Between cookie exchanges, office holiday gatherings and lots of parties with friends, our calendars are pretty much booked from now through the end of 2023. And we plan on dressing up for every festive occasion—yes, even those cozy Elf screenings at home. We’ve found that slipping into a fun (and hopefully sparkly) ensemble is an easy way to help beat the winter blues, so why not go all out? ‘Tis the season after all. In that spirit, here are 28 holiday party outfits to inspire your wardrobe from now to January 1. (No judgements here if you end up buying more pieces than you have parties to attend.)
The 28 Best Holiday Party Outfit Ideas for Every Type of Festive Occasion…Including Nights on the Couch
happy sequin season
Published Nov 15, 2023
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Paula Boudes
The Best Holiday Party Outfits at a Glance
1
Best Jumpsuit
Lulus Tell Me More Sequin Jumpsuit
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2
Most Comfortable
Hill House Home Ellie Nap Dress
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3
Best Embellishment Detail
AL.C. Monica Top
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4
Best Patterned Knit
Boden Edie Fair Isle Sweater
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5
Best Faux-Leather Pants
Abercrombie & Fitch Faux-Leather High-Rise Loose Pant
read more
Best Jumpsuit
1. Lulus Tell Me More Sequin Jumpsuit
What We Like
- under $100
- reportedly runs true to size
- bra-friendly
What We Don’t Like
- may be too long for petite frames
Lulus
Really lean into the ‘70s vibes of this silver jumpsuit with some platform heels and a Farrah Fawcett blowout. It’s actually a pull-on design, with no zippers, so the fabric has more stretch than you might expect. As for the length, there are plenty of reviewers in the 5’7 to 5’10 range who say the length worked really well for them, but those on the petite end may find the legs require some hemming.
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: XS to XL
Most Comfortable
2. Hill House Home Ellie Nap Dress
What We Like
- multiple color options
- comfortable smocked waist
- has pockets
What We Don’t Like
- frequently sells out
Hill House Home
Who doesn’t love a classic plaid moment for the holidays? This best-selling dress has been deemed “lazy perfection” by our PureWow tester could not agree more. “It’s not super susceptible to wrinkles, it’s super stretchy and it has more of a dropped waist silhouette,” writes associate editor Marissa Wu. “Overall, it’s a beautiful, versatile, comfortable addition to your closet.”
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: XXXS to XXL
Best Embellishment Detail
What We Like
- versatile design
- 100 percent cotton
What We Don’t Like
- hand wash or dry clean recommended
A.L.C.
For those who prefer something a bit less obviously “holiday,” this classic button-up is adorned with dainty crystal clusters that make this blouse feel special, but not so special that you can only whip it out on certain occasions. In fact, we’d say this top is great to pair with jeans and some strappy ballet flats just about any day of the week. And if you do want to zhuzh it up, try tucking it into some sequin or velvet pants or a silk slip skirt.
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: US 00 to 14
Best Patterned Knit
4. Boden Edie Fair Isle Sweater
What We Like
- machine washable
- reportedly runs true to size
- multiple color options
What We Don’t Like
- slightly cropped fit may be too short for some
Boden
A great comfy, cozy option, this classic Fair Isle knit has us dreaming of a Nordic vacation and a nice warm mug of mulled wine. According to reviews, the cotton/wool/cashmere blend is incredibly soft and the fit is spot on (although if you prefer an oversize fit you may want to go up a size). Layer your knit over jeans and a high-collar blouse for a low-key get-together with friends, but be sure to add at least one touch of sparkle by way of some diamond stud earrings or a pendant necklace.
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: XS to XL
Best Faux-Leather Pants
5. Abercrombie & Fitch Faux-Leather High-Rise Loose Pant
What We Like
- multiple inseam lengths offered
- reportedly run true to size
- machine washable
What We Don’t Like
- not dryer safe
- currently available only in black
Abercrombie & Fitch
Leather pants are no longer just for bikers and rock and roll stars. You can always tone down the rough-and-tumble vibes by wearing them with a cozy knit or preppy plaid top. These also come in short and long lengths to better fit folks of any height. Reviews suggest these pants run true to size, but faux-leather does have a tendency to stretch a bit, so if you’re between sizes you may want to go with the smaller.
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: US 24 to 34, also Short and Long
Best Party-Ready PJs
6. Sleeper Party Pajamas with Double Feathers
What We Like
- lots of color options
- feather trim is removable
- machine washable (accept for feather trim)
What We Don’t Like
- high price point
Sleeper
These fun feather-trimmed PJs really live up to their “party” name and will get you in the holiday spirit whether you’re hopping on a Zoom call with friends, hosting a low-key cookie exchange or even headed out to a roaring New Year’s fête. P.S. The feather trim is removable should you find it bothers you once it’s time to actually hop into bed. (P.S. There are tons of colors to choose from, and multiple prints as well.)
