The holiday season is upon us, and with it comes a whirlwind of festive gatherings—office parties, family dinners, glamorous galas, and cozy cocktail evenings. Dressing for these occasions in 2023 means striking a balance between timeless elegance and the season’s boldest trends. Drawing inspiration from the fall/winter 2023 runways, celebrity red carpets, and insights from fashion experts, this guide highlights eight key looks to ensure you shine at every holiday party. From sequined glamour to tailored sophistication, we’ve got you covered with versatile, stylish outfits that cater to various dress codes and budgets. Let’s explore what to wear to make this holiday season your most fashionable yet.
1 entitled Sequined Glamour: Sparkle Without Overdoing It
Nothing says holiday party like sequins, and in 2023, they’re more versatile than ever. Designers like Michael Kors and Gucci showcased sequined dresses, tops, and even trousers, embracing a festive sparkle that transitions from bold to understated. This trend is perfect for evening events where you want to stand out without feeling like a disco ball.
Why It Works
Sequins capture the celebratory spirit of the holidays, reflecting light and adding instant glamour. Their evolution this season includes matte finishes and mixed textures, making them suitable for both formal galas and semi-casual gatherings. Pairing sequins with neutral or tailored pieces keeps the look polished.
How to Wear It
- Gala: A floor-length sequined gown in emerald or silver, paired with minimalist heels and a sleek clutch for timeless elegance.
- Cocktail Party: A sequined midi skirt with a silk blouse and pointed-toe pumps for a chic, balanced look.
- Casual Gathering: A sequined top tucked into high-waisted black trousers with loafers for effortless sparkle.
Where to Shop
- Nordstrom: Sequined dresses and tops from Badgley Mischka.
- Revolve: Trendy sequined skirts and jackets.
- H&M: Budget-friendly sequined blouses and accessories.
2 entitled Velvet Vibes: Luxe Comfort for Every Occasion
Velvet is a holiday staple, and in 2023, it’s back with a modern twist. From Erdem’s rich jewel-toned dresses to Tom Ford’s tailored velvet suits, this sumptuous fabric exudes luxury while remaining comfortable. It’s ideal for those chilly December nights when you want to look elegant without sacrificing warmth.
Why It Works
Velvet’s plush texture adds depth to any outfit, making it a natural choice for festive occasions. Its versatility allows it to be dressed up or down, fitting everything from office parties to intimate dinners. Plus, its rich hues—think burgundy, sapphire, and forest green—complement the holiday palette.
How to Wear It
- Office Party: A velvet blazer over a white silk shirt and tailored trousers for a professional yet festive look.
- Dinner Party: A velvet slip dress with strappy heels and statement earrings for understated glamour.
- Casual Drinks: Velvet wide-leg pants with a cashmere sweater and ankle boots for cozy sophistication.
Where to Shop
- Net-a-Porter: Velvet dresses and suits from Gucci and Erdem.
- Anthropologie: Velvet jumpsuits and tops.
- Zara: Affordable velvet skirts and blazers.
3 entitled Metallics: Shine Bright in Silver and Gold
Metallics, particularly silver and gold, are dominating holiday fashion in 2023. Seen on runways from Balmain to Versace, these finishes appear on everything from dresses to accessories, offering a futuristic yet festive vibe. Unlike sequins, metallics lean toward sleek, polished glamour.
Why It Works
Metallics are inherently eye-catching, making them perfect for standing out at crowded holiday events. Their neutral undertones pair easily with other colors, and their daytime-to-night versatility ensures you get maximum wear. Silver, in particular, feels fresh and modern, as noted by Vogue.
How to Wear It
- Formal Event: A gold metallic gown with delicate jewelry and nude heels for red-carpet-worthy elegance.
- Cocktail Party: A silver metallic mini dress with black tights and ankle boots for a trendy, youthful look.
- Day-to-Night: A metallic blouse tucked into leather pants with loafers for a versatile office-to-party outfit.
Where to Shop
- Saks Fifth Avenue: Metallic dresses from Versace and Balmain.
- ASOS: Budget-friendly metallic tops and skirts.
- Farfetch: Metallic accessories like clutches and heels.
