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It’s officially the most wonderful time of the year, and it’s time we dress like it! With so many holiday festivities just around the corner, it can definitely feel a little daunting to find the perfect outfit in time. And these past couple of holiday seasons haven’t been the most “normal” either, as many of the functions we were attending with friends, coworkers, and family may have been virtual or socially distanced. Now, it’s time to celebrate together and it’s time to step out in style.
Whether you’re still in college, or just starting out at your first full-time job, you’ll probably have a festive occasion to dress up for soon. No need to run out and buy everything brand-new BTW… creating your holiday looks should definitely be a combo of shopping your closet and shopping winter sales. Holiday dinners, office parties, a New Year’s Eve night out — you name it, I’ll help you find the perfect fit for it.
What to wear to a casual holiday dinner:
Festive and comfortable? Count me in. For a more relaxed get-together with friends and family, raid your closet for your go-to jeans and a chunky sweater (Urban Outfitters, $49). Or, get comfy-cozy in a sweater dress (Lulu’s, $63.20) and booties. Or maybe, you really want to wow the crowd with an ugly Christmas sweater. When it comes to casual, you really get to just do you!
- Urban Renewal Vintage Novelty Icon Sweater
- Cozy Find Black Ribbed Knit Bodycon Sweater Dress
What to wear to a fancy holiday party:
For a fancier event, it’s time to kick things up a notch. A mini or midi dress (ALTAR’D STATE, $80) with some kitten heels will definitely do the trick. Or, you can pair a turtle neck with a mini skirt (Abercrombie & Fitch, $60). If you’re in need of some extra flare, — or if it’s just straight-up cold wherever you’re celebrating — add a blazer (ASOS, $72).
- Emma Satin Mini Dress
- Vegan Leather 5-Pocket Mini Skirt
- Vero Moda tailored suit mini skirt and blazer set in chocolate
What to wear to a holiday office party:
Pro-tip: if you want to feel fancy without your wallet having to take the fall, try renting your holiday party outfit! Asking a coworker what she’ll be wearing to our office function is actually what led me to find out about the amazing sales Rent The Runway is having right now.
For anything office-related, you’ll obviously want to keep things work appropriate… but you can still make things flashy and fun. Go for a classy jumpsuit (Rent The Runway, $66), or dress up with an off-the-shoulder jumpsuit (Express, $44). Post-holiday party, your bosses will need to start taking fashion tips from you.
- Black Halo Jordan Jumpsuit
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Rent The Runway - One Shoulder Wide Leg Jumpsuit
What to wear on New Year’s Eve:
Sparkles. Lots and lots of sparkles. I’m not saying we need to out-disco the giant disco-like ball that drops in Times Square, but NYE is the time to be as shiny as you want to be! Flashy bandeau tops (MESHKI US, $79), mini dresses, and accessories galore. But hey, if sparkles aren’t your thing, go for the sleek and classic all-black look (ALTAR’D STATE, $90). Never hurts to ring in the new year with a crisp, clean-slated vibe.
- Strappy Diamante Top
- Sadie Layered Dress
Need more inspo? You’re in luck! This time of year, many popular shopping sites actually have dedicated “holiday outfit” pages to scroll through. Holiday-approved dresses, tops, bottoms, shoes, makeup, and accessories are all just waiting to be added to your cart. I can’t wait to see the festive fits you put together, besties. HCXO and happy holidays!