Last Updated on August 24, 2023 by Carla Jonas
Christmas planning is serious work. From tackling your Christmas shopping list to prepping your festive looks (while running low on Christmas outfit ideas) and giving your home a jolly makeover, the tasks keep piling up. But when it comes to Christmas fashion, we can help.
Next, we’re looking at 19 Christmas Outfit Recipes that simply can’t go wrong. Whether you’re hitting the slopes, lounging by the fire, busting your dance moves at the office party or attending a posh soiree, we’ve got you covered – in the best Christmas attire, that is.
Christmas Outfit Ideas – Frequently Asked Questions
Festive attire is the name of a dress code that is similar to cocktail attire. T-shirts and denims are a no-go as Christmas outfits, as are casual sweatshirts, boho styles rather suited for the beach and frumpy ensembles. Also called ‘holiday attire’, this dress code welcomes sequins, tartan, cashmere, velvet, satin, tweed, pearls, fine jewelry and other similar elements.
Opt for the classic Christmassy colors including red and green – but not paired together (in their saturated and bold tones). Go for a vibrant hue with a plaid like tartan or fair isle knits. Embrace metallics like gold, silver and copper / rust. For a less saturated, slightly moodier look, pick jewel tones in darker shades, like burgundy and dark emerald. Always count on neutrals like black and white.
Black is a great neutral for a holiday party, as well as part of a daytime ensemble. To infuse Christmas flair into your look, pair a little black dress with red pumps – or lips – for that extra red Christmassy punch. Black also pairs well with jewel tones like emerald and burgundy or metallics like gold or silver for a more festive look.
JEWELRY SPOTLIGHT
The common denominator for a fabulous Christmas look? You guessed, it’s the right kind of bling, aka PEARLS. Whether you’re keeping it casual in Christmas sweaters, dolling up for the office party or attending a big family reunion, or looking for Valentine’s Day outfits, pearls elevate the widest range of outfits. This holiday season, pair your favorite dress, your jumpsuit or even your comfy loungewear with a chic pair of pearl Christmas earrings, be it classy studs, dangle, drop or hoop styles for that instant glam boost.
Christmas Outfit Elements: Fabrics, Patterns and Colors
Not sure if you’re already the owner of a surprisingly cute Christmas outfit? One that’s perhaps sitting – crumpledly so – in the back of your closet? No worries, as we’re collaring just this: What makes a look – any look – Christmassy? From red velvet (no surprise there) to twinkling sequins, here’s a list of elements, hues, patterns and fabrics that are sure to scream ‘It’s Christmas!’:
Christmas Outfits – The Fabrics
Think comfortable, luxurious, plush. These next fabrics are just what you need when on the hunt or Christmas outfit ideas:
- Velvet – Luscious, sumptuous and ultra-cozy, it’s a given that velvet (especially in jewelry tone varieties) is as festive as it gets.
- Silk – It’s precious, it shines and it feels ultra-smooth against your skin – aka the perfect pick as Christmas loungewear or as a slinky party dress.
- Satin – As above, plus with extra lusciousness and velvety feels.
- Cashmere – It’s a given that warm and silky cashmere and cute Christmas outfits go hand in hand.
- Wool and other (chunky) knits – The chunkier, the better. Oversized, extra cozy, white or red – you can’t miss the mark in knits.
Christmas Outfits – The Finishes
In need of a Christmas party look? Or simply a dolled up Christmas eve look? A romantic date night look on Christmas eve? ‘All that sparkles’ should cover it. And since you’ll soon be planning your New Year’s Eve outfit as well, these shimmery finishes double perfectly as just that:
- Glittery fabrics
- Sequins
- Metallic fabrics
Christmas Prints and Patterns
Plaid is a given when it comes to Christmas Eve outfits, as is the red-black combo. But what kind of plaid (did you know there are dozens of types?)? Check these Christmassy patterns, perfect for casual festive occasions:
- Fair isle – A traditional knitting method, popularized in Shetland Islands (Scotland) by no other than royalty. The technique involves creating patterns using a palette of colors, but just two shades in a row.