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: XS to XXXL
Most Versatile Top
7. Tuckernuck Blackwatch Plaid Faye Blouse
What We Like
- multiple color options
- bra-friendly
- flattering silhouette
What We Don’t Like
- dry clean only
Tuckernuck
For a more casual event, try this classic tartan top which features an oversize bow at the back of the neck. The slightly flared bodice is wonderfully comfortable and won’t put any post-Champagne bloat on full display. According to reviews, this top runs true to size and many even mention owning it in multiple colors. “Great weight to the material for winter wear,” writes one reviewer. “It’s super soft and the lining is silky without bunching. It lays very nicely, and the bow at the back ties beautifully as well.”
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: XS to XXXL
Best Sequin Dress
8. Eloquii Sequin Dress with Bows
What We Like
- fully lined
- can be worn with a strapless bra
- adjustable straps
What We Don’t Like
- dry clean only
Eloquii
Sequins are never a bad idea for the holidays, and this pale pink midi has big main character energy. The bow straps are fully adjustable so you can tie them exactly as you like, and the back and neckline are cut high enough to cover a strapless bra. It is designed for a relaxed fit, meaning those between sizes may prefer the smaller.
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: US 14 to 28
Most Versatile Dress
What We Like
- lightweight material
- versatile design
- sustainably made
What We Don’t Like
- straps are not adjustable
Reformation
The burgundy color is what first brought holiday parties to mind when spying this dress, but truth is this beauty can be worn multiple seasons out of the year an in fact would make for a fabulous wedding guest dress. The low-cut back makes it difficult to wear with a traditional bra, but the material is fully opaque for those who feel comfortable going braless, and is also thick enough to not show the outline of pasties or a sticky bra. And we really can’t get enough of those sexy sheer lace panels to help break up the silhouette.
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: XS to XL
Best Feather Detail
10. Tuckernuck Feather Jamie Dress
What We Like
- lots of color options
- comfortable silhouette
What We Don’t Like
- reportedly runs large
Tuckernuck
This fun feather-adorned dress is as comfortable as a your favorite nightgown and offers a festive alternative to sequins and other sparkly embellishments. According to reviews, this dress runs a little large, but is reportedly incredibly comfortable. The material is also fully opaque, while two side slits ensure you can still spin and move on the dance floor without feeling restricted. It also comes in a few other super-bright colors (like hot pink and citron yellow), for those who prefer to really stand out from the crowd.
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: XXS to XXXL
Best Suit
11. J.Crew Collection Tuxedo Blazer and Wide-Leg Pants
What We Like
- can be mixed with other wardrobe staples
- also available in black and red
What We Don’t Like
- blazer reportedly runs large
J.Crew
Not much of a dress gal? This white tuxedo feels super fresh and modern while simultaneously avoiding any Saturday Night Fever associations. Plus, you can easily mix and match the blazer and pants with other items in your wardrobe to maximize use. According to reviews the pants run true to size, but the blazer appears to run a little large. (P.S. Not feeling the white? This set also comes in classic black and a bold cherry red.)
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: US 000 to 24
Most Fun Top
12. Eloquii Puff Sleeve Tulle and Velvet Top
What We Like
- can be worn with a strapless bra
- affordable price point
- fully lined
What We Don’t Like
- hand wash only
Eloquii
Why limit yourself to only velvet or tulle when you can rock both? This adorable top has a one-shoulder silhouette that feels effortless chic, and the black hue helps tone down the voluminous tulle sleeves. The material does have some stretch, so take that into consideration when choosing which size to order. Pair this top with jeans for your annual cookie exchange or with a flowy midi skirt for holiday cocktails with friends.
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: US 14 to 32
Best Strapless Dress
What We Like
- multiple color options
- can be worn with a strapless bra
- has pockets
What We Don’t Like
- reportedly runs small
Hutch
Put the presents under the tree to shame with this bow adorned midi that looks even more gorgeous in person. It comes in multiple colors (including classic black), all of which are available in petite lengths, and it even has pockets. According to reviews, this dress does run a little small, as it it fitted in the bust and waist, so we suggest using those measurements to gauge your best size from the size chart.
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: US 00 to 26, also Petite
Best Matching Set
14. Cider Glitter Velvet Top and Midi Skirt
What We Like
- affordable price point
- can be mixed with other wardrobe staples
- machine washable and dryer safe
What We Don’t Like
- unlined
- top reportedly runs small
Cider
There are so many ways to mix and match these separates with other wardrobe staples to outfit all the holiday fêtes on your calendar. The seaming along the bust is giving subtle Bridgerton vibes that feel trendy but not too overt, and the dusting of sparkle on the velvet is just enough to make the whole thing feel far more expensive than its under-$25 price tag.
