There’s a fine line to walk between getting dressed up enough to make it feel like a special event, whilst still ensuring that you can sit down to eat, move around and have a good time.
You don’t necessarily need to go for a glitzy dress. Adding a satin top, velvet jumpsuit or metallic shoes can help create a Christmasy feel. As long as the rest of your outfit is comfortable.
Here are 10 Christmas party outfits for women. Whether you’re heading to an office party, cocktail party or family gathering there’s something here for everyone. With some dressier options, some classic pieces and some comforting layers.
What Dressy but Wearable Really Means
Fabrics can play a big part in making outfits comfortable. Velvet, satin, crepe and quality sequins are great options to wear, however when considering comfort think about the seams, lining and added details on the garment.
Sit down, raise your arms and move around to make sure that your straps are secure, trousers aren’t tight around your waist and that any sequins/embellishments are not causing you any discomfort.
You don’t have to wear traditional Christmas colours. There are many festive shades that can be worn such as red, green, burgundy, silver and gold. However navy, ivory and pale pink can be great options if you choose the right texture or accessory.
Office Christmas Party Outfits
1. Wine Satin Shirt With Charcoal Trouser
Pin itPair with a wine satin shirt tucked into tailored black trousers and some metallic mules paired with a thick gold cuff.
The satin will have a party feel but not too formal. Tuck your shirt sleeves into your tailored black trousers once to create a more casual feel.
For more ways to style the colour, see our burgundy outfit ideas.
2. Sequin Camisole With a Chalk-Stripe Blazer
A sheer sequin camisole in silver can be layered under an oversized blazer with chalk stripes. Pair with black indigo jeans, pointed ankle boots and some delicate silver chains.
The loose blazer helps the sequined camisole appear more casual. The dark denim will keep you looking smart and the pointed boots will help give you a more dressed up look.
For more ways to combine denim and tailoring, explore our blazer and jeans outfits.
3. Green Tartan Trousers With a White Blouse
Wear straight leg green tartan trousers, white silk-like top, black patent loafers and red lips.
The tartan print will give you a Christmassy feel without having to go for any gimmicky patterns and accessories. The loose bow at the front of your top will give it a girly feel. Or leave the collar open for a more neat look.
The duller tartans are very easy to wear with simple accessories. For more shoe inspiration, read our guide on how to wear loafers.
Cocktail and Dinner Christmas Outfits
For a party at a restaurant or cocktail bar, you can lean into richer fabrics and more evening-focused shapes. Our fall date-night outfits have more ideas for dressing up when the occasion calls for it.
4. Red Velvet Jumpsuit
Pin itThis one piece includes everything you need to make a statement; a rich red velvet v neck jumpsuit, wide-legged, black pointed heels and gold hoop earrings.
The jumpsuit means you don’t have to match any extra pieces together. The velvet fabric is rich enough to look like something special in evening lighting. Look out for some stretch in the body of the jumpsuit and an easy to fasten clasp.
You can wear a belt to give your waist some shape. However, if the suit fits well you don’t need to.
5. Midnight-Blue Tuxedo Dress
opt for a midnight blue tailoring dress with satin collars, nipped in at the waist and wear with strappy silver sandals and a little satin clutch.
The tailoring will do most of the styling for you. The collars will add a touch of shimmer. If you’re heading to a colder event then go for some sheer tights and a long wool coat to give your outfit a little more practicality whilst keeping it sleek.
Our guide to types of dresses for women offers more inspiration for choosing a silhouette that works for you.
6. Ivory Halter Top With Chocolate Satin Trousers
Pin itA cream halter top, dark brown satin wide leg trousers, gold slingback heels and statement drop earrings. Wear your hair in a low ponytail.
This is a glamorous outfit without using sequins or a short skirt. The pale top will help balance the dark brown trousers. The satin will reflect light when you move around.
Make sure it fastens properly and you can sit down and move comfortably. For advice on choosing suitable underwear, see our guide to what bra to wear with a deep-neck or backless top.
Christmas Outfits for House Parties and Family Gatherings
7. Champagne Sequin Midi With a Chunky Grey Knit
Wear a shimmering champagne sequin midi skirt, teamed with a thick grey sweater, black lace up boots and a small crystal clutch.
This is a great outfit to wear if you're going to a house party but still want some sparkle. The sweater will help to soften the shimmer Whilst the strong boots will help you to move around easily instead of wearing dainty party heels.
Choose a smooth lined skirt to ensure that the sequins won't cause any issues with your tights or cause you irritation.
8. Pale Pink Boucle Jacket Over a Black Mini Dress
Pin itPair the pale pink boucle jumper with a black crepe mini skirt, black sheer tights, block heels and Mary Janes. Finally add a pearl hair pin.
The textured jumper will add extra softness to your basic black outfit. The tights will help with comfort in the cooler weather. The block heels would be a great choice if you are going to be on your feet, greeting guests or walking around.
Try to keep your accessories simple. You don’t want them to clash with the boucle and pearls.
9. Chocolate Faux-Fur Jacket With a Green Knit Dress
This stylish but comfortable combination of a deep green knit midi and chocolate faux fur jacket will keep you warm during a family get together that lasts into the evening. Pair with some high boots and leather gloves.
This will give your look some Christmas flair whilst keeping you comfortable. Pick a length that will allow you to sit comfortably, especially if there will be a long meal involved.
If the venue is warm you can take the jacket off.
10. Black on Black With One Sparkle
Black turtleneck and wide leg trousers. Add in some silver sparkly block heels and crystal drop earrings.
If you want a more muted look instead of a bright festive outfit then this would be perfect. There's only two areas of sparkle and the black detailing keeps it simple and sleek.
Tuck your trousers in nicely around your shoes and team with a coat that will work well with wide legs.
The Takeaway
Keep it simple with a touch of ‘festive’. Maybe a sparkly item such as velveteen jumpsuit or sequin skirt, a satin dress or just glitzy heels with your go to black trousers.
Make sure that whatever you choose is appropriate for the occassion but will allow you to have some ease of movement. You are certainly going to have more fun at the party if you aren’t constantly adjusting your outfit!
