Hate Holiday Dresses? How to Dress Up Your Jeans for Party Season

There’s nothing wrong with opting for a polished denim look over a flashy holiday dress (if the dress code permits, of course). But how, exactly, do you dress up your favorite pair of skinnies or distressed jeans? We have 12 looks to help you out, just in time for the holiday party circuit. From layering with the right outerwear to stepping up your accessories, here are the styling tips you need to create festive denim outfits!

Scroll through for 12 amazing outfit ideas.

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(Image credit: Collage Vintage)

To add a luxe vibe to your look, wear a leather top with sleek, black skinny jeans and pointed-toe heels.

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Wear a fitted turtleneck, black blazer, and bright heels for a simple holiday-ready outfit. For an even more polished finish, try belting your outerwear.

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(Image credit: Song of Style)

A tailored two-tone blazer and statement shoes, like these strappy heels, instantly dress up your look.

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(Image credit: Style Me Grasie)

Our favorite dressy denim look of the season? A pair of high-rise jeans worn with this bodysuit for a subtly sexy ensemble.

Related: Season After Season, This Outfit Combo Stays on Top—10 Fresh Ways to Try It

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(Image credit: Collage Vintage)

Make a bold statement by pairing your skinnies with a colorful furry coat and black boots.

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(Image credit: Style Du Monde)

Go for a tuxedo-inspired look by jazzing up your jeans with a crisp button-down, an oversized bow tied loosely around the collar, and a sequin jacket.

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(Image credit: Man Repeller)

Combine cropped denim with a black camisole, classic tan coat, and sparkly shoes for a look that’s but not over the top.

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(Image credit: Man Repeller)

For a cozy, comfortable look that doesn’t feel overly casual, just wear sleek, flared jeans with delicate jewelry and a timeless knit sweater.

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(Image credit: Look de Pernille)

A sheer button-down and shiny boots amp up the cool factor of a pair of skinny black jeans. Bonus points for bright red nail polish!

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Try wearing a sleeveless dress over a white oxford shirt and cuffed jeans for a truly unique and eye-catching ensemble 

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(Image credit: A Love Is Blind)

An embellished jacket adds intrigue to a simple top, skinny jeans, and over-the-knee boots.

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(Image credit: What The Chung)

Layer a textured jacket over a laid-back denim look to make your ensemble appropriate for evening.

On Chung: Ashley B Shearling Asymmetrical Jacket ($1187).

What’s your favorite way to dress up your jeans for holiday season? Give us the details in the comments below!

Michelle Scanga
Managing Editor
Who's your style icon?

Cher

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@infatuation @realisationpar @erinfoster @talitavon @lookdepernille 

What's the fashion essential you can’t live without?

A great pair of high-rise skinny jeans.