The holidays are my favorite time to get dressed—not because I’m chasing trends or trying to be over the top, but because the season invites us to celebrate and a reason for getting dressed up! It’s the crisp air, the twinkling lights, the way everything feels just a little more magical. And with that, even the simple act of picking an outfit feels a little more meaningful.
I’ve always believed that what you wear sets the tone for how you feel. It’s not about impressing others but about stepping into the season with intention. Whether it’s a big family gathering, a quick dinner with friends, or just a night spent curled up at home with hot cocoa, having pieces in your wardrobe that feel effortless yet elevated can make all the difference.
This year, I’ve rounded up some of my favorite pieces that carry me through all the moments the holidays throw at us. Think sparkle, comfort, and versatility—because if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that the most authentic outfits make you feel your best. Let’s dive in.
Foundational Pieces That Work Overtime
Let’s start with the building blocks—pieces that serve as the backbone of your wardrobe. I always gravitate toward items that can mix and match effortlessly and create multiple looks with minimal effort.
First up, leather pants. If you’ve been hesitant to try them, let me tell you—hit checkout on that pair you’ve been eyeing in your cart! I can’t even explain how leather pants have somehow taken over as my holiday staple. They’ve officially outshined my jeans—and honestly, every time I’m scrambling to throw an outfit together, they just work. Every. Single. Time. They instantly elevate any outfit without feeling too fussy. Pair them with a festive blouse for a family brunch or throw on a cozy sweater and velvet flats for running errands in style. Leather pants are that perfect mix of edgy and classic, and they work equally well with casual and dressy pieces.
Then there’s the black shift dress. And I’m not kidding when I say that a little black dress truly have a million different ways that it can be styled. It’s the ultimate go-to for the holidays because it’s endlessly versatile. Heading to a dinner party? Add a pair of sparkly heels and silver earrings. Running late to a casual get-together? Layer it with a faux fur jacket and riding boots for a polished but approachable look. I love how a simple dress can act as a blank canvas, letting your accessories or outerwear take center stage.
Finally, you can’t go wrong with a classic plaid blouse. It’s festive without being over the top and pairs beautifully with leather pants or even just your favorite fitting denim. I just bought this and I’m excited to pair it with a comfy pair of pants on Thanksgiving day- great for just lounging around the house but also gives you that extra ‘oomph’ for seasonal vibes.
Elevated Essentials for Special Moments
The holidays are the perfect time to lean into pieces that feel a little more special. One of my absolute favorites is a sequined dress. Whether it’s for a cocktail party or New Year’s Eve, this piece makes an instant statement. I like to keep the rest of the look simple—maybe a sleek blazer draped over my shoulders and minimal jewelry—so the dress really shines. Bonus: It’s surprisingly versatile. You can even dress it down with a pair of black boots for an unexpected twist.
Speaking of boots, I’m obsessed with black riding boots this season. They’re equestrian chic at its best and so practical for winter weather. I love pairing them with dresses or layering them over skinny jeans. They add just enough edge to an outfit while still feeling timeless. Especially for my tall ladies that want to feel dressy but don’t want to commit to a heel… these are just as stunning but a million times more comfortable!!
And I have to mention my sparkly heels with the asymmetric bow—my go-to for adding a touch of glamour. These shoes are perfect for holiday gatherings but also work year-round. I’ve worn them with everything from jeans and a sweater to a satin skirt.
Accessories That Do the Heavy Lifting
Accessories are where you can really have fun and make your outfits feel festive. This brown Sezane purse, for example, is my current favorite on my wishlist. It’s a subtle way to add a pop of seasonal color without going overboard. I also love using accessories to tie my look together—think velvet flats for comfort and charm or silver earrings for a touch of elegance (I usually love mixing my gold and silver jewelry but this year I’m finding myself gravitating to only my silver pieces- they feel classier during the holidays!).
Clouz Houz tip: Let’s not forget the importance of staying warm without sacrificing style. This is possibly my greatest hack that I have to offer you in this post- Fleece-lined tights have been a lifesaver for me during the chilly months. What I think is so cool about these is that they are lined with a nude color, so they give the illusion of sheer tights but definitely don’t feel like it. They’re perfect for pairing with dresses or skirts when you don’t want to compromise on style. Couldn’t gate keep that one any longer… You’re welcome!!
Mixing Textures to Create Interest
One of my favorite ways to make holiday outfits feel thoughtful and elevated is by mixing textures. For example, pairing a cozy plaid blouse with sleek leather pants creates just the right amount of contrast. Or a crocodile printed bag with a faux fur jacket. The key is to stick to a cohesive color palette—like black, brown, or deep winter hues—so the textures don’t compete with each other. Mixing textures is my favorite part of putting together an outfit. Maybe that’s just the interior designer inside of me beaming with excitement but I believe doing something unexpected and visually interesting can elevate any look!
The Best-Dressed for Function and Comfort
At the heart of it, holiday dressing is about more than just looking good—it’s about feeling good, too. The holidays are busy, often chaotic, but filled with the little moments that make it all worth it. Your outfit should support you in fully embracing those moments, not distract you from them.
Whether it’s jeans you can truly relax in, layers that keep you cozy without overheating, or shoes that let you move effortlessly through the day, dressing for function and comfort is key. You want to be the best-dressed gal in the room! The right choices don’t just make you look polished; they help you stay present. And isn’t that the best gift of all?
As the holiday season unfolds, I hope you find yourself reaching for pieces that make you feel at ease and allow you to soak in every moment—whether it’s a bustling family dinner, a quiet cup of coffee in the morning light, or a joyful toast to the year ahead. Let your wardrobe work for you, so you can focus on what really matters. Cheers! 🥂
