Holiday Attire: What to Wear to a Christmas or Holiday Party

The holiday season is the perfect time to pull out your festive best, whether you’re heading to an office Christmas party or a cozy family gathering. From glittering cocktail dresses to sharp, stylish suits, holiday parties offer a chance to have fun with your wardrobe while embracing the festive spirit. But with so many options, it can be tricky to know what to wear to make sure you look both stylish and seasonally appropriate. But don’t worry – we’ve got all the holiday attire inspiration you need to help you shine at any celebration.

Men’s Holiday or Christmas Party Outfit Ideas

When it comes to holiday parties, men have plenty of options to choose from, depending on the event. Whether you're attending a formal, semi-formal, or casual gathering, there are festive details for every occasion. From sharp suits to cozy sweaters, we’ve got the festive looks that will help you ring in the season in style – without breaking a sweat.

Formal Christmas and holiday party outfits for men

For a formal or black-tie holiday bash, you can’t go wrong with a classic tuxedo. Black or navy men’s tuxedos are timeless choices when paired with a crisp white dress shirt and a sleek bow tie. Feeling adventurous? Opt for a velvet blazer or jacket in a rich tone like burgundy or midnight blue to add personality and texture to your tuxedo style. Accessories make the difference here—polished patent leather shoes, refined cufflinks, and festive socks bring just the right amount of seasonal flair. For a cohesive, sophisticated look, keep your color palette understated with deeper hues like maroon or forest green. And remember, fit is everything; a well-fitted tuxedo ensures you look as sharp as the occasion demands. Use our Fit Finder to guarantee your tuxedo fits like a dream.

Semi-formal holiday outfits for men

Semi-formal holiday parties strike the perfect balance between comfort and style. For gatherings like a holiday dinner or cocktail hour, smart-casual looks are your go-to. Think chinos in neutral tones paired with a dress shirt and a textured blazer for something effortless. If you're in the mood for something cozier, try a subtly patterned sweater in seasonal shades like forest green, burgundy, or navy. Footwear matters, too—loafers or derby shoes are polished enough without being overly formal. Want to elevate your look without overcomplicating it? Explore different types of suits by incorporating a versatile suit jacket in fabrics like tweed or flannel to keep things sharp. Minimal accessories work best here, letting your outfit’s subtle details do the talking.

Business holiday party outfits for men

When it comes to company holiday parties, blending professionalism with festive cheer is key. Start by enhancing your everyday men’s suits with a holiday-themed necktie or a sleek pocket square in a seasonal print or color. If the vibe leans more casual, swap your traditional dress shirt for a playful Christmas sweater—just make sure it’s tasteful! Layer it under a blazer to maintain that business-meets-festive balance, and pair it with tailored slacks. Whether your office party calls for something subtle or a little more spirited, this approach keeps your look professional yet celebratory, perfect for impressing coworkers and clients alike.

Casual Christmas outfits for men

If you’re headed to a laid-back holiday party with friends or family, the outfit options are more relaxed. Pair dark denim or casual trousers with a holiday sweater or a button-down shirt in plaid or festive colors. Sneakers or casual boots will keep it comfortable while still looking seasonal. Just because it’s casual doesn’t mean you can’t add a little holiday spirit! Consider accessories like a cozy scarf in a holiday print, a festive beanie, or even socks with a fun Christmas pattern. Layering can also add style and warmth, so try throwing on a neutral cardigan or a lightweight jacket over your ensemble.

Women’s Holiday or Christmas Party Outfit Ideas

Holiday parties give women a chance to dazzle with a wide range of outfit options, from glamorous gowns to comfy, festive looks. The key to nailing your ensemble is tailoring it to the formality of the event while sprinkling in holiday magic. Whether it’s a black-tie gala or a casual Christmas gathering with friends, here’s how to dress the part, and turn heads while you’re at it.

Formal Christmas and holiday party outfits for women

Formal or black-tie holiday events are all about elegance and making a lasting impression. Floor-length evening gowns in rich holiday hues like red, green, gold, or silver are always a show-stopper, adding a festive and glamorous touch to your look. These timeless colors bring warmth and sophistication to any celebration. 

For something sleek and unexpected, try a tailored women’s tuxedo or suit. Complete your festive attire with sparkling jewelry, a chic clutch, and heels that tie the look together. And don’t forget outerwear for those chilly winter nights—opt for a luxe velvet blazer or a fur wrap to stay warm without sacrificing style. Whether you choose a gown or tuxedo, make sure your look is polished from head to toe, ready to dazzle the crowd.

Semi-formal holiday outfits for women

Semi-formal holiday gatherings, like dinners or upscale parties, call for cocktail attire that’s both stylish and festive. Think cocktail dresses in bold holiday colors, or play with separates that make a statement. Consider metallic shades, textures, or finishes for your style to play up the holiday shine. A stylish sweater paired with a pleated skirt can create a chic yet comfortable look, or try a sleek women’s suit for something more structured and fashion-forward. Accessorize with festive earrings or a statement necklace, and don’t forget the ankle boots or heels to elevate your outfit. A tailored blazer or an elegant shawl can provide a polished finish, making you look sophisticated while still feeling relaxed and celebratory. It’s all about finding the perfect balance between chic and fun when dressing for a semi-formal holiday event.

Business holiday party outfits for women

For a business holiday party, you can transform your usual workwear into a festive yet professional outfit. Start with your typical business casual or business professional attire, then add holiday-inspired accents. Pair your slacks or pencil skirt with a Christmas sweater layered under a sleek blazer, or add jewelry with subtle festive details, like a delicate snowflake pendant or red gemstone earrings. A structured handbag or a glittering clutch can bring in a touch of sparkle without being over the top. Stylish slacks or a pencil skirt will keep things office-appropriate, while festive accessories like a red scarf or sparkling jewelry infuse the holiday spirit into your outfit. It’s a perfect way to merge your professional side with a dash of seasonal cheer.

Casual Christmas outfits for women

Casual holiday parties are a perfect opportunity to combine cozy-chic outfits with a touch of festive fun. A knit dress in a holiday-inspired color or a festive graphic sweater is a comfortable yet stylish option. Pair with stylish jeans or leggings for an easy, put-together look. Comfortable footwear like flats, sneakers, or boots keeps things relaxed, while accessories like a Santa hat, a sparkling holiday brooch, or a scarf in plaid or other festive patterns add a playful touch to your outfit. The key is to embrace comfort while still incorporating a bit of holiday cheer, ensuring you look festive without sacrificing relaxation.

Holiday Party Attire FAQs

Adding Spice and Festive Spirit Into Your Holiday Party Outfit

Holiday parties are the perfect excuse to show off your style while embracing the festive season. Whether you're dressing in vibrant jewel tones, accessorizing with playful details, or layering for warmth in classic holiday colors, your outfit should strike a balance between seasonal fun and event-appropriate style.

SuitShop is here to help you look your best for every celebration. From made-to-order suits that are tailored to your preferences to versatile options that can transition seamlessly from fall wedding guest attire to festive gatherings, SuitShop has everything you need to stand out. Explore our collection today and find your perfect holiday look.