During any other year, December is all about the glitz and glamour but this year things feel a little different. With Christmas celebrations happening on a much smaller scale, office party dresses and pub crawl-appropriate outfits have become virtually obsolete. But just because the festivities are a bit more intimate this year, doesn’t mean that we can’t get dressed up for ourselves.
Whether you’re celebrating as a small bubble of family members or spending your first Christmas with your flatmates, the time for festive fashion is upon us. You might not normally be the person who plans what they’re wearing to Christmas dinner but this year we’re taking the wins where we can get them and donning our finery to scarf down our Yorkshire puds.
If you’re more inclined to cosy up in your comfiest loungewear this Christmas, then we’ve got you covered too. Perhaps it’s a pair of slippers to wear while you demolish your selection box or a fluffy coat to see you well into the New Year – either way, our wish lists are jam-packed with festive fashion finds this month. To take a peek at everything Team R29 are lusting after this December, click through the slideshow ahead…
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
If the idea of whipping out your old faithful (wine-stained) party dress isn’t filling you with joy, you’ll be happy to know that our favourite stores have brought their A game, just in time for the social marathon that is December.
Team R29 are well and truly embracing the festive spirit when it comes to our wardrobe choices. Yes, there are a few sequins here and there but there is also a flurry of festive brights, fluffy jackets and statement suits. As for accessories, we’re sticking with satin headbands well into the new year, as well as a collection of rainbow jewels and two-tone clutch bags.
So if you’re looking to spice up your wardrobe this winter, scroll through to see the pieces we’re hoping will magically appear under the tree this Christmas… Georgia Murray, Fashion EditorJewellery is one of the things I never treat myself to so it feels special when it’s given as a gift. I love a gold hoop that I don’t have to take out for showers or before bed, and these by Lucy Williams for Missoma are just the ticket.
Lucy Williams x Missoma Gold Tiny Orb Hinged Hoop Earrings, $, available at Missoma
Conscious denim brand seventy + mochi is a new discovery for me but I’ve already added several of their pieces to my wish list, from the high-waisted jeans to this gorgeous blouse. Relaxed enough to pair with jeans and boots at the weekend but fancy enough for important Zoom calls.
seventy + mochi Victoria Blouse in Washed Indigo Denim, $, available at seventy + mochi
From Grenson and Dr. Martens to Danner and Red Wing, my lace-up boot collection is already pretty impressive but considering I’ve been walking seriously since lockdown in March, it doesn’t feel too indulgent to add another pair to my wish list.
Alicia Lansom, Editorial AssistantHave you ever seen cuter tights in your life? In my dreams, I would pair these with Prada loafers; in reality, I’ll probably wear them around the house with fluffy slippers.
Calzedonia Tulle Tights With Back Seam And Velvet Bow, $, available at Calzedonia
I’m determined to make 2021 the year that I get my act together when it comes to my jewellery box. In particular, I want to start wearing more rings, but I find it hard to type while wearing anything too chunky. The solution? This silver chain collection containing three dainty designs.
Daisy, Daisy Jewellery Box and Open Curb Chain Ring Stack Sterling Silver, $, available at Daisy, Daisy Jewellery
I know the price is ridiculous but it doesn’t stop me wanting it. The pattern, the fabric, the shape – this fluffy wonder is everything a coat should be. Santa, if you’re listening, let’s talk.
Jessica Morgan, Staff WriterWhen you get to my age (sigh) you begin to misplace socks, no matter how many times you restock your wardrobe. So hello, I am once again asking that someone — anyone — gift me some cosy socks for Christmas.
Le Chameau Shooting Socks, $, available at Le Chameau
During my childhood I had a bold, red pair of Kickers that I would prance around the playground in, getting scuffed up and dirty, to my mother’s despair. Kickers has now re-released the shoe for its 50th anniversary and there’s nothing I yearn for more than to relive those happier times.
I’m so glad that the ’90s fleece style is back in fashion (although these things never really go out of fashion if you’re a country hiker girl like me). These bold prints are just what I need to keep me cosy and stylish through winter. Need and want.
berghaus Unisex Ascent Fleece 91, $, available at berghaus
Kristine Romano, Photo & Design AssistantMy IG feed has been filled with lots of small independent businesses just in time for the holiday season and I couldn’t help but stop at the sight of these. Night Time Holiday has lots of great pieces but these handmade earrings in particular are the funky silver hoops of my dreams.
Night Time Holiday Scallop Hoop Earrings, $, available at Night Time Holiday
My 1461 Dr. Martens lace-ups are undoubtedly my most worn shoes. I’ve long been thinking about investing in the boot version and as we enter colder and wetter months, I think now might be the time. I’ll have a look through Depop or eBay first – if I can skip the break-in period, I happily will!
