Holiday gatherings with family and friends are fun, but planning outfits for each event can get tiring. What you wear to a friend’s party might not fit your office celebration or family dinner. So, where can you find inspiration?
Celebrities always offer stylish ideas, and holiday movies can spark creativity too. If you’re still unsure, we asked stylists and fashion influencers for their best holiday outfit tips, including accessories.
From standout suits to cozy classics, here are 14 stylist-approved holiday looks that will make a statement at any event.
Choose Something Red
Red is always a holiday favorite. Celebrity stylist Mickey Freeman suggests going for a classic red knit top and pencil skirt or a textured, mid-length red dress with embellishments. Trending this season are bold red sequin suits, retro wine-red velvet bodycon dresses, and casual red plaid shirt dresses, perfect with or without a belt.
Break Out a Bracket
Even if it’s cold, celebrity stylist Kate Young suggests trying a bra top for holiday parties. The underwear-as-outerwear trend is huge, even in winter. Young loves pairing a bra with a blazer and jeans for a casual yet sexy vibe, or under a suit for a bold, unexpected touch.
Feel Fancy in Faux Fur
Tobi’s head stylist, Joanna Angeles, says holiday outfits remind her of faux fur. She suggests wearing a knee-length coat with faux fur trim. Pair it with a fitted turtleneck, leather mini skirt or shorts, sheer tights, and knee-high boots. Add metallic accessories like a clutch or headband for a pop of sparkle. The look will feel luxe and festive.
Shine Bright in Sequins
“Sequins are the ultimate festive vibe,” says stylist Tiffany Briseno. Instead of the usual party dress, go modern. Try a matte sequin suit with ’70s platform sandals for a chic, fun look. For a twist, choose neutral colors like brown or camel.
Don’t Forget About Jewelry
Celebrity stylist Erin Walsh, in partnership with Pandora Jewelry, loves the idea of being “incidentally fabulous.” This means looking amazing, sparkly, and powerful, but in an effortless way. She achieves this by layering jewelry like pendant necklaces and stacking delicate earrings, such as Pandora’s diamond studs.
Walsh believes finding a versatile collection that works for both casual and holiday looks is key. This allows you to feel empowered whether you’re at a party, a meeting, or even just at home.
Wear Wide-Leg Trousers
Want comfort and style for the holidays? Go for wide-leg trousers. They’re flattering on all body types and super comfy, perfect for a dinner party. Pair them with a romantic-sleeved top and bold earrings in festive jewel tones for a polished look that lasts all night.
Swap Dress Pants for Cargo Styles
Cargo pants are super popular right now, and the trend isn’t going anywhere. Stylist Naina Singla says most people think of them as casual, but you can easily dress them up by picking different fabrics. She loves wearing refined cargo pants during the holidays. Satin or leather versions can be paired with a cashmere sweater for a chic, cozy vibe, or with a sequin cami or blazer for a more festive look.
Add Leather for Texture
You might think about wearing sequins and pearls this holiday season, but celebrity stylist Sonia Young suggests going for faux leather. She says there are great options like faux and patent leather pants that work well for both day and night. They’re a must-have for your holiday wardrobe. One of her top picks is the Commando Patent Leather Leggings. You can dress them up for the office with an oversized sweater and loafers, or style them for a dinner date with a blazer and heels.
Elevate Loungewear
If you want to stay comfy this holiday season, you can dress up your loungewear. Try adding heels to your favorite pajamas. Young says, “What’s better than enjoying a glass of wine in your PJs?” She loves brands like Olivia Von Halle, Sleeper, and Morgan Lane.
While red, white, and green are classic holiday colors, JLUXLABEL co-founder Teresa Jaide suggests mixing it up. “We usually go for rich emerald green or ruby red velvets. This year, we’re adding a new favorite: midnight blue for a touch of elegance.”
Say “Yes” to Slip Dresses
Rebecca Clarke, head of design at Nasty Gal, says slip dresses are essential in every wardrobe. For the holidays, she loves slip dresses with ruched sides, inspired by the late ’90s and Y2K style. She describes this look as a mix of streetwear and glamour, perfect for the festive season.
Suit Up
Three-piece suits are becoming more popular. That’s why Singla recommends a white or ivory set for the holidays. She says, “A lightweight wool suit with a blazer, vest, and trousers looks polished and elegant.”
Make It Metallic
Style expert Katie Sands, who hosts Amazon Live, loves metallic looks for the holidays. This year, she’s into metallic suit sets. They give off a powerful vibe while feeling festive. Pair them with any nude or black boots, or try a kitten heel and a bralette for a chic touch.
Consider a Blazer Dress
Celebrity stylist Amanda Sanders loves blazer dresses for switching from work to holiday parties. She suggests pairing them with suede over-the-knee boots and silver drop earrings. Add a statement ring, a moto jacket, and a suede bucket bag with silver hardware to complete the look. These items are stylish staples for winter and beyond.
Opt for Emerald
If you don’t have much red in your closet or don’t like it, try wearing emerald green this holiday season. Personal stylist Allie McKenna says red is a classic choice, but it can feel a bit predictable. Emerald green is festive and adds a fresh touch!
