With party season nearly upon us, the annual outfit dilemmas are starting to flood the group chat. Does the office holiday celebration call for an LBD or a structured midi? Should you wear sequins or velvet for the cocktail soirée? Stiletto boots or ballet flats to the dinner party?
Fortunately, partywear has gotten looser over the years — which means there’s no one formula for the perfect holiday outfit. The runways have given us permission — encouraged us, even — to style dresses over trousers and to don our cowboy boots to the function. Meanwhile, designer-approved trends like bubble skirts and burgundy hues are very adaptable, as suitable for the office as the dance floor.
For the planners and procrastinators alike, scroll on for 10 modern dress-and-shoes combinations — courtesy of 10 stylish creators — to see you through all of December.
Slip Dress and Sneakers
Level up the comfort of your favourite slip dress (preferably one with lace detailing or a festive colourway) with a pair of dad sneakers.
Lace Dress With Boots (And Trousers)
The dress-over-pants trend is a holiday season-win. Pair a sheer dress with heeled boots and trousers to stay warm and chic.
Neon Brights
Make a statement with highlighter-bright hues. Colour-block your favourite neons and wait for the compliments to flow.
Cocktail Dress and Platform Heels
If the party calls for more formal attire, a black cocktail dress will always come through with holiday glam. Pair with platform sandals for a more comfortable shoe option.
Playing With Prints
Dare to wear a bold print for a festive night on the town. Play with florals, stripes or animal patterns and link them up with a biker boot for a trendy touch.
Holiday Hues
Reds and greens are no-brainers this time of year. Style one colour from head to toe, pair the hues together, or play around with non-traditional shades, like a forest green or deep burgundy.
Maxi Dress and Tall Boots
One for the work parties and daytime get-togethers: A maxi dress with knee-high boots make a timeless look.
Metallic Magic
Own the festive theme with a metallic dress and accessories. Add some interest by layering with a graphic tee or utilitarian jacket.
Sequin Mini and Heels
Sequin and diamanté details are a party lover’s best friend. Sparkle in a cool printed mini and with bold heels to match.
Bubbling Up
2024 has been the year of the bubble hem, so it’s only right to end it in one. Wear a mini or maxi with ballet flats, knee-high boots or a solid pair of pumps.
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