Finding the right outfit for the holidays can be challenging. I’ve never really been tasked with the job of dressing up for a holiday party until recently when my husband asked me to dress up for his fire departments Christmas celebration.

 

Trying to find a beautiful holiday outfit that’s bright, flattering, and affordable is challenging enough. But add to the fact that you wanted to be ethically sourced and it’s like trying to find a needle in a haystack.

For me, anytime I dress, comfort is a huge factor.

I don’t love the idea wearing a skimpy outfit or fancy high heels when it’s cold outside or when I’m going to be standing or dancing. When you’re comfortable you’ll always appear more sexy and confident!

one / / Uniqlo High-Waisted Chiffon Pleated Skirt

 

So let’s keep things simple. You know this is my motto. For this holiday outfit, I thought it would be grand to put together something a little counterintuitive. First of all, we’re ditching the party dress and heels and opting for a more girly, 1940’s glam vibe. Another rule we’re playing with here is mixing gold and silver.

I know you might be cringing right now, but trust me. It works!

Starting with a base layer skirt is ideal because you can wear footless tights underneath to add an extra element of warmth.

I like this affordable pleated skirt from Uniqlo. They have some super cute and affordable basics right now. Keep in mind that with a higher waisted skirt like this (especially if it’s an elastic waistband) you will need to either wear a belt or a blouse that wraps or ties in front.

two / / JCrew 14k Gold-Plated Paper Clip Earrings

Simple is always better. Because these are very dainty and elegant they add just the right amount of pizazz to this outfit. If they were larger earrings or more dangly I don’t think they would work.

If your outfit is very bold, stick with one color of jewelry or choose to wear fewer pieces at one time. A gold bangle in a similar style would go nicely with this look if you didn’t want to wear a necklace or earrings.

three / / Everlane Leather Clutch

Red for the holidays! But what’s so cool about this leather clutch, is that will carry through every season. It’s a classic piece and can work with any outfit you have.

I went for the clutch with this look because it elevates and modernizes the 1940’s vibe. A longer “evening purse” would have kept this look stuck in a time warp.

Clutches are more elegant as well. And when the holiday party is over, you can use this as an insert in your normal day-to-day handbag or tote bag.

four / / Madewell Crushed Velvet Flats

Crushed velvet is making a huge comeback right now and it’s one trend I’m really glad is making its rounds. I love the idea of breaking the rules with fashion and opting for a more girly flat when most people are going for a heeled shoe or boot.

With these mary jane style flats, you’ll be able to stand and dance without regretting it. Plus these will work well with jeans, skirts, and slacks in the Spring.

five // Lisa Says Gah Metallic Wrap Top

 

This is a super fun and super out there blouse. I know it’s not for everyone, but I’m into it. What’s so neat about this blouse from LSG, is that creates such a statement. I would totally wear this with jeans.

If the bold blouse isn’t you, just swap this silvery one out for a simple white or black. Wrap shirts like this are easy to find in basic colors with longer sleeves. They are also very flattering when paired with a higher waisted item. If you’re smaller on top than on the bottom, a wrap blouse or shirt like this will accentuate you in the right places.

six / / JCrew 14k Gold-Plated Paper Clip Necklace

Since there is a lot going on with this outfit, I don’t want it to look too visually overwhelming. I would definitely keep my hair and makeup low key with neutral lips and cheeks. Something else you can do to keep a look streamlined is to wear simpler jewelry that matches.

This necklace is in the same style as the earrings so it creates visual consistency.

In conclusion

Holiday dressing can be fun and comfortable. Play with breaking the rules a little and try incorporating more unique items to your look.

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I’d love to help you feel and look your best. If you need some style advice for the fall/winter, don’t hesitate to reach out and schedule your free 15 minute Style Sesh with me. Hop over to my contact page and shoot me an email!