- Tartan – A type of plaid, featuring horizontal and vertical lines that intersect at 90 degree angles, most famously red.
- Buffalo check – Another type of plaid, usually used in flannel or outdoor clothing featuring more solid squares (most famously red and black).
Christmas Outfit Colors
- Red & Co. Meaning, you can’t go wrong with any shade of red, as long as it’s vibrant, saturated and intense. From classic poppy and berry reds to burgundy, maroon and mahogany.
- Emerald Green. Another Christmas classic, emerald green is sophisticated, reminiscent of the hues of the pine trees and perfect for the festive occasion. Other lushy green shades are welcomed as well (reminiscent of Christmas foliage).
- Jewel Tones. Besides Rubies and Emeralds, you can’t go wrong with jewel tones like dark magenta, sapphire and plum-purple.
- Black and White. These neutrals are the classics when it comes to Christmas outfits: black and white, as crisp as it gets.
- Metallics: Silver, Gold, Copper. You can’t go wrong with a lamé silver skirt paired with an oversized white knit for that festively chic look. Similarly, gold sequins and copper-hued velvet are other favorites.
19 Elevated Christmas Outfit Ideas
Let’s get to the fun part: the virtual runway show, featuring the very best – and most festive – Christmas outfit ideas around. From cozy sweaters to cuddle in by the fire to the ultimate party dresses and from the minimalist’s dream Christmas outfits to the maximalist’s interpretation of festive-chic, we’ve literally got it all.
But there’s no room for kitschy Santa hats and ugly Christmas sweaters on this list – unless that’s your own definition of ‘cute Christmas outfits’. Regardless, looking like an elf is not an option. Because this holiday season, it’s all about elevated and carefully curated festive outfits. Classic pairings, edgy looks, power outfits and unexpected groovy alternatives – all infused with that charming holiday spirit. Next, 19 Christmas outfit ideas that you can shop or recreate with ease.
Christmas Party Outfits: Red-Hot Pizzazz & Plush Textures
What better way to start than with the classics. For a crisp, clean and red-hot Christmas Eve outfit, pair a form-hugging frock with a luxe long coat. Keep your palette on-theme: red, almost-whites, emerald green and a touch of metallics. Look for lush materials and opt for items that have that velvety touch – and that includes your accessories.
Where to Wear: As a Christmas party outfit, for Christmas dinner & at that much-anticipated family reunion.
SHOP THIS LOOK:
NORMA KAMALI Grace Paneled Pleated Stretch-Jersey Midi Dress (out of stock) / MAX MARA Ivory Winter Coat / 8.0-8.5mm Black Akoya Round Pearl Stud Earrings / Tanpell Women’s Evening Clutch Bags Silk Satin Party Handbag / Fayes Pointy Toe Heeled Slingbacks (out of stock)
Statement Plaid & Oversize Cashmere
Keeping warm and cozy is a priority? No need to put style in the backseat. All you need is a statement coat in an unapologetic Christmassy print (hello, plaids!), an oversized knit (in cashmere, no less) and a trusted pair of dark denims. Pair it all up with comfy boots and vibrantly red accessories, plus the mandatory touch of iridescence: black baroque pearls. A statement coat doesn’t need competition, so keep your other elements in neutral black and white for a crisp look.
Where to Wear: Outdoors, going caroling, strolling under Christmas lights, snow fighting.
SHOP THIS LOOK:
RED Valentino Checked Double-Breasted Short Coat / Cable Knit Sleeves Sweater / Isabel Marant Firna Logo-Embroidered Two-Tone Scarf /Thick Fair Isle Hat / Stuart Weitzman Kolbie Boots / 14K Gold Tahitian South Sea Drop Pearl Dangling Tincup Earrings / Tahitian South Sea Baroque Pearl Leather Bracelet / High-Rise Wide-Leg Cropped Jeans
Boho-Chic Layers & Golden Glow
If bohemian-chic is your vibe on the daily, then carry it on throughout the holiday season. A jewel toned slip dress in satin pairs well with an embroidered kimono for extra warmth. Add more layers by stacking up boho-chic types of bracelets and complete the look with a pair of effortless chunky heel mules.
