14 Must-Try Holiday Outfit Ideas That Are Stylist-Approved

Holiday gatherings with family and friends are often filled with joy, but with so many events to attend, putting together the perfect outfits can become overwhelming. What you wear to your best friend’s party might not suit your office celebration or a family dinner with your grandparents. So, where should you turn for inspiration?

Choose Something Red

Red is a timeless pick for the holiday season. Celebrity stylist Mickey Freeman shared with InStyle that selecting classic pieces, such as a red knit top paired with a pencil skirt or a mid-length red dress featuring unique textures or decorative details, can truly elevate your look. He also suggested other trendy holiday options, including a bold red sequin suit, a vintage-inspired wine-red velvet bodycon dress, and a laid-back red plaid shirt dress that can be styled with or without a belt.

Break Out a Bracket

Even if it's chilly where you are, celebrity fashion stylist and Bare Necessities partner Kate Young recommends embracing the underwear-as-outerwear trend by wearing a bra top for your holiday events. "I love the look of a bra paired with a blazer and jeans for a casual, sexy vibe, or under a suit to add a surprising twist to the outfit," Young shared with InStyle.

Feel Fancy in Faux Fur

For holiday outfits, Tobi head stylist Joanna Angeles associates the season with faux fur. "Try a knee-length coat with faux fur accents, layered over a fitted long-sleeve turtleneck, a leather mini skirt or shorts, sheer tights, and knee-high heeled boots," she suggested. "Adding metallic accessories like a clutch or headband will bring in that extra touch of sparkle." The combination will give you a look that's both stylish and luxurious.

Shine Bright in Sequins

"Sequins are the ultimate festive statement," said celebrity stylist Tiffany Briseno. Instead of opting for the traditional party dress, she recommends a more contemporary approach. "Go for a matte sequin suit paired with 1970s-style platform sandals for a fun yet elegant look. To make it even more unexpected, try it in a neutral shade like brown or camel," she suggested.

Don't Forget About Jewelry

Celebrity stylist and Pandora Jewelry partner Erin Walsh advocates for being "incidentally fabulous," which she describes as "looking amazing, sparkly, interesting, and powerful, while seeming totally effortless." To achieve this, Walsh recommends layering fine, sparkling accents like pendant necklaces and stacking delicate earrings along the ear.

"The key is to find a collection you love that works for both everyday and holiday occasions, and that’s when you can truly step into your power," she added. "Whether it's at a party, a meeting, dinner, or even at home."

Wear Wide-Leg Trousers

Seeking both comfort and style for your holiday outfit? Opt for a pair of wide-leg trousers. "You want to look polished from your arrival to after the pumpkin pie, and the high-waisted wide-leg trouser is flattering on all body types, plus it's comfortable and ideal for a dinner party," Briseno explained. "Pair it with a romantic sleeve top and bold earrings in your favorite holiday jewel tones for the perfect look."

Swap Dress Pants for Cargo Styles

Cargo pants are having a moment, and this trend is here to stay. "Most people think of cargo pants as casual wear," said stylist Naina Singla. "But did you know you can elevate them by choosing a different fabric?" The refined cargo pant is one of her favorite—though unexpected—choices for holiday outfits. "To dress up cargo pants, try satin or leather versions," Singla shared with InStyle. "You can pair them with a simple cashmere sweater for a chic yet comfortable look, or go for a sequin cami or blazer to create a more dressed-up, festive holiday ensemble."

Add Leather for Texture

While sequins and pearls are popular choices for the holiday season, celebrity stylist Sonia Young recommends faux leather as a stylish alternative. "There are so many great options in leather pants—faux leather, patent leather—that can seamlessly transition from day to night, making them an ideal holiday wardrobe staple," Young explained. One of her top picks? Commando Patent Leather Leggings. "You can wear them to the office with an oversized sweater and loafers, then easily dress them up for a dinner date with a blazer and heels."

Elevate Your Loungewear

If you’re aiming for comfort this holiday season, you can still elevate your loungewear, like pairing your favorite pajamas with heels. "What's better than enjoying a glass of wine in the comfort of your PJs?" Young asked. She’s a big fan of brands like Olivia Von Halle, Sleeper, and Morgan Lane. While red, white, and green are classic holiday colors, JLUXLABEL co-founder Teresa Jaide recommends trying something different. "We love reaching for rich emerald green or ruby red velvets every year, but this time, we're adding our new favorite color for a touch of intensity and elegance: midnight blue."

Slip on a Slip Dress

Rebecca Clarke, head of design at Nasty Gal, considers the slip dress a must-have wardrobe piece. For the holidays, she’s particularly drawn to slip dresses with ruched sides, paying homage to the late '90s/Y2K style. "It's where streetwear details meet glamour for the holidays," she explained.

Suit Up

Three-piece suits have been gaining popularity, so it’s no wonder Singla recommends one—especially in white or ivory—as a holiday look. "A lightweight wool suit with a blazer, vest, and trousers creates a look that’s intentionally polished and elegant," she shared.

Make It Metallic

Style expert and Amazon Live host Katie Sands shared her love for metallics during the holiday season—and this year is no different. "I’ve been spotting a lot of metallic suit sets, and I love how they combine the power suit vibe with a festive twist," she explained. "Pair them with any nude or black boots you have, or even a cute kitten heel and a bralette."

Consider a Blazer Dress

Celebrity stylist and fashion consultant Amanda Sanders believes blazer dresses are perfect for transitioning from the office to a holiday party. "I’d pair it with suede over-the-knee boots, silver drop earrings, a statement ring, and complete the look with a moto jacket and a suede bucket bag with silver hardware," she shared. "These pieces are excellent winter staples that will remain stylish for seasons to come."

Opt for Emerald

If red isn’t your go-to color or you don’t have many red pieces in your wardrobe, personal stylist Allie McKenna suggests another holiday favorite: emerald green. "Red is always a classic choice but can feel a bit predictable," she explained. "Green, however, is festive and refreshing."