It’s been a minute since I’ve had to prepare serious looks, so this holiday season, I’m looking forward to coming properly to every single event, no matter how casual. It’s been almost three years since I’ve seen so many friends, and this year feels like a reintroduction to the world. The long time away from friends can feel like an obstacle to overcome, but I actually love that we can skip the small talk and get straight into the thick of it. I imagine many of my friends have changed, as have I, and I’m hoping the outfits reflect that.
Being the obsessive shopper that I am, I have plucked nine outfits from Instagram that are worth re-creating for all the parties you plan to attend this month. I'm talking plumage, bling, not-your-average sequins, and beyond, so keep scrolling to see the statement outfits that make winter look fun.
What a fresh way to style a button-down! It’s hard to make a feather-trimmed skirt look laid-back, but Mimi nailed it. Keep the jewelry and accessories to a minimum in order to let the star of the show do her thing.
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This is one of the few button-downs that can be equally dressed up or down.
A little bit Cruella, a little bit Cher.
Evidence that Hot Girl Summer is a mindset.
When it comes to dressing up, Raya is my queen. Her ensembles always expand my range and inspire me to step out of my comfort zone. This voluminous skirt is so timeless. Perhaps my favorite part of this look is the heavy metal accessorizing, which makes a classic outfit still feel very current. In case you haven’t heard, the maxi skirt is here to stay, so it’s worth getting ahead of the trend now.
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Engineered to hide bra straps.
This maxi can be styled so many ways.
Cinch all your blazers and sweaters this winter with this statement belt.
Chunky silver jewelry is all I feel like wearing lately.
I'm loving the barely-there cut-outs on this long Jonathan Simkhai dress. A hint is more than enough. Pair your cut-out dress with statement earrings and a mini tote to stay within the minimalist theme.
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The fabric catches the light as you walk.
Abstract art open for interpretation.
So cute!
Front-tie tops are some of the newer ’90s-inspired pieces on the market this year. Style them with tailored pants for even more attitude. Now, where’s my espresso martini?
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The one everyone is wearing.
White pants look so fresh in the winter.
A little bling never hurt anybody.
These make it look like you have more than one piercing.
A sparkly dress is practically synonymous with the holidays, so you might as well lean in. Disc sequins are a cool way to partake in the trend without looking played out. Match the accessories to the dress—we don’t want to distract everyone from the main event.
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This dress is begging for a slow-motion dancing moment.
Simple and to the point.
An ’80s revival is overdue.
This midi skirt is the older sister of the pleated-mini-skirt trend we saw blazing all spring and summer. The mid-calf boots are the perfect height for this length skirt and look super cool in a retro way.
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Cut-outs where it counts.
Dream skirt.
These boots are so chic.
The symmetry soothes me.
As we venture into the era of the Metaverse, a space-cowgirl outfit is probably most appropriate. Metallic separates are one of the more challenging outfits to get right but have a high payoff when done well. Stick as close to the same hue as possible, and use texture to add interest to the look. And of course, finish it off with some cowboy boots.
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Chain-metal tops don’t have a good track record in my book because they rarely fit, but this one looks like it has enough space to fit a lot of body types.
I want to go to the moon in these.
Fire.
Sheer skirts are one of my favorite trends this year. When it comes to styling them, reach for button-downs and simple tops as shown. This sheer lace skirt does a good job at obstructing some of the transparency, so don’t be shy.
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Layer this over pants.
Wear this top over the sheer skirt, and add a belt to create an A+ ’fit.
These always remind me of Carrie Bradshaw.
Wear this outfit to a friend’s house party, and bring all the cheer.
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Beautiful.
J’adore.
Wear them as sisters or as cousins.
Next up, if you too are meeting the family over the holidays, stick with these 7 outfits.
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