Chloe Gallacher
And just like that, it's holiday party season—the festive grand finale of the year. And whether you're going to one party or 10, you may want to shop for some new fancier-than-usual things (that you can still wear post-party season, of course) and find some fancier-than-usual outfit ideas to wear with them. Luckily for us, the fashion girls of Instagram have been documenting their elegant holiday party outfits, and, boy, have I got some gems to show you.
Because not all holiday parties are created equal, some of the outfits I chose for this roundup are ultra fancy, while others are more casual. But the commonality among all of them is that they're festive and they're elegant. Elegance has been the through line of many trends (and outfit trends) this year, and that theme is likely to continue through party season. So let's do some outfit planning, shall we?
Scroll on for 7 excellent, elegant holiday party outfits to try last-minute and shop for pieces you may be missing.
7 Elegant Party Outfit Ideas to Wear This Holiday Season
1. Waistcoat + Baggy Jeans + Ballet Flats + Sparkly Earrings
Style Notes: We're always on the hunt for the perfect top to nail that 'jeans and a nice top' look and a waistcoat is a strong contender. Opting for a halterneck style and take inspo from Lucy and adding a brooch makes it feel less office attire and more champagne ready.
Shop the Look:
This feels so luxe.
These jeans went to the top of my wishlist.
A simple black ballet flat is such a core piece in any wardrobe.
Such an affordable option.
2. Silver Sequin Dress + Silver Bag + Silver Shoes
Style Notes: If you can't dress like a disco ball to a New Year's Eve party, when can you?! There's no such thing as overdressed in the party season, so go all out with head-to-toe silver.
Shop the Look:
I love everything about this.
Such a classic style.
Cult Gaia are known for their iconic bags.
Finish off any party look with a sparkly hoop earring.
3. Black Minidress + Sheer Tights + Platform Heels
Style Notes: You can't go wrong with an LBD and heels. When it comes to party season, opt for one that has embellishments such as sequins or pearls or is made from a fabric such as velvet.
Shop the Look:
I adore the pearl trimmed neckline.
Tinsel doesn't have to be reserved for the tree.
M&S is my go-to for tights.
A handbag is a great way to bring colour into your look.
4. Black Gown + Black Accessories
Style Notes: For those more formal, black-tie events, a strapless gown is a failsafe option. While attire doesn't have to be black, it's a failsafe elegant, classy option. Keep accessories minimal and allow your dress to be the main focus.
Shop the Look:
The bow detail is such a sleek finish.
A classic style you're guaranteed to get so much wear out of.
A designer dupe at a fraction of the cost.
Keep accessories minimal and opt for a simple gold earring.
5. Black Knit + Silver Trousers + Sandals
Style Notes: For something a bit more on the casual side, silver jeans are a great option. Simply pair with a black knit and shoes and allow focus to be on the jeans.
Shop the Look:
This comes in 16 other colours and prints.
These went straight in my basket.
There's something so chic about a strappy sandal.
Silver jewellery gives a cohesive finish to your overall look.
6. Statement Gold Skirt + Fine Gold Knit Top
Style Notes: In my opinion, dressing for the holiday season means making a statement. So why not express that with a statement gold skirt and a matching fine knit?
Shop the Look:
This can easily be dressed up or down.
This ticks the box with statement.
The subtle shimmer gives such a nice finish.
Just to really finish off the OTT look.
7. Wrap Blazer + Sequin Skirt + Ballet Flats
Style Notes: Pairing a wrap blazer with a sequin skirt allows you to use pieces you already have in your own wardrobe. Sequins can be quite intimidating to wear, so this makes it feel more wearable.
Shop the Look:
A wrap blazer feels more elevated for party season.
Silver sequins scream festive season.
Flat shoes = no sore feet = more dancing.
