Every year, the anticipation of the holiday season seems to start earlier and earlier, and then suddenly, it's arrived, and you're short on time, burnt out with last-minute work demands, and haven't got a thing to wear. We love a reason to celebrate: clinking fizzy glasses of champagne, dressed to the nines in black-tie or cocktail attire, but piecing together all of the components of festive holiday party looks can feel overwhelming, especially when you have back-to-back commitments. But gearing up for a glitzy night out or night in (if you're the one hosting) should, at its core, be all about having fun and feeling like your best self. Dressing the part is often about formulaic styling tips and tricks that can transform your winter wear into party wear. Luxe fabrics (in sophisticated silhouettes), festive accessories, and maybe a fun new hat to throw into the mix will carry you through New Year's Eve. Have a flawlessly-fitted black blazer at home? Add a vintage-esque feathery plume brooch. Are heels just not in the cards this year? Opt for an embellished ballet flat or a sleek loafer instead. Here's how to master any last-minute holiday party outfit.
Velvet is a timeless and elegant fabric choice for any holiday gathering.
In many ways, velvet is synonymous with special occasion wear, especially in the colder months, considering the fabric's weight and hand feel. Worn right, and there's no other material that proves as regal. But unlike centuries ago when the fabric was worn exclusively by clergy members and nobility, today's velvets are taken far less seriously, available in a wide array of colors and prints— encouraging a sense of whimsy. To keep your velvets fun yet elevated, layer a piece or two with a grounding fabric, like wool, add a quirky accessory, or mix a pop of color with neutrals.
Luxe-looking feathers add a festive touch to any piece.
Historically, wearing feathers was much like wearing fur, and there were two camps—love it or leave it. But with eco-friendly alternatives on the rise and kindred silhouettes like the Yeti coat style, you don't have to compromise your party style or values. Which is excellent news, because what's a party without a little plume? If you don't love an attention-grabbing look, you can feel out the right amount of feathers for you— from adding a feather brooch (like this one, which is a great, very affordable option) to a full-on feather look.
They may seem summery, but a floral brocade or a silk or satin floral motif can add a romantic touch to your holiday outfit.
Winter's florals are a bit different than their warmer weather counterparts—a bit more subdued, moodier, and more abstract than the maximalist blooms of spring and summer. For holiday wear, a bud or full bloom is also a great accompaniment to festive fabrics like metallics and silks. While brocade and embellished florals err on the fancier side, they're still ideally suited for everyday wear, so you don't have to run home or tote around an extra change of clothes for the holiday office party. Go from day to play without missing a beat—because who has time for weekday outfit changes?
Metallics are an easy way to add shine to an otherwise neutral palette.
You can achieve a wide range of shine with metallics. Sequins are sewn on flat, and palettes are sewn on at an angle (meant to dangle and dance) and are universally beloved as party wear. But many other options exist, like metallic hardware, accessories, and even a metallic-coated fabric. Each offers a great in-between scenario when you’re not fully committed to a full-on sparkle look. While silver and gold are much like a neutral and a perfect pairing alongside any print or color, metallic prints — like florals and paisleys— are also a great way to wear the trend. Plus, anything metallic almost always doubles as cocktail attire.
There's no print more festive than plaid—an easy way to embrace the season with outerwear and accessories.
A very last-minute invite just hit your inbox for a party. Don't panic, and don't run to the nearest ugly Christmas sweater depot; instead, opt for something festive-adjacent and something you'll wear again. How about plaid? From a plaid blazer that looks right at home near a fireplace to a preppy-forward plaid loafer that's also practical, plaid is a surefire way to get in the holiday spirit.
