when it comes to dressing this time of year, i feel like there are four main categories that most holiday garments fall into -either velvet, bow-adorned, sequined, or plaid. to me, if you have one or all of these items in your closet, you’re prepped and ready to create outfits for everything from thanksgiving dinner to new year’s eve. if you haven’t quite snagged the perfect piece to wear to that upcoming holiday party or christmas brunch, i’ve rounded up my favorites from each category, with commentary on how to style a few of the pieces!

 

velvet

of all of the trends on this list, i find myself most drawn to velvet this season. while i still have yet to purchase something made of the lux fabric, i’m waiting for this cami to go on super sale so i can scoop it up. i love the mustard color. i’d wear it with a pair of skinny jeans (or maybe even my flares from this post), booties, and a leather jacket. another top i have my eye on is this crushed velvet tee. i love the idea of pairing it with a black skinny jean, and a leopard print jacket. velvet is also a great way to step up your accessories! you can swap out the belt of your belted cardigan for a velvet version, add a velvet bow to your pony tail, or put an accent on your outfit with a velvet choker.

 

 

bow-adorned

 

if you’ve been reading for a while, you know i love a good bow detail. and while bows aren’t strictly limited to the holiday season, i always find myself gravitating toward them especially this time of year (maybe it’s because they look like a present?!). my favorite bow trend this season actually combines the trend from above as well –these adorable velvet bow hair ties from j.crew. adding one to adorn your ponytail would be the perfect accent to a holiday look. pair with this lbd for evening or this striped sweater dress for day.

 

 

sequins/sparkle

perhaps the least demure of the four trends for the holidays is sequins and/or sparkle. looking like a walking disco ball is definitely not for the faint of heart, but if done tastefully, it’s a great way to get into the holiday spirit -especially as we inch closer to new year’s eve. the gold sequin top shown above has been in my closet for coming up on a decade now and yet, i can’t seem to part with it. i always find a reason to bring it out this time of year, often opting to wear it with a black skirt and tights for an easy holiday party ensemble. if the thought of wearing that many sequins makes you feel a little like liberace, glittered accessories are a great alternative -like a clutch or a flat or tennis shoe. but if you’re ready to fully embrace the glitz and glam, this dress is absolutely stunning (seen on liz here).

 

 

plaid

after a big closet overhaul last year and committing to a more streamlined neutral closet, i ended up donating or consigning all of my plaid pieces. BUT that doesn’t mean i don’t still have lots of affection for this festive fabric! the great thing about plaid is that it comes in a spectrum of colors. i tend to be partial to a buffalo-check, but tartan will always give me christmas vibes. pajamas are a perfect way to get your plaid fix (this matching set would be perfect for christmas eve!), but i’m also loving the idea of this swing top with a pair of light-wash denim and black booties for a cool holiday look.

 

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