Where to Wear: Anywhere you’d like, from day to night.
SHOP THIS LOOK:
Women’s Sleeveless Spaghetti Strap Satin Dress / Wendy Velvet Embroidered Kimono Black / Golden South Sea Baroque Pearl Dangling Tincup Earrings / 14K Gold Freshwater Pearl & Black Spinel Gwen Bracelet / Golden South Sea Round Pearl Tincup Bracelet /Allegra K Women’s Pointed Toe Chunky Heels Slides Mules
Eclectic Mixes: Maroon, Leather & Fair Isle
For a less obvious interpretation of Christmas Eve outfits, stick with this understated shade: maroon. Pair a fair isle sweater with darker shades of red and pink gemstones – still on theme, yet not as expected. Leather makes a great statement piece for the holidays – it’s warm, luxe and sleek, pairing exceptionally well with your fave knit of choice. Plus, graphic prints add chic visual interest.
Where to Wear: Visiting the fam, hosting your friends for Christmas eve, at an upscale mountain resort.
SHOP THIS LOOK:
Weekend Max Mara Maser Fair Isle Wool Sweater / Milinda Bootie FRANCO SARTO / The Perfect High Waist Straight Leg Faux Leather Pants MADEWELL / Pink Freshwater Pearl Long Drop Earrings / Marc Jacobs The Snapshot Leather Crossbody Bag
Christmas Party Outfits: Frugal and Fab Under $250
The holiday season is not kind to our wallets. If you’re all about being frugal and keeping a tight budget, no worries. Ultra-cute Christmas outfit ideas don’t need to leave you in debt. Our budget-friendly look actually looks expensive, includes fine jewelry and precious gemstones and keeps it all under $250. A flirty sequin party dress paired with Freshwater pearls, strappy nude heels and a swingy clutch have never looked better together.
Where to Wear: As a Christmas party outfit or on a Christmas Eve date.
SHOP THIS LOOK:
Silver Sequin Tee Shirt Dress (out of stock) / 7mm White Freshwater Round Pearl Stud Earrings / Pointed Toe Barely There Heels / Diamante Ring Handle Suedette Box Clutch Bag
PEARL SPOTLIGHT
Looking to glam up for that Christmas party without spending a fortune? Fine pearls don’t need to come with high price tags. For a budget-friendly alternative, opt for real cultured Freshwater pearls to pair up with all your festive outfits. Earrings, pendants, necklaces, bracelets and more – for any budget, any style, and any occasion.
Edgy Layers & Patterned Ruffles
We see you, you reluctantly festive dresser, who’d rather go all out on edgy picks than embrace a fluffy knit. No worries, there’s hope. Grab your fave leather jacket and juxtapose it with a ruffly frock. Add layers with dangling jewelry piece (like jacket earrings to maintain the edgy levels high) and an oversized scarf. A look that’s not your typical Christmas attire, yet still hitting the festive color scheme.
Where to Wear: At Christmas brunch, lunch or dinner – your pick.
SHOP THIS LOOK:
Caden Leather Biker Jacket / Oyennda Tall Boot, Wrap Tiered Midi Dress in Border Print / Tahitian South Sea Pearl & Diamond Krystal Earrings / Florence Check Blanket Scarf
Upgraded Coziness: Comfy, Chic and Christmassy
Your idea of a perfect Christmas means not getting out of your pajamas. We get it. No judgement here. For a super relaxed Christmas Eve – or day – spent at home, retire those old pajamas and go festive instead. A coordinated loungewear set in a non-cheesy Christmassy print will do the trick. Next, add a cozy cardigan in a fluffy white knit into the mix. Finish the look with a pair of fuzzy slippers that abide the color scheme. And since it’s Christmas day after all, wear a twinkle around your neck with a chic and minimal pearl pendant.
Where the Wear: In bed and out of bed, lounging around the Christmas tree all day long.