4 entitled Statement Outerwear: Make an Entrance
Holiday parties often involve braving the cold, making statement outerwear a must. In 2023, coats are stealing the show with dramatic silhouettes, bold colors, and luxurious textures. Think faux-fur-trimmed capes at Chanel or vibrant red wool coats at Max Mara.
Why It Works
A standout coat elevates your entire look, ensuring you make an impression before you even step inside. It’s also practical, keeping you warm while transitioning between venues. The trend’s focus on bold hues and textures aligns perfectly with the festive mood.
How to Wear It
- Gala: A floor-length faux-fur coat over a sleek black dress for old-Hollywood glamour.
- Cocktail Party: A cherry-red wool coat over a neutral outfit to let the outerwear shine.
- Casual Gathering: A shearling-lined jacket with jeans and a festive sweater for cozy chic.
Where to Shop
- Nordstrom: Faux-fur and wool coats from Max Mara and Apparis.
- Mango: Affordable statement coats in bold colors.
- Reformation: Sustainable outerwear with modern silhouettes.
5 entitled Jewel Tones: Embrace Rich, Festive Hues
Jewel tones—emerald, ruby, sapphire, and amethyst—are synonymous with holiday elegance, and in 2023, they’re everywhere. Designers like Carolina Herrera and Oscar de la Renta showcased these rich hues in flowing gowns, tailored suits, and even accessories, making them a go-to for festive dressing.
Why It Works
Jewel tones flatter every skin tone and exude sophistication, making them ideal for holiday parties of all kinds. Their depth and vibrancy capture the season’s celebratory spirit, and they pair beautifully with metallics or neutrals for a balanced look.
How to Wear It
- Formal Event: An emerald satin gown with gold accessories for regal elegance.
- Office Party: A ruby blazer over a black dress with pumps for a polished yet festive vibe.
- Casual Drinks: An amethyst sweater tucked into leather pants with statement earrings for effortless style.
Where to Shop
- Net-a-Porter: Jewel-toned dresses from Carolina Herrera.
- Revolve: Jewel-tone tops and skirts.
- Zara: Budget-friendly jewel-tone blazers and dresses.
6 entitled Tailored Suits: Power Dressing with a Festive Twist
Tailored suits are no longer just for the boardroom—they’re a holiday party staple in 2023. From Saint Laurent’s sleek black tuxedos to Stella McCartney’s bold-colored sets, suits offer a modern, confident alternative to dresses. Add festive touches like satin lapels or metallic accents to keep the look celebratory.
Why It Works
Suits combine sophistication with versatility, allowing you to tailor the vibe to any event. They’re empowering and chic, offering a fresh take on holiday dressing for those who prefer structured silhouettes. Plus, they’re easy to rewear beyond the season.
How to Wear It
- Gala: A black tuxedo suit with satin lapels, paired with a sequined camisole and heels for drama.
- Office Party: A burgundy suit with a silk blouse and loafers for a professional yet festive look.
- Cocktail Party: A tailored suit in metallics or jewel tones with statement jewelry for a bold statement.
Where to Shop
- Farfetch: Designer suits from Saint Laurent and Stella McCartney.
- Banana Republic: Classic tailored suits in festive hues.
- ASOS: Budget-friendly suits with modern cuts.
7 entitled Statement Accessories: Elevate with Bold Details
Accessories are the unsung heroes of holiday dressing, and in 2023, they’re bigger and bolder than ever. Think oversized bows at Sandy Liang, chandelier earrings at Schiaparelli, and embellished clutches at Bottega Veneta. These pieces transform even the simplest outfits into party-ready looks.
Why It Works
Statement accessories allow you to embrace the festive spirit without overhauling your wardrobe. They’re also versatile, letting you rewear basics while changing the vibe with a single piece. Their ability to add personality makes them essential for holiday parties.
How to Wear It
- Formal Event: Chandelier earrings with a sleek updo and a simple black gown for maximum impact.
- Cocktail Party: An oversized bow headband with a velvet dress for a playful, feminine touch.
- Casual Gathering: An embellished clutch with a sweater dress and boots for subtle sparkle.
