What to Wear to a Holiday Party — Outfit Guide

Dress Code

Check the invitation. 'Festive attire' usually means cocktail with seasonal flair. Office parties skew business casual to cocktail. Formal holiday events lean toward black tie optional.

Do

Embrace seasonal textures: velvet, satin, sequins (in moderation), wool blends
Lean into rich, deep colors that photograph well under warm lighting
Add one shimmery or metallic piece (earrings, bag, shoes) for a festive touch
Wear comfortable shoes — holiday parties run long and involve standing
Layer for the journey: a structured coat that complements your outfit

Don't

Wear anything you can't sit, eat, and dance in for hours
Go full novelty (ugly sweaters belong at ugly sweater parties only)
Drown in sequins head to toe — pick one statement piece
Wear all red and green together unless it's intentionally costumed
Forget that office holiday parties are still work events

Best Colors

Burgundy

The unofficial color of the holidays. Rich, warm, and instantly festive.

Emerald

Jewel-toned and luxurious. Pairs beautifully with gold accessories.

Midnight Blue

A modern alternative to black that looks expensive under candlelight.

Black

Always appropriate. Dress it up with metallic accessories or a satin finish.

Champagne

Subtle sparkle without being loud. Flattering on every skin tone.

Plum

Deep, sophisticated, and unexpected. A great way to stand out without being flashy.

Outfit Ideas

Festive Cocktail

A burgundy or emerald velvet midi dress with metallic heels and gold drop earrings.

Office Party Polished

Dark wool trousers, a silk blouse in a jewel tone, a fitted blazer, and pointed-toe flats.

The Modern Tux Look

A black or midnight blue suit with a satin lapel, white shirt, and a velvet bow tie or pocket square.

Casual Festive

Dark jeans, a fine-knit cashmere sweater in a deep color, ankle boots, and a structured wool coat.

Seasonal Note

Holiday parties are concentrated in November and December. Go warmer in fabric (velvet, wool, cashmere) and deeper in color than you would the rest of the year.

Pro Tip

One velvet piece (blazer, dress, or trousers) carries every holiday event. It photographs richly, feels formal without being stiff, and reads as effortlessly seasonal.

Frequently Asked Questions

What colors should I wear to a holiday party?

Burgundy: The unofficial color of the holidays. Rich, warm, and instantly festive. Emerald: Jewel-toned and luxurious. Pairs beautifully with gold accessories. Midnight Blue: A modern alternative to black that looks expensive under candlelight. Black: Always appropriate. Dress it up with metallic accessories or a satin finish. Champagne: Subtle sparkle without being loud. Flattering on every skin tone. Plum: Deep, sophisticated, and unexpected. A great way to stand out without being flashy.

What should I NOT wear to a holiday party?

Wear anything you can't sit, eat, and dance in for hours. Go full novelty (ugly sweaters belong at ugly sweater parties only). Drown in sequins head to toe — pick one statement piece. Wear all red and green together unless it's intentionally costumed. Forget that office holiday parties are still work events.