Repost From Rent.com: What to Wear: The Ultimate Holiday Party Dress Code Guide

POV: You’re getting ready for a holiday party, look in the mirror, and say to yourself, “I have nothing to wear.” Don’t worry, we’ve all been there, which is why we’ve created this guide. Whether you’re hosting a night of Hannukah in your rental home in Portland, OR, planning an NYE pregame at your apartment in Denver, CO, going to your office holiday party, or having Christmas dinner in your Essex, MD home, we have you covered – literally!

While we’ll get into the particulars and provide lots of fashion inspo, a good rule of thumb is to remember the details. You may even have something already in your closet and not need to go out and buy a new outfit! For example, Fashion Fix’s Lindsey Froemming tells us to “Keep it festive with textures like cable knit, sequins, or cashmere, or incorporate things like bows, ties, and other whimsical details.” Whether you’re hosting or attending, be sure to pick something you feel confident in this holiday season.

Festive casual

One of the most common dress codes you’re likely to encounter this season is none other than festive casual.

“Festive casual dress code brings the warmth of the holiday season to your holiday party with outfits that align with cozy, cheerful vibes,” says Leather Skin Shop’s head of design Erik Sanchez. 

“A casual holiday party invite is a great time to wear any elevated pants- say faux leather, coated black denim, or trouser-style black denim,” says Seasons Embraced’s Bev and Val. If leather is your thing, Erik suggests “pairing a cozy beige cable knit sweater with a red plaid skirt, black sheer leggings, and a stylish customized leather jacket.” You can even “personalize the jacket with sparkly stonework or classic Christmas motifs embroidery, such as reindeer, snowflakes, or mistletoe,” adds Eric. 

If you’re more into dresses and skirts, consider pairing “a slip dress with a sweater – a perfect choice at this time of year for holiday dinners- Hanukkah and New Year’s included,” suggest Bev and Val. When “looking for a dress to wear to a holiday cocktail party or other festive event [opt for dresses that are] comfortable and easy to style,” they add.

If you want to go even more festive like Polka Dot Pixie Shop, “Consider classic statement Christmas sweatshirts with your favorite characters or holiday movie quotes,” say Rochelle and Melanie. The “lighthearted statement apparel can keep the mood fun and conversations will be easy to stir up,” they add. For a more casual event, they suggest pairing the sweatshirt with “jeans, cozy socks ( for the shoe-free home), a Santa hat, and jingle bell earrings if you’re feeling over the top or want to just look amazing standing next to the bar cart.”

 

Festive cocktail

Moving to a fancier dress code, you may find yourself with an invite to a holiday party, corporate event, or NYE celebration with this standard. For this dress code, sticking to “luxe velvet, sparkle, and faux fur pieces [will] effortlessly elevate any look and add elegance and seasonal charm,” says SAACHI copywriter Carly Giacoio. 

“Whether it’s a velvet capelet, a fur wrap, or a crystal-embellished cardigan, layering these statement pieces enhances your outfit and boosts your confidence, keeping you looking polished and put together with ease. A vibrant statement piece, like pearl beads or crystals, brings that extra wow factor, reflecting the season’s colors and ensuring you shine at every holiday event,” continues Carly.

 

Holiday work party

Speaking of corporate events, you may have a holiday work party on your calendar this season. Although it’s best to remain appropriate and professional, it doesn’t mean you can’t have fun with your outfit!

“Keep it office-appropriate for your holiday work party. Business festive events call for dresses, slacks or suits, and button-down shirts—all with a bit of holiday flair. Think a red sweater dress or a fun Christmas tie. (Gentlemen, even if you don’t wear a necktie daily, consider tying one on. A classic red and green striped tie will be eye-catching and dress code appropriate.) Not feeling bold enough for a bright red or green dress? Subtle yet festive shades like burgundy or hunter green are a wonderful alternative,” says Tiemart’s Amanda Droppleman.

 

 

Winter wedding

There’s nothing like the beauty of a winter wedding, and although every wedding’s dress code differs, we have some pointers for you! Kelsey Mina recommends “always leaning into the dressier side of the dress code so you don’t feel underdressed. For men, a dark suit or tux. Ladies, this is the perfect time to whip out a floor-length gown in a festive fabric like velvet,” she says. When in doubt, “lean into the holiday with bows, velvet, and Fair Isle prints,” suggests Kelsey.

Black tie vs. white tie

If your holiday event calls for black-tie or white-tie, we understand this can be a difficult one to sort out. Don’t panic, we’ll help you find the perfect outfit to have you looking and feeling your best.

“Black tie is formal and elegant — think tuxedos with black bow ties for men and floor-length gowns for women,” says Prime Neckwear’s Christopher Ellis. “Think gold, black, white, and other bold but settled colors,” adds Menschions co-founder Rebecca Schwitz.

“White tie takes it up a notch, with tailcoats, white bow ties, and gloves for men, while women wear the most formal evening gowns with sophisticated jewelry,” describes Ellis. Rebecca says that “If an event calls for “white tie” attire, it’s time to shine. Think Gatsby or “Eras Tour” because you can still make the whole place shimmer.”