What to Wear to Every Type of Holiday Party
By Nicole Akhtarzad
While attending to festive holiday parties is one of our favorite parts of the season, when you don’t know what to wear, the experience quickly goes from fun to stressful. That’s where we come in. We’ve broken down the spectrum of holiday parties into six main categories, and provided you with a celeb-inspired outfit suggestion for each.
1. Work
Jacopo Raule/GC Images
The easiest way to put together an appropriate outfit for your office holiday party? Opt for colorful pieces that you wouldn’t necessarily wear every day. Team a bright coat or jacket with an equally bold skirt and fun heels for a look that could go straight from work to the event.
Cos Crossover Wool Coat in Cobalt Blue
Mango Pleated Midi Skirt in Bordeaux
2. Your Own
Andrew H. Walker/WireImage
As the host of the party, you’ll want to stand out but maintain the ability to bend, run around, and move easily. The solution? A full-length, printed jumpsuit. The fashion-forward choice doesn’t need much accessorizing, so you’ll have more time to focus on your guests.
SEA Leo Printed Stretch-Silk Jumpsuit
Related: Hosting a Dinner Party? Here’s What You Should Be Wearing
3. Friends
Paul Zimmerman/Getty Images
If there’s one party where you can release your inner fashion girl, it’s the one your good friends are throwing. No need to worry about a classic party outfit here. We suggest a sleek suit (or tuxedo) to achieve a cool-girl party-ready look that your pals will surely appreciate.
Karl Lagerfeld Emilia Wool Pique Blazer and Straight-Leg Pants
4. His Family
Xposure/AKM-GSI
For your date/boyfriend/husband’s family’s holiday party, we suggest opting for a feminine and classic dress in an on-trend print. Choose an A-line style, shirtdress, or off-the-shoulder silhouette (or check out any of these) and pair your frock with pumps or fancy flats for a polished result.
Reformation Charlie Dress in Rosalia
Related: Experts Weigh In: Is Your First Date Attire All Wrong?
5. Your Family
ACE/INFphoto.com
At your own relatives’ parties, you can get away with more adventurous pieces—although you’ll still want to respect the host and the occasion. Try leather trousers or track pants styled with a ladylike jacket for a cool contrast.
10 Crosby Derek Lam Tweed Cutout-Back Cropped Jacket
6. With Kids
REX USA/Willi Schneider/Rex
If you’re attending a holiday party with your kids or your nieces or nephews—any soiree that may require occasionally running around after them—go with comfortable footwear and something you can move in. A polka-dot blouse paired with relaxed trousers and platform oxfords is a playful, festive look, but still very child-friendly.
Suno Polka Dot Shirt
Mango Platform Oxford Shoes
Related: The Only 5 Holiday Style Staples You REALLY Need This Year
More From Who What Wear:
Holiday Shopping Hacks to Make Your Life Easier
4 Stylish Ways to Cover Up at Formal Holiday Events
Meeting His Parents This Holiday Season? 5 Style Rules to Keep in Mind
