What to Wear to the Holiday Party: 2025’s Style Glow-Up

Holiday parties are basically fashion’s version of the Hunger Games. You’re trying to sparkle—but not like a disco ball. Festive—but not like you got tackled by a tinsel garland. And somehow, every year, the group chat swears it’s “just casual,” which we all know is not the case.

This year’s holiday style hits that sweet spot between chill and chic. The clothes are relaxed but still pulled together. Texture’s big, tailoring’s making a comeback and comfort finally got invited to the party. Basically, you can look amazing and still breathe.

Here’s how to show up this season—stylish, comfortable, and completely yourself—no matter what kind of holiday invite you’re walking into.

let Texture do the talking

When it comes to holiday dressing, texture is doing the heavy lifting. Velvet, satin, sequins, metallic knits, soft faux fur—it’s all fair game this year. The key is to mix and match textures without competing for attention.

If you’re heading to a dinner party, trade the expected sparkle for something more touchable - a velvet midi dress or a satin blouse with a fitted skirt. If it’s a bigger event, metallic details or sequined fabric can make a statement.

Texture adds dimension and makes your outfit feel intentional, even if you threw it on last minute. It’s the shortcut to looking “holiday” in a time crunch.

Stylist Tip: Sequins work best when they catch the light, not compete with it. Keep the shine soft and intentional.

A Little Red Never Hurt Anyone

Red has officially earned its spot as the color of the season. This year’s shades are deeper, moodier, and more wearable. Think cherry, wine, and burnt brick tones that look good under warm lighting.

For a dressy party, go all in with a red dress or a tailored two-piece in oxblood. For something more relaxed, a hint of red goes a long way: a patent heel, a statement earring, even a red lip. It brings life to any look and photographs beautifully.

Metallic Energy Only

Metallics are having a real moment this year, but not those stiff, foil-like fabrics. The new metallics are fluid—gold, silver, and bronze tones that drape, shimmer, and move with you.

A gold slip skirt with a simple top or a silver knit dress that hits the light just right can completely change your party mood. You don’t need a ton of accessories when the fabric itself already does the work.

Stylist Tip: Skip the stiff stuff. The best metallics feel fluid—soft shine that moves when you do.

Suits That Know How to Have Fun

This season’s tailoring is softer and more fluid, so you can dance, eat, and sit comfortably without the jacket judging you. Go velvet for luxe energy, or try a structured set in deep green or midnight navy for something more understated.

If the vibe is cocktail but not formal, split your set—wear the blazer with a metallic top and trousers, or the pants with a silk cami and statement earrings. You’ll look put-together either way.

Stylist Tip: Forget the classic button down shirt and layer something softer underneath—silk, satin, or skin. It’s the easiest way to make a suit party-ready.

A Moment for Sheer

The new sheer trend isn’t about showing off—it’s about movement, light, and ease. A sheer sleeve, a mesh neckline, or a gauzy overlay can instantly elevate your outfit without overdoing it.

For a formal holiday event, sheer fabrics layered over something structured add just the right touch of drama. For smaller gatherings, a soft mesh or organza detail is enough to make it feel special.

Stylist Tip: If you’re wearing sheer, keep everything else simple.

Outerwear That Deserves the Invite

The coat isn’t just for warmth—it’s part of the outfit.

I’m not talking about your average, basic outerwear, I mean faux fur, long leather trenches, bold plaids, rich wool textures. Whether you’re walking into a fancy dinner or a friend’s rooftop party, your coat should make as much of an impression as what’s underneath.

If you’re wearing something simple, go bold—a metallic trench, a statement color, or a dramatic faux fur. If your outfit’s already doing the talking, keep the coat clean and classic.

Accessories That Pull Their Weight

Accessories help to define your look.

Chunky cuffs, sculptural earrings, and bold rings are stealing the spotlight from dainty jewelry. Bags are smaller and more structured, and shoes are making their own statement with platforms, metallics, and sharp pointed toes.

The key is to pick one standout and let it lead. If your earrings are bold, keep the rest subtle. If your shoes sparkle, don’t fight them. Balance keeps the look intentional.

Stylist Tip: Choose one piece that leads the look and let everything else follow its cue.

Dress for the Mood

“Cocktail attire” is the most confusing phrase on the planet. So skip the labels and focus on the vibe.

If it’s a fancy work event, lean structured and clean—tailored pieces, polished fabrics, minimal fuss. If it’s a casual dinner or a house party, layer texture, color, and comfort. If it’s a mix of both (which, let’s be real, most are), go for something that looks styled but feels easy.

You’ll never regret wearing something that makes you comfortable, confident and completely yourself.

The Black Dress, Rewritten

The little black dress never went anywhere—it just got updated.

For holiday season, it’s all about detail: cutouts, shine, asymmetry, and subtle drama. A feather trim, a metallic finish, or a bold sleeve can make a classic black dress feel current.

And if you’ve already got one you love, don’t overthink it. Change the energy with your accessories—swap your earrings, change the shoe, add a great bag. You can reinvent the same dress a hundred ways.

Stylist Tip: A black dress is a blank canvas. The vibe depends on what you pair it with.

Comfort Is the New Confidence

Stretch satins, wide-leg pants, soft knits—you can have polish and comfort. If you can sit, dance, eat, and breathe in your outfit, it’s already a win.

The new definition of festive is feeling at ease while still looking incredible. You don’t have to suffer to shine.

Stylist Tip: If you’re adjusting your outfit more than you’re enjoying yourself, it’s not the right one.

You don’t need a brand-new wardrobe or a complicated dress code to look amazing at a holiday party. You just need pieces that feel good to you.

Wear something that moves, that glows, that makes you want to take the long way across the room.

With all the style and love you deserve,

Monica