Six Holiday Outfits for Every Occasion

Anna R.
December 6, 2024

See, the thing about me is I’ll take any reason to dress up—especially if it’s during the holidays. I like to keep my schedule packed with things: tea times, cocktails, dinners, ballets, shopping. If you can imagine it, I’m doing it, and well-dressed might I add. But I hear from a lot of people—as fun as this time of year is, it can also be daunting trying to find something to wear. Well, babes, look no further, because I’m throwing some fits together for you.

Collage showcasing chic holiday outfits and accessories, featuring modern edgy goth-inspired looks with plaid skirts, black dresses, festive berets, and bold red hats. Includes details like a green coat paired with a black dress, intricate hair accessories, and a mix of casual and formal styling for winter celebrations.
Some of my holiday outfits over the years.

Some Things to Consider

Listen, I hate to say it, but I usually plan my outfits this time of year around my footwear. I don’t want to be in uncomfortable shoes if I’m at a party or in a place where I might be standing or moving around a lot. Now, cocktails or a dinner? I can tolerate some discomfort for that. I also try to keep the weather in mind as much as possible. It’s hard, though, because I can be incredibly impractical. But you won’t see me wearing suede boots in the snow—I fear damaging them far too much.

I like to go big when it comes to this season: bold jewelry, fun textures, bold colors. Now’s the time, babe. I love it all, but it’s also a balancing act. You don’t want your pieces to compete—you want them to work together.

The other thing I try to consider when dressing (always) is the undergarments I’m wearing. I love a nice supportive undergarment—they just make me feel so much more confident and comfortable in what I’m wearing. The best thing you can do for your wardrobe is get properly fitting and supportive undergarments. I’m a big fan of getting a bra fitting every year and buying ones that actually support me. I also love a shapewear situation that smooths things out—it helps keep everything streamlined and makes the garment look so much better.

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Collage featuring Fran Fine's iconic jeweled black outfit from 'The Nanny' alongside a modern holiday outfit recreation. Includes a bejeweled sweater, black patent Mary Jane heels, a white turtleneck, a black mini skirt, gold chain accessories, a velvet clutch, black tights, and a bottle of L’Or de Louis perfume for a chic and festive look.
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Extravagant Sweaters
Of course, Fran Fine is always a style inspo, but something about her fashion really warms my heart around the holidays. She has a number of jeweled sweaters, like this one from Michael Simon. If you aren’t familiar, Michael Simon makes some of the best sweaters. The one here can be found on eBay. These are all so tacky and camp—just what the season calls for.

Collage featuring Meghan Markle's bold red monochromatic outfit alongside a modern styling recreation. Includes a red YSL clutch, gold sculptural earrings, red slingback heels, a faux leather midi skirt, a fitted red square-neck top, gold chain-link jewelry, and a bottle of Gris Chanel perfume for an elegant and polished look.
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Peppermint Red
It is the color of the season, after all. This year, I’m really leaning into big, bold cherry red. I love it because you can go kitschy or sleek and modern with it. I also think it can look really striking if done monochromatically. Plus, let’s be honest—red is just fucking hot.

Collage inspired by runway fashion featuring a modern twist on a dramatic, edgy look. Includes a black satin camisole, structured black blazer, wide-leg black trousers, pearl-heeled pumps, a layered pearl necklace, a bottle of Dries Van Noten perfume, and a feathered clutch bag for a bold, sophisticated statement.
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Pearls, Pearls, Pearls
There’s something about pearls that just feels like a subtle nod to the holidays. But what I love most is how versatile they are. They’re not just for December; they work year-round and can add a timeless charm to any look. Style them right, and they can even feel a little subversive. They look amazing with both silver and gold, so double the pleasure....or whatever. 

Collage inspired by Dita Von Teese's glamorous emerald green velvet gown with blush details. Features a modern recreation with a green velvet dress, gold and emerald statement ring, black slingback heels, a festive Christmas tree-shaped clutch, gold cross earrings, and Basilico & Fellini perfume for a vintage-inspired holiday look.
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Luxe in Velvet
Velvet is the ultimate cold-weather luxe fabric. It’s effortlessly elevated and looks stunning in just about every color. That said, I have a real soft spot for it in deep, rich tones like forest green, burgundy, and teal—they just hit differently this time of year. It’s one of those fabrics that always makes you look like you tried, even if you didn’t.

Collage inspired by a punk-meets-prep runway look featuring a plaid patchwork mini skirt. Includes a black turtleneck, silver chain necklace, edgy leather belt, black beret, pointed-toe black ankle boots with red soles, opaque black tights, and L'Artisan Parfumeur fragrance for a bold, modern aesthetic
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Patterns of Plaid
One of the coolest things about plaid is its versatility. It works in pretty much any color and can be dressed up or down effortlessly. Whether you’re going for cozy and casual or polished and chic, plaid always delivers. I’ve always admired the sophistication and edge of Vivienne Westwood—her designs found a way to elevate the pattern into something bold and unexpected. It’s the perfect balance for corporate babes who still want to channel a bit of rebellion.

Collage inspired by retro 1960s fashion featuring colorful mini dresses and bold tights. Modern recreation includes a black cardigan, vintage-style gold pendant necklace, structured black handbag, floral perfume bottle, black patent Mary Jane heels, red tights, a gold chain bracelet, and a classic black mini dress for a chic, retro-inspired look.
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Legs in Technicolor
This is something I’m really challenging myself to try more of because it’s just so fun and feels like a trend lost to time. There’s something so cheeky about throwing on a pair of bright tights—they instantly make an outfit more interesting. I especially love them styled in a mod way. It’s playful, a little retro, and just feels right.

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Collage of festive outfits inspired by holiday and winter themes, featuring retro and modern styles from TV shows and movies. Includes a glamorous red dress, a chic green suit, a luxurious blue fur-trimmed gown, an embellished holiday sweater, a plaid skating outfit with a beret, and vintage holiday fashion paired with Santa decor.
Some of my fav pop culture holiday looks.