Where to Shop
- Net-a-Porter: Statement earrings and clutches from Schiaparelli.
- Anthropologie: Oversized bows and festive headbands.
- H&M: Affordable statement jewelry and bags.
8 entitled Slip Dresses: Effortless Elegance Reimagined
The slip dress, a ‘90s icon, remains a holiday favorite in 2023, with designers like Prada and Khaite offering fresh takes in satin, velvet, and sheer fabrics. Its minimalist silhouette is perfect for layering or wearing alone, making it a versatile choice for any party.
Why It Works
Slip dresses are effortlessly chic, offering a canvas for bold accessories or outerwear. Their lightweight fabrics feel comfortable for long evenings, and their ability to transition from casual to formal makes them a holiday wardrobe MVP. The trend’s resurgence on red carpets, worn by stars like Zendaya, cements its relevance.
How to Wear It
- Gala: A satin slip dress in champagne with strappy heels and a faux-fur stole for timeless glamour.
- Cocktail Party: A velvet slip dress layered with a sheer metallic top and ankle boots for a modern twist.
- Casual Drinks: A black slip dress with a chunky cardigan and statement necklace for cozy elegance.
Where to Shop
- Reformation: Sustainable slip dresses in festive fabrics.
- Nordstrom: Satin and velvet slip dresses from Khaite.
- Mango: Budget-friendly slip dresses in neutral tones.
Styling Tips for Holiday Parties
To nail your holiday party looks, keep these expert tips in mind:
- Balance Boldness: Pair statement pieces like sequins or metallics with neutral basics to avoid overwhelming your outfit.
- Layer Thoughtfully: Use outerwear or sheer layers to add dimension and warmth without sacrificing style.
- Mix Textures: Combine velvet with satin or sequins with wool for a rich, tactile look that feels festive.
- Prioritize Comfort: Choose breathable fabrics like silk or lightweight velvet for long events, and opt for shoes you can dance in.
- Personalize with Accessories: Statement jewelry, bold headbands, or embellished clutches add individuality to classic silhouettes.
- Adapt to the Dress Code: For office parties, lean toward tailored suits or jewel-tone blazers; for galas, embrace gowns or sequins.
Why These Looks Matter
Holiday party fashion in 2023 is about celebrating individuality while embracing the season’s joy. The trends—sequins, velvet, metallics, and more—reflect a cultural craving for glamour after years of subdued celebrations. As Harper’s Bazaar notes, this season’s looks are “unapologetically festive,” encouraging bold choices that make every event memorable.
These outfits are also designed for accessibility. High-end retailers like Net-a-Porter and Saks Fifth Avenue offer designer pieces, while budget-friendly brands like Zara and H&M make trends attainable for all. The focus on versatile pieces, like slip dresses and tailored suits, aligns with sustainable fashion principles, encouraging investment in items that can be reworn year-round.
Where to Start Shopping
Kick off your holiday shopping with these retailers:
- High-End: Net-a-Porter, Saks Fifth Avenue, and Farfetch for designer pieces like Gucci velvet dresses or Versace metallics.
- Mid-Range: Nordstrom, Reformation, and Anthropologie for quality staples like slip dresses and jewel-tone blazers.
- Budget-Friendly: Zara, H&M, and ASOS for affordable sequins, velvet, and statement accessories.
- Specialty: Banana Republic for tailored suits, Adidas for metallic sneakers as a casual accent.
For discounts, check promo codes at Nordstrom, Revolve, and Madewell, as recommended by Glamour.
Final Thoughts
Holiday parties are your chance to shine, and 2023’s fashion trends make it easier than ever to do so. Whether you’re drawn to the sparkle of sequins, the luxe comfort of velvet, or the sleek confidence of a tailored suit, there’s a look for every occasion and personality. As you plan your outfits, prioritize pieces that make you feel confident and festive, and don’t shy away from bold accessories or unexpected textures to elevate your style.
The holidays are about connection, celebration, and self-expression. Let your wardrobe tell your story, whether you’re sipping champagne at a gala or toasting with friends at a cozy gathering. With these eight looks, you’re ready to make every moment—and every outfit—unforgettable. Happy holidays, and happy styling!