So Many Holiday Parties and Nothing to Wear—9 Looks for Every Occasion

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(Image credit: @misodam@mimi.orere)

It’s been a minute since I’ve had to prepare serious looks, so this holiday season, I’m looking forward to coming properly to every single event, no matter how casual. It’s been almost three years since I’ve seen so many friends, and this year feels like a reintroduction to the world. The long time away from friends can feel like an obstacle to overcome, but I actually love that we can skip the small talk and get straight into the thick of it. I imagine many of my friends have changed, as have I, and I’m hoping the outfits reflect that.

Being the obsessive shopper that I am, I have plucked nine outfits from Instagram that are worth re-creating for all the parties you plan to attend this month. I'm talking plumage, bling, not-your-average sequins, and beyond, so keep scrolling to see the statement outfits that make winter look fun.

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1. Button-Down Shirt + Mini Skirt + Heels
(Image credit: @mimi.orere )

What a fresh way to style a button-down! It’s hard to make a feather-trimmed skirt look laid-back, but Mimi nailed it. Keep the jewelry and accessories to a minimum in order to let the star of the show do her thing.

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2. Off-the-Shoulder Top + Maxi Skirt + Belt
(Image credit: @raayya)

When it comes to dressing up, Raya is my queen. Her ensembles always expand my range and inspire me to step out of my comfort zone. This voluminous skirt is so timeless. Perhaps my favorite part of this look is the heavy metal accessorizing, which makes a classic outfit still feel very current. In case you haven’t heard, the maxi skirt is here to stay, so it’s worth getting ahead of the trend now.

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3. Cut-Out Dress + Statement Earrings + Mini Tote Bag
(Image credit: @aka.kimbui )

I'm loving the barely-there cut-outs on this long Jonathan Simkhai dress. A hint is more than enough. Pair your cut-out dress with statement earrings and a mini tote to stay within the minimalist theme. 

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4. Front-Tie Top + Trousers + Gold Accessories
(Image credit: @thevisuelofgrace)

Front-tie tops are some of the newer ’90s-inspired pieces on the market this year. Style them with tailored pants for even more attitude. Now, where’s my espresso martini?

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5. Sparkly Dress + Matching Accessories
(Image credit: @misodam )

A sparkly dress is practically synonymous with the holidays, so you might as well lean in. Disc sequins are a cool way to partake in the trend without looking played out. Match the accessories to the dress—we don’t want to distract everyone from the main event.

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6. Plaid Skirt + Fitted Top + Mid-Calf Boots
(Image credit: @shhtephs )

This midi skirt is the older sister of the pleated-mini-skirt trend we saw blazing all spring and summer. The mid-calf boots are the perfect height for this length skirt and look super cool in a retro way.

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7. Metallic Separates + Cowboy Boots
(Image credit: @meganadelaide )

As we venture into the era of the Metaverse, a space-cowgirl outfit is probably most appropriate. Metallic separates are one of the more challenging outfits to get right but have a high payoff when done well. Stick as close to the same hue as possible, and use texture to add interest to the look. And of course, finish it off with some cowboy boots.

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8. Sheer Skirt + Button-Down Shirt + Pointed Heels
(Image credit: @annabelrosendahl)

Sheer skirts are one of my favorite trends this year. When it comes to styling them, reach for button-downs and simple tops as shown. This sheer lace skirt does a good job at obstructing some of the transparency, so don’t be shy.

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9. Corset + Hair Bow + Stud Earrings
(Image credit: @champagnemani )

Wear this outfit to a friend’s house party, and bring all the cheer.

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Next up, if you too are meeting the family over the holidays, stick with these 7 outfits.

Contributor