Welcome to Addressed, a weekly column all about getting dressed. We cover everything from animal prints and runway styling tricks to building the perfect winter shoe collection.
As the year winds down, we’re shifting into holiday mode—time for family, gifts, and of course, parties! Dressing for the holidays is one of life’s great style joys; it’s the perfect moment to go all out and embrace your most luxurious main-character dreams.
Here at Addressed, we’re all about Method Dressing for the holidays. Why not, when there’s nothing quite as fabulous as wearing red from head to toe? The rest of the year, it’s hard to find the right occasion for it. A sharp red suit or a red dress—extra points for velvet—is perfect whether you’re heading to an office cocktail event or just dinner at your grandmother’s.
If you want to lean even further into the festive spirit, try pairing red with green, gold, or purple. And if you’re feeling especially merry, classic tartan is always a winner. A full plaid skirt paired with a cozy sweater is just the thing for celebrating in style.
Matching his-and-hers tailored looks are a holiday party essential.
Sergio Hudson, resort 2026
Photo: Courtesy of Sergio Hudson
This season calls for sparkle, tinsel, and all things shiny. Sequins are always holiday-appropriate—whether as a matching set or a little jacket thrown over jeans and boots (years ago, I snagged a black sequin piece from Theory that makes a comeback every December). It’s also a great time to play with texture: think lace, faux feathers, fringe, ruffles, and all kinds of bold fabric details.
If head-to-toe holiday tones aren’t your thing, remember that any rich jewel tone works this time of year. Opulent aquamarine! Turquoise! Chartreuse! Mustard! Magenta! If it looks like it belongs on a string of Christmas lights, it belongs in your wardrobe.
Go bold with accessories—like lace tights and bedazzled velvet shoes.
Valentino, resort 2026
Photo: Courtesy of Valentino
Silk ribbons tied at the ankle.
Valentino, resort 2026
Photo: Courtesy of Valentino
A metallic leather crown makes a perfect holiday accessory.
Coach, resort 2026
Photo: Courtesy of Coach
As does a candy cane clutch.
Gucci, resort 2026
Photo: Courtesy of Gucci
And if you’re thinking, “But I’m a minimalist,” take inspiration from Rachel Comey’s hunter green look—striking in its shape but free of extra fuss. You can still show a playful side with accessories like lace tights, platform velvet shoes, or thick taffeta ribbon details. (Why not take a cue from those Valentino flats and wrap some ribbon around your ankle?)
The holidays are about celebrating with loved ones and enjoying some well-deserved time for yourself. So experiment, have fun, and spread some cheer!
And if your idea of a holiday party is staying in for a Metropolitan/Die Hard double feature, that’s still no excuse to skip dressing up: a pair of bright lingerie tap shorts can make anything feel festive.
Saint Laurent, resort 2026
Photo: Courtesy of Saint Laurent
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQs Decoding Holiday Outfits
Basics Definitions
What does decoding holiday outfits even mean
It means understanding the unspoken rules dress codes and style expectations for different holiday events and destinations so you can dress appropriately and confidently
Why is it so hard to know what to wear for holiday parties
Because invitations often use vague terms like festive attire or holiday casual which can mean very different things depending on the host location and type of party
Whats the difference between Festive Attire and Black Tie Optional
Festive Attire Encourages sparkle bold colors velvet and fun accessories Its dressy but not necessarily formal
Black Tie Optional A formal event where a full tuxedo or floorlength gown is standard but a dark suit or a elegant cocktail dress is an acceptable optional choice
Common Problems Solutions
Im going to a Holiday Casual family dinner What should I avoid
Avoid sweats ripped jeans or overly casual gym wear Think nice jeans or trousers with a festive sweater or blouse or a simple dress with tights and boots
How can I look festive without buying a brandnew outfit
Accessorize Add a sparkly statement necklace a velvet hair bow metallic shoes or a bold lipstick to a simple black dress or neutral outfit you already own
Im traveling to a cold destination for the holidays How do I stay warm and stylish
Layers are key Wear thermal underlayers choose a stylish coat as your centerpiece and opt for fabrics like wool cashmere and faux fur Dont forget a great hat scarf and boots
Whats the biggest mistake people make with holiday outfits
Being uncomfortablewhether in shoes that hurt an outfit thats too tight after a big meal or clothes that arent suitable for the weather or activity Comfort and confidence are part of the style
Practical Tips Examples
Can I wear black to a holiday party
Absolutely Black is always chic Make it holidayappropriate by pairing it with metallic accessories velvet textures or a pop of a festive color like emerald green or ruby red