Dressing up a pair of jeans for the holidays or for an occasion is quite popular with my clients, although non-denim items like dresses, skirts, trousers, and suits are more popular. The great part about this type of outfit is the ease, casual factor, and comfort level when you enjoy wearing jeans. It won’t break the bank when the items are in your closet already.
The most important components are the dressier top, and the optional topper. This collection shows some examples.
On to the components of the outfit. Choose any colour palette.
Jeans + Festive Top + Dressy Topper + Dressy Shoes + Dressy Bag + Bling
Jeans: They can be dressier or more casual. Dark uniform washes without rips and tears are the dressiest type of blue jeans. Trouser jeans are great too. Black jeans or coated jeans are another way to go. Choose them in a silhouette that works for you.
Festive Top: Choose a blouse, sweater, or knitted top depending on how cold or warm you need to dress. Keep it DRESSY if you are not going to layer it under a dressy jacket. If the topper is the dressy part, you can wear a basic top underneath it, or even a tee.
Dressy Topper (OPTIONAL): If the top is dressy and insulating and you’re not into wearing jackets, leave off this layer. If the jacket is the star of the show, wear something simple underneath to let it shine. Or double up and wear a dressy top with a dressy jacket.
Layering a sparkly cardigan over a sleeveless blouse is an option if you find jackets restrictive.
Dressy Shoes: Complete the outfit with dressy shoes that can be any type of heel, boot, or flat. Metallic and patent are favourites. It sounds counter-intuitive but I’ve seen sequined sneakers and metallic cowboy boots work well with the vibe too. Add socks and knee-highs for warmth. Wear festive socks if they make a visual statement in the outfit.
Dressy Bag: Choose any type of fancy small bag to match the outfit. Shoulder, crossbody, satchel, bucket, clutch, clutch with a strap, belt bag, or wristlet.
Bling: Keep the extras subtle or pile on the bling. Think sparkly hair accessories, brooches, belts, shimmery make-up and nail art too. All good.
Here’s a gorgeous example of the outfit formula in neutrals. Dark and cropped relaxed straight jeans are combined with a simple black pullover. A sparkly tan jacket that tops it is the dressier part. Black embellished pumps match the black of the top and bookend the model’s hair. I see a small black, red or gold bag. Gold earrings and red lipstick are the festive finishing touch.