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: US 12/14 to 26
Best Cutout Dress
15. Farm Rio Blue Martina Fringe Maxi Dress
What We Like
- bra-friendly
- sustainably made
- machine washable
What We Don’t Like
- hand wash recommended
- not dryer safe
Farm Rio
For the gal who prefers her holiday dresses be a bit unexpected, this gorgeous blue maxi is a fabulous option. The cutouts at the waist are positioned so you can still wear a regular bra underneath, and we are kind of obsessed with the black, beaded fringe that helps accentuate your waist and add a bit of glam to an otherwise boho silhouette. It’s also made from organic cotton for an eco-friendly twist. Although Farm Rio notes this dress is machine washable, you should definitely avoid the dryer to prevent shrinking and we’d highly recommend either using a mesh lingerie bag or, even better, spot cleaning to ensure minimal damage to that delicate beading.
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: XXS to XL
Most Comfortable
16. Spanx Faux-Leather Leggings
What We Like
- versatile style
- multiple inseam lengths available
- under $100
What We Don’t Like
- reportedly runs small
Spanx
These faux-leather leggings are some of the best we’ve ever worn and are both super chic and incredibly comfortable. They’re so easy to dress up or down for any type of holiday party and are as comfy as your regular matte leggings but feel so much more luxe. They also come in both petite and tall lengths (hallelujah!) for a better fit for all. That said, they do run small so we highly suggest you go up at least one size when ordering.
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: XS to 3X, also Petite and Tall
Best Subtle Metallic
What We Like
- fully lined
- flattering ruched skirt
- bra-friendly
What We Don’t Like
- fixed side drape is not adjustable
Tanya Taylor
You don’t have to choose between only gold or silver if you want to rock a metallic. Case in point, this brown-and-blue floral mini with a heavy dose of shine to make it feel all the more festive. We love that the neckline is also bra-friendly, and the ruched draping on the hip is incredibly flattering. The fabric is also wonderfully lightweight and the whole thing is fully lined to ensure nothing shows through.
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: US 00 to 22
Best Balletcore Moment
18. Everlane Alpaca Wrap Sweater
What We Like
- adjustable fit
- reportedly runs true to size
- sustainably made
What We Don’t Like
- dry clean only
Everlane
If you want to go literal with your balletcore inspiration, pair this gorgeous wrap with a tulle midi skirt and some sleek flats. Or, if you prefer something a bit more subtle, try some light-wash blue jeans or silver faux-leather pants with loafers or boots. Either way, you’re sure to feel cozy warm in the alpaca wool fabric. The wrap waist is also entirely adjustable, so you can wear it loose over a cami or knot it tight to wear as a top in its own right.
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: XXS to XL
Best Dress with Pockets
19. Anthropologie Somerset Velvet Maxi Dress
What We Like
- lightweight
- petite lengths available
- reportedly runs true to size
What We Don’t Like
- dry clean only
Anthropologie
Anthropologie’s Somerset maxi dress is a consistent best seller and comes in a wide range of colors, patterns and fabrics. But we’re particularly enamored with this new variation for one major reason: the stunning purple burnt velvet material. It’s soft, lightweight and festive yet won’t look out of place outside a holiday party setting. Plus, it has pockets (score!) and a comfy smocked waist that cinches you in without ever pinching.
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: XXS to 3X, also Petite
Best LBD
20. Reformation Brisbane Velvet Dress
What We Like
- bra-friendly
- timeless silhouette
- free basic alterations
What We Don’t Like
- dry clean only
Reformation
The ‘90s revival is in full swing, and few pieces feel more of the era than a velvet minidress. This chic (and sustainably made) mini comes in three gorgeous hues, including a light gray and a deep burgundy, all of which feature a super-chic, flattering V-cut in back that’s still plenty high enough to cover a regular T-shirt bra. The brand notes that there is very little stretch to the material, so if you’re between sizes you may want to opt for the larger. However, did you know that Reformation also offers free basic alterations in partnership with Hemster? So if you want the waist nipped in a bit or the hem taken up, you don’t have to worry about scheduling a trip to the tailor.
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: US 0 to 12
Best Dress Pants
21. Ramy Brook Joss Wide-Leg Pants
What We Like
- lots of color options
- inclusive size range
- reportedly run true to size
What We Don’t Like
- dry clean or hand wash only
Ramy Brook
These silk wide-leg pants come in a wide range of colors, but for the holidays we can’t help but gravitate toward Barbie-approved pink to really pop among the sea of LBDs. The silk stripes on the waistband are a cute nod to a traditional tuxedo, and also help to create the look of a cinched-in waist without a belt.
