Sure, a little black dress or Le Smoking suit is always on par for the party scene, but who says holiday dressing has to be so cut and dry? From velvet suits to silky slip dresses, here are 13 not so basic ideas for switching it up and looking festive this season.
1. Gold Rush
Metallics act as the ultimate neutral on the holiday party circuit. Take the hue to new heights with a pair of silky, wide-leg gold pants styled with a sheer metallic blouse à la Issa Rae.
2. Naughty or Nice?
Take note from Olivia Palermo and mix a sheer metallic top with a deep burgundy skirt. Add an unexpected twist to the look with a shade of deep blue or green lipstick.
3. ‘Tis The Sequin
Skip the full-on sequin dress and instead work the festive beads into your look with one statement-making piece like Solange’s pants, Nicole Richie’s sleeves, or Sara Foster’s skirt.
4. Tuxedo Dressing
Gabrielle Union’s off-the-shoulder tuxedo dress sets the bar high for your office’s holiday cocktail party.
5. All Wrapped Up
Go for green in a festive but sexy wrap dress that leaves way for some major accessorizing.
6. An LBD with a Twist
While you can never go wrong with a classic little black dress, give the staple wardrobe item a refresh with some feather or sheer detailing as spotted on Hailey Baldwin, Jourdan Dunn, and Kate Bosworth.
7. Santa Baby
A deep red silk dress feels equal parts sexy and festive for any party this season. Hailey Baldwin takes the look to the next level with a pair of matching lace-up heels.
8. Winter Florals
Take fall and winter’s floral trend into the holiday season with a full-length frock that’s timeless and festive in its own right.
9. The Velveteen Suit
Trade in your classic Le Smoking for a suit done in all velvet. Take the look the festive route by opting for a deep red or green color like Cindy Kimberly and Cate Blanchett or keep it sleek and sexy in all-black as seen on Zendaya.
10. All That Glitters
From your Christmas parties to New Year’s Eve, a full-on sequin dress instantly becomes the life of any party.
11. Verlot Merry
A shade of deep merlot still feels festive without straying too far from your go-to black uniform.
12. Leather and Lace
Pair a lace blouse with a leather mini skirt for the ultimate naughty-meets-nice contrast.
13. Deck The Halls
And when all else fails, go bold or go home in a sizzling red sequin look. If you’re not on Naomi Campbell’s level of rocking a full-length gown, opt for a short cocktail version of the look.
