Here are some outfit options for parties and dressier occasions that are not dresses. If you prefer separates because they can be more insulating, practical, versatile and easier to fit, these looks might inspire you.
Choose a colour palette that works for you and your style.
1. Festive Skirt
A magenta gathered flared skirt is combined with an eggplant off-the-shouder sweater. I like its glam and alluring, yet relaxed vibe. It’s partially tucked to shorten its length, which creates a bit of structure and a longer leg line from the hips upwards. Scrunched sleeves add to the easy integrity of the look. Tailored and high heeled eggplant booties match the sweater. The necklace and silver clutch add festive bling and sparkle. Gorgeous look.
More festive skirt options:
2. Holiday Sweater
Pairing a festive holiday sweater with jeans, or a pair of pants is an easy way to look festive in a very casual, cozy and comfy way. There are holiday patterns and slogans, fair isles, sparkly stars and stripes, metallics, beads and embroideries, ribbons, feathers, bows, and cabled solids. Add a pair of causal or smart casual shoes, and a belt if you like. Festive holiday sweatshirts can work too.
3. Pants Suit
I say this every season and it bears repeating. A dressy pants suit in a neutral or versatile non-neutral is a very handy item to have in your wardrobe. You can whip it out for dressy events with a comfortable pair of shoes and fancy bag. Add some bling and Bob’s your uncle. It’s easy, insulating, timeless and trendless.
A party pants suit is typically fab for those who enjoy wearing trousers and blazers. A velvet suit is lovely for Winter, and here are some festive examples.
4. Leather, Lace, Animal Print
Think of ways to combine leather or pleather, lace, and some form animal print to create a texture-rich outfit. Here, a pair of black leather jogger style pants is combined with a burgundy lace blouse. Dressy heeled animal print boots dress up the look. Add a dressier bag and some bling to complete the look.
5. Dressy Jumpsuits
A dressy jumpsuit can take the place of an all-in-one dress if you prefer wearing pants to skirts, and don’t mind “the loo fuss” of a jumpsuit. Dressy flats work just as well as dressy heels. A super fun ‘70s look.
6. Gilet
Pop a statement gilet over a simple column of colour and let it do the festive talking. In this example, a dressy black and gold brocade gilet tops a simple black sheath dress. It could have been dressy separates, or jeans and a slim-fit tee instead of a dress. Dressy gold shoes match the brocade. Add a bag and jewellery to complete the look.
