Every December, invitations slide into your inbox with a mysterious phrase: “festive attire.” But what does it actually mean? Sequins? Velvet? Red? Green? A holiday sweater? The truth is far simpler. Festive Dressing Defined is about adding an intentional element – a detail, piece, or zhush that signals celebration without overpowering your personal style.
Think of festive dressing as elevated everyday style. You can use color, texture, shine, or silhouette to create visual interest while maintaining the sophistication, fabulousness, easiness, or minimalism you wear year-round. The goal is not to look like a holiday decoration; the goal is to look like you, elevated. If we can be honest, you are not the reason for the season, only a player in something larger and more life-changing. Show up to the party dressed for the occasion but not necessarily to be center-stage
This aligns beautifully with my post A Tale of Two Styles: Festive and Everyday, where thoughtful design choices produce maximum impact with minimal effort.
Festive Dressing Defined includes:
- Textures: Velvet, satin, brocade, lace, jacquard
- Shine: Sequins, beads, metallic threading, pearl detailing
- Color: Jewel tones, deep reds, emerald green, winter whites
- Silhouettes: Statement sleeves, wrap tops, flowing skirts
- Accessories: Sparkling earrings, pearl headbands, metallic bags
The secret is balance. If your top is the star, keep the bottoms clean (focus stays on the top). If your earrings are bold, let your neckline stay simple (keep the eye drawn to the earrings). If your blazer is velvet, ground the look with denim or tailored trousers (so we’re drawn in by the warmth of the velvet). Get it?!
A few places to start dressing festively:
Festive dressing is not about volume; it’s about intention. It’s choosing one element that feels special, beautiful, and uniquely you.