SHOP THIS LOOK:
Short Sleeve Pajama Set / Phoebe Wrap Cardigan / 14K Gold White Freshwater Cultured Pearl Devon Pendant / Merry + Bright Coffee Mug / Wicked Good Genuine Shearling Moccasin Slipper
Flirty Glitter: An Easy-Breezy Christmas Aesthetic
If flirty and fun is on your agenda, then this one’s for you. Grab a comfy – yet utterly sparkly – dress, a pair of embroidered flats (we’re all about elevating those staples) and an iridescent shoulder bag. The perfect match in iridescence: your Christmas tree! Joke aside: Tahitian pearls in peacock shades, under the shape of dangling earrings that move as you move. Whether it’s a Christmas party you’re headed to, a dinner or a date, the combo of glitter and Christmassy shades never fails.
Where to Wear: Out partying, vibing with friends, or for that Instagram photo-shoot.
SHOP THIS LOOK: Belted Sequin Mini Dress / Black Freshwater Pearl Becca Earrings / Anthropologie Pretty Ballerinas Tyra Flats / Anthropologie Mini Circle Crossbody Bag
Sustainable Christmas Fashion: Rented Statement Pieces
What’s a fashionista to do when aiming to look posh on Christmas day, without going full force on fast fashion? Do sustainable Christmas outfit ideas exist – or is it a lost cause? Well, good news: these days, slow fashion and chicness are best pals. Our solution: rent, not shop, for your statement Christmas outfits. Go all in on luxe designer pieces and rent them out instead of spending big. As for jewelry, forgo those kitschy Christmas earrings featuring candy canes and shop for classic and timeless (think white dangle earrings) instead of trendy and cheap. The goal: shop for the kind of pieces that will look equally fab in 10 years’ time.
Where to Wear: Anywhere where ‘Fabulous’ is the actual dress code.
RENT / SHOP THIS LOOK:Trina Turk Hedy Jumpsuit / Patou Mac Coat, AJAR IVORY Ankle Boots / White South Sea Pearl Bonnie Earrings / 14K Gold White Freshwater Pearl Beaded Bangle Bracelet / ZAC Zac Posen Chantalle Saddle Bag
An All-White Pearlcore-Galore Ensemble
When in doubt, go all white. A monochromatic ensemble is always one of the best Christmas outfits out there. It’s curated, sleek – and in this case, warm and cozy too. A basic sweater dress and a teddy coat are a given, but what takes this desaturated pairing to the next level is the infused pearlcore vibes, with a tad of Light Academia. One of the major trends of the past year, pearlcore is all about adorning yourself with the gems of the seas. Pair your sweater dress with a pearl-overload handbag, uber-trendy pearl hoop earrings and a luminous pearl ring as finger bling.
Where to Wear: Anywhere except near the chimney. That level of whiteness is high maintenance – but well worth it.
SHOP THIS LOOK:
Ribbed Knit Fitted Mini Sweater Dress / Tanzee Boot Bone, White Freshwater Pearl Kylie Earrings / Pearl Shoulder Bag (out of stock) / White South Sea Pearl & Diamond Jackie Ring / Gertrude Long Teddy Coat
Classic Pairings: The Upgraded Little Black Frock
Once again, the classics can’t go wrong. If a sweater dress is not your vibe, a little black dress is a safe bet regardless if we’re chatting about Christmas outfits or looking like a flawless boss lady at work. The trick is to metamorphose your fave black frock (or dark burgundy, or dark plum, or emerald) into a veritable holiday magic look. How to do just that: first, add strappy sleek heels. Go for red hot lips. Opt for a sleek clutch in a solid tone. And, last but not least, go all in on elegant jewelry pieces, like a classic pearl strand and white pearl studs.
Where to wear: From the soiree to hosting a large gathering at home and from the office party to couple’s Christmas – you choose.
SHOP THIS LOOK:
Puff Sleeve Shift Dress, 9-11mm White South Sea Pearl Necklace – AAAA Quality / Amelina Suede Ankle-Strap Sandals / 9mm South Sea Round Pearl Stud Earrings, Bella Mini Crossbody / Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution Lipstick – The Queen
Looking for warm glow instead of the crisp white pearls? Shop the GOLDEN GLAM look!
