic alternative to party dresses.

Shop from left to right: Tibi Neoprene and Floral-Lace Sweatshirt ($425), By Malene Birger Olinas Leather and Jersey Paneled Pencil Skirt ($695), Tibi Carine Ankle Strap Sandals ($395); Dsquared2 Sweatshirt Style Top ($394), J.Crew No. 2 Pencil Skirt in Metallic Floral ($100, originally $148), Steve Madden Realove Pump ($80); Mango Sequined Sweatshirt ($50), By Malene Birger Doraona Silk and Wool-Blend Peplum Skirt ($395), Proenza Schouler High Heel Ankle Strap Sandal ($695)