I’ve Cracked the Code on Holiday Dressing—Here's What to Wear for Every Occasion
You're welcome.
Friends! If this is going to be you from now until December 24, have I got a newsletter for you. This week, I’m offering up some outfit ideas for the various party dress codes you may encounter throughout the next month or so.
FESTIVE
This is undoubtedly the most broad of all seasonal dress codes. When I see “festive” on the invite, my mind immediately thinks of colors (silver, blue, red, green, gold) and fabrics (velvet, satin, sequin) that scream “holiday.” Take, for example, this metallic brocade dress. The fabric rises to the occasion, but can be tempered if you’re worried about looking too on-the-nose with a pair of chunky black boots and an oversized work jacket.
COCKTAIL OR SEMI-FORMAL
If you automatically think of a black dress when you read “cocktail” or “semi-formal,” why not try something else this season? A silky-chocolate brown, T-length dress is still code-appropriate. A leopard print clutch adds an unexpected dash of texture to the look.
OFFICE-APPROPRIATE
Most office holiday parties are pretty low-key these days, so feel free to wear denim. The trick is to dress it up a bit on top—I’m taking inspiration from the many fashion people I’ve seen wearing a tuxedo jacket and shirt recently. Satin flats also lend a luxe touch.
BLACK-TIE OPTIONAL
There are so few times in your life that you’ll get to wear a gown or proper tuxedo, so take this opportunity and really go the distance. Even if it’s not a mandate, why not? Life is short! Wear your finest.
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Nikki Ogunnaike is the Editor in Chief of Marie Claire US. She has previously held roles at Harper's Bazaar, GQ, ELLE, Glamour, InStyle, and Vanity Fair. You may also recognize Nikki from her time as the host of Snapchat’s Online, IRL and IGTV's The Run Through. Based in Brooklyn, New York, in her free time Nikki enjoys running half marathons, learning about wine, and watching reality TV without an ounce of shame. You can follow her at @nikkiogun.