Holiday parties are meant to be festive, social, and fun—but figuring out what to wear can be tricky. Whether it’s a work event, a friend’s gathering, or a family celebration, the right outfit should feel polished, seasonally appropriate, and aligned with the party’s vibe.
This guide explains what to wear to a holiday party, with outfit ideas for men and women, styling tips, and common mistakes to avoid.
Understand the Type of Holiday Party
Before choosing your outfit, consider the setting and tone of the event.
Common holiday party types include:
- Office or work holiday parties
- Casual house parties
- Dressy evening celebrations
- Family gatherings
- Cocktail-style events
The invitation, venue, and time of day usually offer clues about how dressed up you should be.
General Holiday Party Style Guidelines
No matter the setting, a few principles always apply.
Embrace festive details
Seasonal colors, textures, or subtle sparkle help your outfit feel holiday-ready.
Balance style and comfort
You’ll likely be standing, mingling, and moving around, so comfort matters.
Dress slightly more elevated than everyday wear
Holiday parties are a chance to look a bit more polished than usual.
Pay attention to fabrics
Velvet, satin, knitwear, wool blends, and metallic accents feel especially seasonal.
What Women Should Wear to a Holiday Party
Women’s holiday party outfits can range from cozy-chic to dressy and elegant.
Dresses for Women
Dresses are a popular holiday party choice.
Great options include:
- Midi dresses
- Wrap dresses
- Sweater dresses
- Velvet or satin dresses
Choose silhouettes that feel comfortable and flattering without being restrictive.
Separates for Women
Dressy separates work well for more casual or flexible events:
- Blouses paired with tailored trousers
- Statement tops with midi skirts
- Knit tops layered with blazers or jackets
Festive colors or textures can elevate simple pieces.
Shoes and Accessories for Women
Finish the look with:
- Heels or dressy flats
- Ankle boots
- Clutch bags or small handbags
- Minimal statement jewelry
Avoid shoes that are uncomfortable for extended wear.
What Men Should Wear to a Holiday Party
Men’s holiday party attire should feel polished but seasonally relaxed.
Tops and Layers for Men
Strong choices include:
- Button-down shirts
- Knit sweaters
- Turtlenecks
- Blazers or sport coats
Layering adds warmth and visual interest.
Bottoms for Men
Appropriate bottoms include:
- Dress trousers
- Chinos
- Dark, clean jeans (for casual events)
Stick to well-fitted silhouettes and seasonal colors.
Shoes and Accessories for Men
Footwear and details matter:
- Dress shoes
- Loafers
- Chelsea boots
- Clean leather sneakers (for casual parties)
Accessories should remain simple and coordinated.
What to Wear Based on Holiday Party Setting
Office Holiday Party
- Conservative silhouettes
- Neutral or jewel tones
- Minimal sparkle
- Polished shoes and accessories
Casual House Party
- Dressy casual outfits
- Comfortable layers
- Festive colors or textures
Evening or Cocktail-Style Holiday Party
- Dressier fabrics like velvet or satin
- Structured silhouettes
- Elevated footwear
Holiday Party Colors to Try
Seasonal colors help your outfit feel festive without being over-the-top.
Popular holiday shades include:
- Deep red
- Emerald green
- Navy
- Black
- Gold or silver accents
- Cream and winter white
You don’t need to wear bright holiday prints—subtle color choices work just as well.
Common Holiday Party Outfit Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these common missteps:
- Dressing too casually
- Wearing uncomfortable shoes
- Overdoing sparkle or novelty items
- Ignoring the event’s dress code
- Choosing outfits that restrict movement
If you feel confident and comfortable, your outfit is likely right.
Final Thoughts
Knowing what to wear to a holiday party is about balance. Choose festive details, polished silhouettes, and comfortable pieces that suit the event’s tone.
Whether the party is casual or dressy, a thoughtful outfit helps you relax, enjoy the celebration, and look great doing it.