Shop the Pearl Earrings / Shop the Pearl Necklace / Shop the Pearl Bracelet
The Groovy Maximalist’s Mixed Prints Bonanza
A maximalist’s Christmas dream outfit forgoes all the rules. Hot pink corduroy for Christmas? Why not. Layers over layers? Yes again! Mixing prints? That’s a must. If your fashion style is rather experimental, eclectic, boosting of color or a merge of boho and 70s aesthetics, then we’ve got a winner. Creating a groovy Christmas Eve outfit is all about the right layers and proportions. Start with block heeled platforms and flared pants in true disco era fashion. Layer a graphic fair isle vest knit over a white button-down and get creative on the accessories. A pair of floral mother of pearl earrings, layered necklaces in rosy hues and a beaded patterned clutch are all hits.
Where to Wear: Anywhere during the day – brunch, lunch, unwrapping presents and other festive activities. Or back in time at the 70s disco.
SHOP THIS LOOK:
Vince Classic Cotton Shirt, Anthropologie Beaded Floral Clutch / LA FETICHE Josef Fair Isle Wool Sweater Vest (out of stock) / See By Chloé Cila Heels / Victoria Beckham Alina Corduroy Wide-Leg Trousers / White Freshwater Button-Shape Cultured Pearl on Mother of Pearl Flower Lotus Earrings / 15mm White Freshwater Baroque Pearl Solitaire Designer Pendant / 14K Gold Japanese Akoya Pearl & Chain Link Necklace
Alternative Lush Shades & Satin Finishes
If poppy red is not your shade, take the jewel-toned route. Shades like dark magenta, plum, mahogany and ruby are all welcomed alternatives as Christmas party outfits, especially when they come in lustrous fabrics. Satiny dresses and form-fitting blazers make a great combo when paired with velvety heels for that anticipated Christmas party. For extra visual interest, add a statement bag that corrals your outfit’s colors. Jewel tones pair exceptionally well with dark gemstones like blue-green and peacock, so opt for black pearls in iridescent overtones for an added touch of moody intensity.
Where to Wear: Out partying – or partying at home, why not.
SHOP THIS LOOK:
CITY CHIC Ahanna Dress (out of stock) / Manon Baptiste Majestic Blazer (out of stock) / Double Braided Band Open Square Toe Stiletto Dress Heel / 14K Gold Black Akoya Pearl Cluster Earrings / Tahitian South Sea Pearl & Diamond Ariella Ring / Embellished Crossbody Bag
The Minimalist’s Christmas Aesthetic: Simplified Festive-Casual
Sometimes, the best outfit ideas are the understated ones. For all the minimalists out there, with love. Not too keen on embracing all the sequins and the sparkle this holiday season? Not looking for OTT Christmas party outfits? For a simplified approach to Christmas fashion, take this easy and effortless shortcut: a tee for a woman of few words, your favorite pair of denims, a minimalist’s fave single pearl necklace and a pair of flat pumps. In mandatory red, of course.
Where to Wear: Wherever ‘festive attire’ or ‘formal attire’ aren’t the mandatory dress codes.
SHOP THIS LOOK:
The Minimalist Jolly Shirt / The Way-High Jean / 7mm Freshwater Pearl Silver Adjustable Chain Necklace / Women’s Pointed Toe Ballet Flats
A Play of High & Low: Red Wool and Metallics
A mix of high and low has never looked this good. Good styling is, often times, a game of juxtaposition. Worried you’ll look to polished? ‘Demote’ your fancy-sheeny Christmas outfit with the help of a woolly sweater. Or perhaps worried you’re not looking polished enough? Upgrade that oversize sweater with a glimmery skirt. Basically, you get the best of two worlds: comfort and glam, all in one.
Where to Wear: Hosting at home, for a family photo-shoot or as a Christmas party outfit where you’re going for ‘effortlessly chic’.