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: US 00 to 24
Best Polka Dot
What We Like
- bra-friendly
- subtly sexy silhouette
What We Don’t Like
- dry clean only
- reportedly runs small
Rhode
The hourglass cut on this cheery polka dot number is subtly sexy, despite the modest neckline and midi length. Plus, who doesn’t love a party dress you can wear with a regular T-shirt bra? The gold dots are actually velvet on sheer tulle, layered over an opaque black lining. A note on sizing, however: Rhode tends to run small, so you may find going up one size to be more comfortable.
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: US 0 to 14
Best Velvet Dress
23. City Chic Isabela Cowl-Neck Dress
What We Like
- adjustable straps
- can be worn with a strapless bra
- machine washable
What We Don’t Like
- not dryer safe
City Chic
This dark blue velvet slip dress is giving us major ‘90s vibes in all the best ways. The material is wonderfully soft and has quite a bit of stretch for extra comfort. The brand does note that although this dress runs true to size, it is designed for a curve-hugging fit, so if you prefer something a bit more relaxed you may want to go up one from your usual. The straps also also adjustable to ensure the neckline hits exactly where you want it to, and the back is high enough to cover a strapless bra.
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: US 14 to 24
Best Bodysuit
24. Free People Tongue Tied Thong Bodysuit
What We Like
- machine washable
- snap gusset
- adjustable ties at the shoulders
What We Don’t Like
- not bra-friendly
Free People
This festive twist on a classic black bodysuit is just too gorgeous to pass on, whether you plan to wear it with some casual high-waist jeans or a sequin midi skirt. There is a snap closure on the gusset to make it infinitely easier to use the restroom than other bodysuits, and the rear has a thong cut to minimize any visible panty lines. The bows on the shoulders are also fully adjustable so you can have some fun playing around with tying them in all sorts of creative ways.
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: XS to XL
Best Sequin Pants
25. Maeve Avery Pleated Sequin Trousers
What We Like
- multiple inseam lengths available
- material has some stretch
- roomy pockets
What We Don’t Like
- hand wash
- reportedly runs large
Maeve
We’ve seen more than out fair share or silver sequin joggers, but ice blue wide-leg pants are a fun take on holiday dressing that feels fresh and new. Plus, they’re just as easy to style as their silver predecessors with a chunky sweater, a denim button-up shirt or a mismatched sequin top (among other options). Reviewers say these pants are surprisingly comfortable, although a few found they ran a little big. They are also available in both petite and tall lengths so you won’t have to worry about scheduling a trip to the tailor before your big event.
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: US 00 to 26, also Petite and Tall
Best Casual Dress
26. Madewell Wide V-Neck Midi Dress
What We Like
- machine washable
- inclusive size range
- bra-friendly
What We Don’t Like
- reportedly runs small
Madewell
This moody floral midi is great for more casual get togethers, like Friendsgiving or a hot cocoa date, but can also be worn long after the holiday season comes to a close. It has a hidden zip closure in back and offers enough coverage up top to wear with a regular T-shirt bra (score!). Dress it up with some Monica Geller-inspired heeled boots or down with a pair of comfy loafers and scrunched socks.
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: US 00 to 28, also Petite
Best Ugly Holiday Sweater
27. Tipsy Elves Gaudy Garland Christmas Sweater
What We Like
- inclusive size range
- reportedly fits true to size
What We Don’t Like
- spot clean only
Tipsy Elves
For those who want their knit to feel particularly “in the spirit of things,” there are tons of hilarious and, OK, ugly holiday sweaters to choose from, whether you decide to go the over-the-top route or stick with something that’s the sartorial version of a little wink. But we love this green tinsel-adorned pullover specifically because it feels fun and festive without getting too cheesy. According to reviewers, the sweater runs true to size, but if you prefer a most fitted silhouette you may want to go down one from your usual.
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: XS to 5XL
Best Subtle Holiday Accessory
28. Baublebar Let There Be Light Earring Set
What We Like
- under $50
- subtle holiday nod
- comes with two studs and one ear cuff
What We Don’t Like
- only one color option
Baublebar
Because sometimes all you need to feel party ready is a pair of seasonal earrings. Be sure to wear these colorful studs and the matching ear cuff with an updo to really give them their time in the spotlight.
FAST FACTS
- Material: gold plated brass, titanium posts
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PureWow's editors and writers have spent more than a decade shopping online, digging through sales and putting our home goods, beauty finds, wellness picks and more through the wringer—all to help you determine which are actually worth your hard-earned cash. From our PureWow100 series (where we rank items on a 100-point scale) to our painstakingly curated lists of fashion, beauty, cooking, home and family picks, you can trust that our recommendations have been thoroughly vetted for function, aesthetics and innovation. Whether you're looking for travel-size hair dryers you can take on-the-go or women’s walking shoes that won’t hurt your feet, we’ve got you covered.
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