Must Have Holiday Party Looks for Every Occasion

There’s something about the holiday season that makes getting dressed feel a little more fun — the sparkle, the velvet, the excuse to go bold. Whether your calendar is stacked with cocktail hours, office parties, or New Year’s Eve plans, I pulled together a few outfit combinations that make dressing up feel effortless but still special.

Flat lay of black satin halter top, sequin skirt, silver bow heels, and rhinestone earrings styled for a chic holiday party look.

1. The Classic Black + Sequin Look

If there’s one combo that never misses — it’s black satin and sequins. Pair a structured halter with a sequin midi skirt and metallic heels to strike that perfect balance between festive and refined. The bow details and crystal drop earrings keep it flirty without going over the top.
This one’s made for cocktail hours, dinner parties, or anywhere the dress code says festive but you want to keep it chic.

Flat lay of brown velvet sleeveless top with matching pants, gold earrings, black clutch, and heeled mules for an elegant holiday outfit.

2. Velvet, But Make It Modern

Velvet can feel old-school — until you style it right. A chocolate brown velvet set with a sleeveless top and wide-leg pants instantly feels rich and unexpected. Stack a few bangles, add sculptural gold earrings, and finish with a glossy lip.
It’s an understated statement — one that feels just as good for a holiday dinner as it does a cozy night at home with friends and champagne.

Flat lay of sparkly studded jeans, black long-sleeve top, kitten heels, and crystal earrings — casual holiday party outfit.

3. The Sparkly Denim Moment

Because not every holiday event calls for sequins and heels. For something casual-cool, swap your mini dress for studded jeans and a sleek knit. Add kitten heels, a woven clutch, and long crystal earrings. It’s relaxed, still festive, and very “cool girl skipping the dress code.”

hree holiday dresses — navy sequin mini, black dress with silver bow detail, and velvet mini with lace inset — perfect for New Year’s Eve.

4. The New Year’s Eve Edit

When the clock’s about to hit midnight, go all in. Think high shine, structured silhouettes, and rich jewel tones. A sequin mini, metallic bow heels, or a dress with unexpected textures — lace, velvet, or silver detailing — will always photograph beautifully. These looks are made for the dance floor (or the photo booth).

Holiday style doesn’t have to be complicated. Pick textures that feel good, silhouettes that flatter, and accessories that make you sparkle — literally and figuratively.