The Ultimate Holiday Party Style Guide
This is the season where fashion game gets serious, as large social events present the perfect excuse to dress up and showcase newest additions the closet. While we all have our trusted staples, the dress pulled out every year –only to collect dust the rest of the time – might not make the cut anymore. And so, begins the quest to buy, borrow, thrift new outfits, just in time for the upcoming gathering. The requirements are simple: stylish, warm but also comfortable, possibly with some buttons or a zip to undo after a large meal.In case you’re looking for inspiration, we have provided a holiday party style guide with all of the season’s must-havesto ensure the best dressed title at the next family function.
Everything Burgundy
Burgundy makes a comeback as the IT colour of the season, especially for the holidays, with its rich hues being both elegant and festive. From dresses to maxi skirts to accent bagsand fluffy knits, the deep red tones can be incorporated in anypiece, whether as the focal point or in the accessories. Also consider all burgundy monotone looks: lately trending on social media with influencer Madeleine White showcasing astunning ensemble featuring a long coat, silk baby-doll dress, kitten heels and tights all in burgundy tones.
Play With Textures — Velvet, Silk, and Lace
Velvet is a classic every year and for good reason, it never misses. Warm, luxurious, cozy, it is the perfect fabric for the holidays, always proving to be the star of the show. However, to spice things up, try mixing different textures – think velvet dress paired with lace detailed tights, or silk maxi skirt with a chunky woollen knit. Silk and lace seem to be all the latest rage, a tried and tested combo that is stylish, sexy and festive, especially for late night celebrations.
Add Some Sparkle
When it comes to New Years, glitters and sequins are mandatory but how not to make it tacky? A sequin or glittery, Paco Rabanne inspired mini skirt is a valid option, adding asubtle sparkle to the outfit without overdoing it. Another option is incorporating some shine through statementaccessories like diamond encrusted studs, cute glittery hairclips or a shimmering evening clutch. And if you’re a maximalist, go all out: a sequined New Years dress is always a hit!
A Statement (Fur) Coat
While looking good is always the priority, being warm is also essential, given the frosty nights these functions are usuallyheld through. The key is to wear a thick warm coat that allowsfor a skimpy dress underneath; once indoors, the cold won’t be an issue, as a lit fire and a glass of red wine will ensure you remain warm throughout the evening. The perfect candidate? A fur (preferably faux or thrifted) coat: an unrivalled statement piece that will keep your body snug while channelling your inner Carrie Bradshaw rocking up toChristmas dinner.
Bows, Bows, and More Bows!
The final must-have for the holiday season is anything with bows. This trend has been a recent hit, with high street stores incorporating it in their festive collections. From sparklycardigans with bow closures to silky dresses featuring large bows on the neckline to accessories with ribbon bows like hair ties and heels. If you want to embody the festive spirit and feel like a glamourous Christmas present, this is the way to go.
Hope this gave you an abundance of inspiration for all of thelast-minute holiday outfit shopping about to take place. And if still stuck on what to wear, just re-wear the dress, it’s really not a big deal – the copious amount of food will distract everyone from remembering that you’ve been wearing it for the past five years.