The holiday season is stressful enough – you have to buy sweet, thoughtful, personal gifts for everyone ranging from close family to your son’s new girlfriend, who you’ve only met once, all while cooking dinners and chasing people for RSVPs. Fortunately, there’s no need to stress over what you’re going to wear to your amazing party because whether it’s a casual family get-together or a formal work function, we’ve got you covered.
Business
It’s that time of year where all your hard work is being rewarded, all your co-workers are drinking company-provided wine, and everyone is trying to find out who gifted the folding lawn chair in the annual game of Yankee Swap. This is the occasion to ditch your more formal work wear for a festive flair, all while maintaining your level of professionalism and style.
For most business parties, you’re going to need to be a little more dressed than you would be with your family but, remember, you aren’t on your way to a coronation – have some fun with your fashion! Red and green are the colours of the season, but wearing both at the same time can often result in a tacky mashup. Instead, opt for just one of the two colours: red, if you’re looking to stand out with a statement; and green, if you’d prefer to just relax and have a good time.
Fitted midi-dresses (dresses that hit midway between the knee and ankle) are often a great choice for these events, and stores like Nordstrom’s often have many professional, fun options available. To complete the ensemble, pair your dress with some gold jewellery to bring some warmth to the winter cold, and finish the look with some black stockings and a low-heeled shoe.
Social
It’s your best friend’s holiday celebration, which means you’re not going to be dressed for the office, but you can’t be quite be as casual as you would be with family. This party is your chance to take some fashion risks, make some bold choices, and stand out in every holiday photo.
While business attire leans on a more conservative edge, here you can let your hair down (literally or figuratively). Wear a bold pair of brightly-coloured or shimmery heels (like the ones you bought for your daughter’s wedding and haven’t worn since), or an equally festive pair of flats, if you’re prone to ankle injuries. To show them off, pair them with a mid-length skirt or wide-legged pants, plus a shimmery/brightly-coloured belt to complement the shoes and your personality. To complete the look, pair the skirt with a simple white sweater to keep you toasty while sipping hot buttered rum punch and taking photos.
Family
This is the one you’ve been waiting for: kids and grandkids all gathered around, laughing over memories and tossing balled-up wrapping paper at each other while sticking bows on the family dog. For those of you who want to be comfortable, this is the opportunity, but without sacrificing your fashion sense.
Normally, jeans are a big “no-no” at any kind of holiday party, but a dark-wash pair free of rips and stains can be incredibly stylish (as well as appropriate) for more casual affairs. Pair them with an oh-so-trendy wrap-sweater and decorative flats, as well as a sentimental or holiday-themed piece of jewelry to remain chic while spending time with the people you love most in life. If you would like to dress up a bit more, wear heels instead of flats, and a sequinned top under a neutral blazer or jacket to really show off your festive spirit.
Make your fashion as hot as cocoa this holiday season!
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