SHOP THIS LOOK:
Cropped Displaced-Sleeve Roll-Neck Wool Sweater (out of stock) / Pink Freshwater Pearl & Diamond Jordana Ring / ELLE METALLIC PLEAT SKIRT (out of stock) / Pink Mother of Pearl & Cubic Zirconia Eloise Earrings / Genuine Suede Leather Clutch Bag / Taylor Leather Slingback Sandals
Elevated Loungewear: Velvety Christmas Mornings
Ah, those lazy Christmas mornings spent near the tree, unwrapping gift after gift – they’re quite magical. You want to look good enough for a family photo, yet comfortable enough for a lounging on the couch afterwards. The obvious solution: elevated loungewear, in the form of a velvet robe and matching pants. Added into the mix: a silky camisole and elevated indoor mules, plus a dangling pendant in pastel hues.
Where to Wear: At home, by the fire and around the Christmas tree. Or in that picturesque mountain cabin.
SHOP THIS LOOK:
Bon Vivant Velvet Robe / SLEEPING WITH JACQUES Velvet Pants / Leopard Print Silk Camisole / 14K Gold Multicolor Freshwater Pearl Tincup Cluster Pendant / Lavina Buckle Mules
Sophisticated Combos for the Christmas Party: Velvet and Metallics
Sometimes, it’s hard to compete with the classics. And when it comes to Christmas outfit ideas, the classics couldn’t be more obvious: red, velvet, sparkles and pearls. Have it all in a look that screams sophistication from head to toe. Pair up metallics with rich mahogany reds and ivory gems of the seas for a timelessly elegant combo that’s perfect for a posh soiree.
Where to Wear: Hosting at home, at a posh Christmas bash or at a family reunion.
SHOP THIS LOOK:
Adrianna Papell Velvet Tuxedo Dress, Burgundy / 13-16mm Freshwater Multicolor Baroque Pearl Necklace – AAA Quality / Whistles Lilley Leather Block Heel Sandals / 14K Gold Drop-Shape Freshwater Pearl Iris Earrings / SANGRIA Clutch
The Cool Christmas Factor: On-Trend Tartan
The latest trends, merged with Christmas fashion? You’ve got it. Keep it cool in black with a form-hugging bodysuit and a pair of over-the-knee black boots. Add a pop of color and holiday spirit with an asymmetric tartan print skirt. Finish it off with a mini bag and an iridescent drop pendant for that much-needed touch of shimmer.
Where to Wear: Wherever you’d like during the day.
SHOP THIS LOOK:
Colorado Thong Bodysuit / P.A.R.O.S.H. Asymmetric Check Skirt / Padded Rounded Shoulder Bag / Tahitian South Sea Drop Pearl Denise Pendant / L.K.Bennett Kiran Knee High Suede Boots /
Cabin Chic: Knits and Saturated Reds
Spending Christmas Day in the mountains, in an instagrammable cabin in the middle of the forest? Then a few equally instagrammable Christmas outfit ideas are in order. Mix comfort with chicness with a rich red wool knit in a fair isle pattern (a sweater dress will work just as well), opt for chunky mountain boots, an oversized beanie and the mandatory slouchy socks. Keep the bling to a minimum with a surfer leather bracelet – and grab a hot chocolate mug for that perfect Christmas aesthetic shot that’s gonna get all the likes.
Wear to Wear: In the mountains, snowball fighting, chilling with friends.
SHOP THIS LOOK:
Willow Fair Isle Cable-Knit Sweater / Mountain Light Boot / Long Butter Jeggings / Womens Satin Lined Winter Beanie / 11mm White South Sea Baroque Pearl Leather Bracelet / Cream White Alpaca Bed Socks
Christmas Outfit Ideas – Final Thoughts
Excited for the ultra-chic festive season ahead yet? We can’t blame you, so are we. It’s a jolly, jolly time, filled with vibrant hues, fun patterns, party outfits, cozy knits and sumptuous fabrics from head to toe, plus iridescent bling to match the festive occasion. Forgo the trends and definitely do you – whether you’re all about wrapping yourself in oversized red plaid scarves or getting dolled up to the nines in burgundy satin.
Which look are you going for this Christmas? A toned-down sweater dress look or bold party outfits that scream ‘festive’? Which one is your go-to favorite Christmas aesthetic? Pick your fave Christmas outfit ideas and let us know in the comments below!
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