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From sequins to velvet, sweater dresses to gowns, we found the most festive dresses to shop.
Normally, this is the time of year when I dig into the depths of my closet searching for the perfect outfits for what’s on my end of year social calendar. Only to find that A). I don’t own the correct items for the plan in my head or B). The items I do have are a bit snug (holding onto that college LBD isn’t doing me any favors) or have a rip/stain/tailoring issue. *Big sigh* But not this year: I’m starting early (AKA right now) and looking ahead from Thanksgiving to New Year’s at every party invite to make sure my wardrobe is set up for fashion success. And with my late November birthday also around the corner, that list of outfits is long.
From sweater dresses for Thanksgiving (my favorite holiday!), occasion-appropriate dresses for the office holiday party, and finally, sparkly gowns for NYE, I handpicked 36 dresses that fit every winter holiday occasion.
Sweater Dresses
A sweater dress is a closet staple that can take you from Thanksgiving Day (with plenty of room for a full belly of food) to Hanukkah candle lightings. With options starting at $35, this is also a great choice for festive wear on a budget.
Mini Dresses
A short hem makes a big impact. Go the trendy route with a sleek silhouette and a bubble hem or something a little more mindful and demure, like a blazer dress with satin lapels.
Slip Dresses
What started as a trend has evolved into a closet must-have. The humble slip dress can be paired with knee-high boots, chunky sweaters, and even leather sneakers, for an effortlessly cool-girl look that takes you from brunch to ballet.
Sequin Dresses
If you’re invited to a New Year’s Eve fete, then it’s time to pull out the big guns: Sequins. The sparkly frocks are synonymous with end of year parties, and who are we to deny how fun they are to wear. Pair with red lipstick and a glass of champagne (or non-alcoholic bubbly).
Velvet Dresses
Nothing screams winter holidays quite like a touch of velvet. The luxe fabric adds an elegance to even the most casual of soirees. Shift dresses to big bows, there’s a style for every aesthetic. The Anthropologie find is a top contender in my cart for my birthday or Christmas dinner.
Midi Dresses
Not too casual, not too formal; the midi length is the Goldilocks of dresses. Compliments from your mom at Thanksgiving and your date at a fancy dinner: shop for a dress that can do both.
Little Black Dresses
What starts out as simple, becomes exceptional thanks to seasonally-appropriate fabrics and details, such as satin or sheer sleeves. A LBD is the perfect canvas for accessories, too. Consider big hoop earrings, blingy bracelets, or a fun eyeshadow look to bring the glamour.
Cocktail Dresses
Everyone’s closet needs a cocktail dress for this time of year for those last minute invites to the Nutcracker or a dinner party that turned out more formal than you expected. A trendy pattern, like leopard, or a fun detail, like feather sleeves, turn these basics into statement-makers.
Black-Tie Gowns
A black-tie wedding or gala in December screams for bold details, such as lace insets, corsets with tulle, or bows. We found dresses that meet the mark. I wore the BCBG Max Azria dress to a formal wedding last fall and it was a hit.