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In addition to fashion's reigning glitzy hue, other precious metals such as bronze, silver and copper share the spotlight this holiday season when it comes to belts, handbags, shoes, clothing and, of course, jewelry.

"Metallic is all over the place this season," says Heather Hannan, regional manager of special events, public relations and community affairs for Macy's. "It's a luxury fashion color and a standard for glamour."

Although shimmering metallic hues were previously reserved for evening wear, that no longer is the case.

"When you think of the whole idea of wearing metallics and shine, it sort of has an evening feel, but it's also for day as well," says Robert Rutkauskas, vice president and fashion director for Kaufmann's/Filene's.

Even folksy items such as cowboy boots are not immune to the metallic trend, thanks to wash treatments that give leather a subtle sheen, rather than the shiny, high-gloss finish typically associated with metallic fashions of the past, Rutkauskas says.

Fashionable accoutrements ranging from apparel and accessories to outerwear are tinged with the Midas touch.

"As we get into the colder months, we are seeing a lot of satin metallic sheens in puffer coats, metallic leather jackets and boots," Hannan says. "Silver, gold, copper and bronze hues seem to be our most popular metallic hues. It's wintry colors with a kick."

"We are also seeing a lot of the Lurex tops, where metallic threads are woven into the blouse. The effect is dazzling."

To give these high-octane colors more dimension and texture, Rutkauskas says an extra layer of embellishment in the form of embroidery, top-stitching or grommets is being added to some metallic pieces.

Some classic styles are getting a glam makeover with tasteful metallic adornments such as sequins, which are sprouting up on numerous pieces, including a cashmere-silk-blend wrap by Acrobat featuring metallic sequins ($220) sold at Ona Boutique in Mt. Lebanon.

"The wrap is extremely popular," says Karly Tetlow, owner of Ona Boutique. "I think it's so versatile, and it's really a unique piece. You can dress it up or pair it with jeans."

Even though the rules have become more lax when it comes to wearing metallics, some fashion industry insiders caution against wearing these bold hues any time, any place.

"Metallics aren't something that you want to wear in the middle of the afternoon running errands," Tetlow says. "It's more of something that you wear for a holiday party."

With the holidays fast approaching, nothing evokes a sense of glitz and glamour better than glittering metallic threads.

"The holidays are a great time to sparkle and shine," Hannan says. "Plus, metallics are a great alternative to basic black for evening wear and holiday parties. It's elegant, and holidays are a prime time to showcase more opulent styles."

Dos and don'ts

Wearing head-to-toe metallics is so '80s. To avoid looking like an extra from "Desperately Seeking Susan," here are some tips from Heather Hannan, regional manager of special events, public relations and community affairs for Macy's; Robert Rutkauskas, vice president and fashion director of Kaufmann's/Filene's; and Karly Tetlow, owner of Ona Boutique, on how to incorporate elements of the metallic look into your wardrobe:

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