Dr Martens 1460 Mono Smooth Leather Ankle Boots, $, available at DR MARTENS
As much as I love getting cosy during the winter, I truly hate getting out of the shower when it’s cold. This bathrobe by Tekla is high on the wish list as it looks warm, soft and durable, and doubles up perfectly as loungewear. At this point, I have little interest in getting properly dressed.
Jacqueline Kilikita, Beauty EditorI’ve barely styled my hair since working from home and I like to keep it off my face. My trusty scrunchie collection is looking a bit scruffy now, though, so I would really love these Little Mermaid-inspired shell clips. Seriously cute.
Valet Ursula Shell Hair Clips Set Of Two, $, available at Liberty London
This Ganni tee is giving me Nirvana vibes and seeing as my wardrobe is filled to bursting with rock band merch, it makes sense that I love it. It’s a little more chic than the worn-out tees I currently own and the slogan means I won’t have to formally sign off on Zoom calls.
Ganni Smiling Face Print Jersey T-Shirt, $, available at Matches Fashion
I’m on the lookout for a shiny new winter coat and I think I’ve found it. Cosy? Check. Pockets? Tick. It makes a change from my all-black wardrobe and I could toughen it up with my many pairs of Doc Marten boots.
& Other Stories Oversized Faux Shearling Coat, $, available at & Other Stories
Sadhbh O’Sullivan, Health & Living WriterAt this time of year I would normally be looking for partywear and vintage Christmas jumpers to fill my life with festive spirit. Not this year though. If I’m buying myself anything this December I want it to be joyful and support artists and brands I love. Perhaps most importantly, I want it to be something I’ll wear year-round, which is why I’ll be getting into this gorgeous T-shirt design by Ro Ledesma. It’s so hopeful and charming! I want to feel like I too will be blooming again soon.
Ro Ledesma Blooming Again T-Shirt, $, available at Everpress
I’ve somehow avoided buying any loungewear so far, either sticking to pyjama bottoms or tricking myself into working by wearing jeans. But after nine months I think the time has come. Pangaia was first in our list of sustainable loungewear for good reason, and the bright orange colour will make lazy dressing fun again. I hope!
Pangaia Heavyweight Recycled Cotton Track Pants, $, available at Pangaia
I’m obsessed with this collaboration. When I started really getting into knitting this year, Laura Dalgaard was one of the first people I followed and quickly became one of my biggest inspirations. I love that she’s collaborated with Pura Utz, a Danish-based ethical jewellery brand.
Laura Dalgaard Knit Kit / Blue Crew Neck, $, available at Pura Utz
Meg O’Donnell, Art Editor My sister has a similar jumper to this in a gorgeous baby blue and I steal it often. I’m thinking it’s probably about time I got my own. The neckline is really quite stunning and I will be teaming it with some classy dangly earrings, a dainty little necklace and hair scraped back in a cute ballerina bun. Ensemble well and truly planned – the top half at least!
Mango Boat Neck Knit Sweater, $, available at Mango
I am moving soon (fingers crossed) to a house with a bath. Bliss! Levels of excitement for this gorgeous dressing gown hung up waiting for me after a glass of wine and a bubble bath are sky high. Official adulthood right there.
The White Company Unisex Cotton Waffle Double Faced Robe, $, available at The White Company
Are these the most adorable damn sneaks you’ve ever seen in your life? The answer is yes and they are well and truly on my Xmas list. Mom, if you’re reading this…
Good News Good News Palm High, $, available at pam pam london
Georgia Murray, Junior Fashion EditorMy gold hoop obsession isn’t going anywhere fast. I’ve got every chunky style under the sun, but this more subtle pair from Birdsong is next on my wish list.
Birdsong Medium Gold Hoops, $, available at Birdsong
Dora Larsen makes the prettiest lingerie. I love her use of colour and have wanted to get my hands on a set all year. Finally, Christmas is an excuse to treat myself.
Dora Larsen Sadie High Apex Underwire Bra, $, available at Dora Larsen
This coat is everything I’ve been searching for and more. Navy! Suede! Vegan! I’ll be wearing with kick-flare denim and party dresses. Penny Lane called…
Katy Harrington, Managing EditorI feel like I should have a pair of shoes that are not 10-year-old Converse which invite puddle water inside, not tennis shoes and not the one pair of heels I bought a decade ago for a wedding and removed before I was out of the taxi. These are flat, leopard and have sparkly bits. Still guaranteed to lose one or both before NYE 2020.
ASOS DESIGN League Mary Jane Ballet Flats With Rhinestones, $, available at ASOS
My feelings about 2019 in diamanté hair accessory form. Party!
Ashley Williams Crystal Bad Hair Slides, $, available at Farfetch
I can’t remember the last time I bought clothes, never mind spent over £300 on a single dress but this one made my heart leap so I think it’s worth the investment. I will wear it for my birthday party, work Christmas party, family Christmas dinner and 100,000 Irish cousins’ nights out over December so eh, how much does that work out at for price per wear?
