when it comes to dressing for the holidays, i think there’s a natural tendency to default to your token party dress. perhaps it’s an LBD or something with a little sparkle? while you certainly can’t go wrong with a festive frock, sometimes it’s fun to test drive a new look, right? so just in time for the season, i’ve come up with three alternative formulas if you’re looking to mix it up a bit for the christmas party circuit this year.
lace pants + button down + loafer/mule
earlier last month, i ordered a pair of lace pull-on trousers in anticipation of the holiday season. unfortunately, the particular style was a miss for me (i ran in between sizes) but i’m still not entirely unconvinced i won’t be able to find an alternative pair to create this tomboy look. i love the idea of pairing a feminine piece (lace) with a more structured one (crisp button-down) and finishing it off with these season’s hottest shoe (which also leans toward the masculine side of the spectrum). this pair of separates would be perfect for a festive brunch or for casual cocktails with friends.
velvet top + boyfriend jeans + block heel
need an easy holiday-inspired look for christmas morning (at least in our families) or a casual gift exchange among friends? this formula is for you! grab a velvet top, your favorite boyfriend jeans (or skinnies if you prefer those, of course), and a low heel for just a touch of glam. in its purest form, it’s essentially a t-shirt and jeans, which is always a no-fail combination in my opinion. while i do enjoy a good dressy outfit every now and then, i’ve come to realize that a casual and more importantly, comfortable look can really do wonders for my mood. in all honesty, i stray from most holiday parties since the pomp and circumstance gives me immense anxiety, so if i were to attend one, i’d want to at least be in an outfit that made me feel most confident and like myself.
statement skirt + chunky knit + tassel earrings
finally, the most girly girl of the three looks incorporates one of my favorite ways to wear a skirt this time of year –with a cozy sweater! when i wear a skirt that deserves to take center stage, i usually keep the rest of the outfit pretty demure. in this instance, this polka dot beauty from shabby apple (available in plaid) is the show-stopper, so i would pair it with a neutral knit, and matching tassel earrings. the great thing about a maxi skirt is that you can really get away with wearing a more casual shoe underneath (as long as the heel height doesn’t make the skirt drag on the ground). i’d probably go for a shorter heel for this look (these nude heels are my go-tos), but you could totally pair a heeled bootie or even an over-the-knee boot with the outfit if you’re looking for a little extra warmth (otk boots are almost tights if you really think about it).
