Forget the Party Dress—These Elegant Pants Are the Answer to Holiday Dressing
Thank you, Chan Luu, Kallmeyer, and Dôen!
The holiday party dress has long been the default for festive occasions, but this season, the most compelling holiday outfits are taking a more modern approach. Enter elegant evening pants: a sophisticated alternative to the predictable cocktail or sequinned dress that feels every bit as celebratory. From fluid silk trousers and lustrous satin to embellished wide-leg silhouettes and editor-loved taffeta favorites, the best holiday party pants prove that dressing for the occasion doesn't always have to mean wearing a dress.
And while classic black tailored trousers always have their place in our wardrobes, both before and during the holiday season, this assortment is as expressive as the new crop of evening bags. Think rich burgundy satin, intricate brocade, plush velvet, delicate beading, and sculptural silhouettes that bring a sense of occasion to even the simplest outfit—just add a knit and go the Jenna Lyons route!
Pair any of these trousers, from Chan Luu to J.Crew, with a barely-there camisole, a sharply tailored blazer, or a fine-gauge cashmere knit; they'll do all the heavy lifting for you. Whether you're dressing for an intimate holiday dinner, an office party, or a glam New Year's Eve, consider this your formal invitation to give the party dress a well-deserved night off.
These would be especially elegant with pointed kitten-heels peeking past the cuffs.
An effortless, cropped pair that feel more like pajamas.
Fall in love with Chan Luu's cult-favorite Techno pants, cast in a semi-sheer taffeta. Festive!
Pair with a draped blouse or a slinky knit for an elevated ensemble.
Under-$500 for the holiday season? Don't mind if I do!
Dôen's Lavona pants are equal parts skirt and pant—tuck in a slender blouse to accentuate the waist detail.
It's not the holiday season without a pair (or two) of velvet trousers.
For the hopeless romantic, look to Dôen's lace-trimmed silk pants.
I still prefer black for the holiday's, and The Row, of course, delivers.
These Staud trousers are quintessentially festive—wear them with pared-back basics.
For the maximalist, these printed Dries pants will make the perfect statement, without being too on the nose.
Have you visited J.Crew lately? Their holiday collection just dropped, and it's filled with festive gems that won't break the bank.
A rich, satin-trimmed trouser with an attached fringe belt? Yes, please.
Winter whites has never looked so good.
For holiday soirees, look to these brocade trousers from Anna Sui.
