The holidays have dual personalities. There's the family-oriented side that likes to cozy up with egg nog, a Charlie Brown Christmas, and warm socks; and then there's the party girl that's ready to rock the holiday cheer in a pair of hot heels. I embrace both personalities (of course we can have it all), but today we're talking about dress trends that will make you shine.

Winter 2008 is full of great dress options, whether you're going for naughty or nice. Even better, you can go for the non-cliche look of funky, because accessories make it so easy to modernize classic looks. For dresses that hit above the knee and have interesting hemlines (like bubble, pleated, or pencil), throw on some black tights, ankle boots, and chunky bangles. No matter what style you choose, bold, jewel tones are in. And if you opt for a Little Black Dress, choose one with cool details to set it apart.

1. Sweetheart Necklines

They're bringing sweethearts back. These offer a more flattering shape to strapless dresses than the straight-across-your-chest line. This particular BCBG dress has a few trends in its favor - sweetheart neckline, draping, and faux two-piece. Plus, it's an LBD with a twist. And next to it, a worthy alternative for a fraction of the price.

BCBG, Metallic Jacquard Combination, Bloomingdales, $298; Forever 21 Sequin Satin Tube Dress, $32.80.

2. One Shoulder

Typically associated with the Grecian goddess look, French Connection gives the one shoulder dress an update by moving into gladiator territory. This dress excites me because of the bold detailing. This would be amazing with boots, any length.

French Connection, Berry Jaquard Dress, $198

Ruby Rox One Shoulder Dress, Nordstrom, $68; Max & Cleo Single-Shoulder Dress, Dillards, $148.

3. Keyhole Halters

Halter tops are modernized but on the conservative side with a u-shaped collar, and many opt to play peek-a-boo with a keyhole opening.

JS Boutique Beaded Chiffon Dress, Nordstrom, $178 (Sale Price $105); Ann Taylor Loft Halter Dress, $99.

4. Faux Two-Piece

This hot look takes you effortlessly from the office to cocktails. It's a bit restrained for full-on party - unless you want to play up the naughty librarian angle with chic glasses and red lips. These dresses  are great because you don't have to worry about a high-waisted skirt riding up or tug at your blouse - 'cuz that is so not sexy.

BCBG Ruffled Collar Dress, Macy's, $298; Forever 21 Rochelle V-Neck Dress, $24.80.

5. Ruching, Draping, Pleating

Look for intricate detailing to add interest to otherwise simple cuts. This Forever 21 dress is practically identical to a Max & Cleo version that costs over $100.

Forever 21, Tri Color Chiffon Dress, $24.80

BCBG Drape Sheath, $232; French Connection Wiard Wonder Dress, $218.

Where to find your dream dress...or its knock-off

I have a hard time splurging on anything, even beautiful dresses which are my weakness. So, I have scoured some sites for you to pore over for great deals.

Nordstrom - Juniors and their sale section.

Macy's - There's always something on sale.

Bluefly - The ultimate discounted designer destination.

eDressMe - A ton of dresses centralized in one website, including mark-downs.

Forever 21 - The QUEEN of knock-offs - check out their black strapless, sweetheart dresses and faux two-pieces. These dresses may be cheap, but you don't have to worry about trashing them or feel guilty if they only get out of your closet one time.

French Connection - Gorgeous dresses, many for under $200.

Bloomingdales - I usually pass over Bloomie's because I think there's no way I can find anything in my budget, but their website features a ton of great sale items from lots of designers including BCBG and Tracy Reese.

Urban Outfitters - For a bit more laid back, hipster cool.

Anthropologie - Quaint, lovely, and unique dresses that are definitely a splurge.

Photos taken from websites cited for each of the dresses.