It’s officially the holiday season, which means there’s a lot on our minds: finding the perfect gifts for everyone on our lists, coordinating schedules, attending winter-y events, and making time for friends and family… That doesn’t leave a lot of room (or energy, for that matter) for planning what you’ll actually be wearing through it all.
If your calendar’s already filled with a bunch of holiday gatherings, fear not: We’ve combed through our Instagram feeds to find as much party outfit inspo as possible — whether that’s a work get-together, cocktail event, or end-of-year friend hang that calls for a little dressing up. Ahead, you’ll find elegant takes on black and white, runway-approved burgundy, lingerie-inspired detailing, and so much more that, hopefully, will help you decide what this season’s festive wardrobe will look like.
Work Holiday Party Dresses
Work Holiday Party Outfit Idea: Black & White
You can’t go wrong with black and white, as proven here by this sophisticated drop-waist maxi. Style the look with a blazer or cropped coat if your location is on the colder side.
Work Holiday Party Outfit Idea: Fringed Dress
The fringed skirt immediately makes this dress feel more playful and celebratory — and what should your work holiday party outfit be if not exactly that? Use it as an opportunity to mix and match colours and patterns with your outerwear.
Work Holiday Party Outfit Idea: Festive Florals
You’ll be sure to stand out among your coworkers (in a good way) by opting for something bright and floral. The puffed shoulders on this dress take the look up a notch, and you can add even more of the holiday spirit by accessorizing with a pair of shimmery shoes.
Work Holiday Party Outfit Idea: Animal Print
Switch up the traditional holiday colour palette with a bold animal print. We all know leopard has been dominant this year, but you try a zebra or snakeskin print.
Work Holiday Party Outfit Idea: Shades of Brown
Shades of brown — whether a rich, deep chocolate or a more wood-y cool-tone — can feel appropriately indulgent for this time of year. A silk or satin fabrication also make a dress feel that much more luxe.
Work Holiday Party Outfit Idea: Sequinned Dress
Because when else could you wear something this shiny to a work function?
Holiday Cocktail Party Dresses
Holiday Cocktail Party Outfit Idea: Black Dress
A black maxi may seem obvious for a holiday cocktail party, but it’s a classic look for a reason. The long sleeves and high slit on this one make for a minimalist dream.
Holiday Cocktail Party Outfit Idea: Off-The-Shoulder Dress
It’s hard to go wrong with a sleek off-the-shoulder dress, but you get bonus points if yours is festive, on-trend burgundy.
Holiday Cocktail Party Outfit Idea: One-Shoulder Dress
We love the asymmetrical look of a one-shoulder dress, especially one with a long, billow-y sleeve. If you’re comfortable pushing the limits of your holiday dress code, how fun would a bright neon hue be to wear during the festive season?
Holiday Cocktail Party Outfit Idea: Sheer Skirt
Take a style cue from Sofia Richie Grainge and opt for a gown with a sheer skirt — it fits the occasion, but adds a dimension of interest to the ‘fit.
Holiday Cocktail Party Outfit Idea: Lace Dress
Lingerie-inspired details, like the ones on this slip dress, are the perfect way to feel both dressed up and sensual in your outfit.
Holiday Cocktail Party Outfit Idea: Open-Back Dress
We’re expecting to see a lot of high-neck dresses on the holiday party circuit this season. Add a little intrigue by choosing a silhouette that also features an open back. The sparkles pictured here are optional, but very welcome.
Holiday Cocktail Party Outfit Idea: Metallic Dress
If carefully spaced-out gems aren’t enough shine for you, put on a metallic dress that shines all over. Think of how pretty it will look reflecting the lights hanging nearby.
Holiday Maxi Dresses
Holiday Party Outfit Idea: Sleeveless Maxi Dress
Don’t let the cold stop you from wearing your most elegant sleeveless dress. We love the contrasting materials in the bodice and skirt pictured here.
Holiday Party Outfit Idea: Red Maxi Dress
Red for the holidays? Groundbreaking. But you can take your holiday look to the next level by going all in, styling it with red tights, a red coat, red shoes, and a red handbag.
Holiday Party Outfit Idea: Sheer Maxi Dress
Dress to impress in a slinky sheer maxi dress. Half of the fun here is in how you layer the accessories and pieces underneath.
Holiday Party Outfit Idea: Maxi Dress With Cutouts
Just like an open-back dress can make a high-neck maxi more exciting, so, too, can cutouts at the waist.
Holiday Party Outfit Idea: Flannel Maxi Dress
If your holiday party is on the more casual side, you can always rely on a flannel maxi dress. The nap style is also perfect for staying comfy when a big family meal is involved.
Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
10 Party Dress & Shoes Combos To Inspire All Your