Sadhbh O’Sullivan, Health and Living WriterChristmas is the perfect excuse to bring back a sweater vest, the brasher the better. With a white high neck, green cords and Dr. Martens I’ll finally look like one of those posed late 20th century Christmas family photos, just like I always dreamed (especially as this comes directly from the 1990s). This is Christmas daywear, baby!
BEYOND RETRO 1990’s Festive Print Christmas Vest, $, available at Beyond Retro
I don’t need a new suit so I’m trying really hard not to buy one for our Christmas party… But if I did it would 100% be this reclaimed vintage number. It’s built for flimsy paper hats and 1am karaoke versions of Anastacia’s “I’m Outta Love”…
Reclaimed Vintage Reclaimed Vintage Inspired Blazer Suit In Silver, $, available at ASOS
… which I would pair with this secondhand Celine clutch bag. What a beaut. Any designer (even secondhand) may be well outside my tax bracket right now but let me dream!
Jessica Morgan, Staff WriterI have lost count of the number of snazzy headbands I have bought from Anthropologie and while they are not necessarily budget-friendly, I can’t help but treat myself to a new one each month. This beautifully regal (and Christmas-friendly) green headband is next on my list. Hey, I grew up with Gossip Girl – can you blame me?
Anthropologie Bead-Embellished Braided-Satin Headband, $, available at Anthropologie
I am really obsessed with rainbows and bright colours at the moment and I’ve been wanting this ring on my finger for MONTHS. Seeing as I’m not getting engaged any time soon, it would be rude not to treat myself.
Rosie Fortescue Jewellery Silver Emerald Cut Rainbow Ring, $, available at Rosie Fortescue Jewellery
Through fear of turning into my mother, I can finally admit that I love cardigans. I’m currently in the process of adding chunky, brightly coloured ones to my wardrobe, and this is at the top of my wish list.
Ganni Ribbed-Knit Cardigan, $, available at Net-A-Porter
Alicia Lansom, Editorial InternIf there were ever a time to dress like a shiny Christmas tree, this would be it. This tiered taffeta dress from Topshop is the perfect outfit for the party season as it can easily be accessorised for a bunch of different occasions. Its tent-like structure means you can drink as much fizz as you want and not worry about the booze bloat.
Topshop Green Taffeta Midi Dress, $, available at Topshop
I’ve been searching for a faux leather dress for what seems like forever but none on the high street has hit the mark – until now. This one from Zara might technically be a jacket but if I buy it oversized enough, no one should be able to tell. Fingers crossed I don’t need talcum powder and body lotion to squeeze out of it à la Ross from Friends.
Like most people, the idea of wearing a bold pattern seems scary, but this Ganni blouse might have just converted me. The sheer fabric means that the pattern appears somewhat muted, making it more understated (and more wearable) than most animal print items I’ve come across. Now all I have to do is find something similar in my price range.
Ganni Printed Organza Shirt, $, available at Ganni
Anna Jay, Art Director I love the line of this simple black cotton dress, prime for spring days with trainers or with tights and boots and a trench in winter. Oh and I’ll also wear it to the work Christmas party.
Zara Asymmetric Poplin Dress, $, available at Zara
The last bag I bought was £15 from Monki over two years ago, so I think it’s high time for a fresh replacement. The utility strap, the nylon fabric, the mint green and the price – can’t go wrong.
More puddle than party, these rain boots are adorable and I’d actually love to wear them with the Zara dress and Arket bag. This wish list is becoming more of a need list…
rag & bone Black Compass Rain Boots, $, available at SSENSE
Laurene Mpia, Associate Production ManagerAs per usual, I will purchase my Christmas outfits super last minute. So here is my wish list so far. I usually wear black (see next slides) so a little touch of colour, especially at Christmastime, is always welcome.
Tights are my best accessory for staying classy but festive, especially with a little bit of satin to have those shiny long legs like Naomi.
Wolford Satin De Luxe Tights, $, available at Net-A-Porter
Go mini or go home! That’s my motto this Christmas. I am showing my legs (in my satin tights of course) and opting for this gorgeous LBD from Solid & Striped.
Solid&Striped Ruffle Trim Shirred Mini Dress, $, available at Browns
Jazmin Kopotsha, Entertainment EditorI’ve always wanted to be one of those people who can pull off cute little ankle socks with a heeled court shoe and a mini dress. Dressing like a child as a grown up, if you will. This is my baby step towards that goal.
& Other Stories Honeycomb Glitter Socks, $, available at & Other Stories
I’ve been desperate for a longline leather coat and if Christmas isn’t the perfect time to be a little bit extra with a faux fur trim, then I don’t know when is.
Topshop Black Faux Fur Trimmed PU Coat, $, available at Topshop
My dream little bag goes with almost everything without having to try too hard. My dream little bag looks incidentally chic and understatedly trendy. My dream little bag is this Elleme little bag.
Elleme Green Madeleine Leather Mini Bag, $, available at Browns
Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
