Shop The Kit is the personal shopper column that will solve your style dilemmas. Every month, Julianne Costigan, The Kit’s stylist-at-large and author of the shopping resource The Digital Style Guide answers your questions, giving you real solutions for building a functional, stylish wardrobe.
Festive party invitations are rolling in, and the search for great holiday outfits has spiked. Rich fabrics, brilliant shimmer and dramatic silhouettes are filling the stores — and this stylist’s cup. I love the joyfulness and opulence of the holidays, but I know there’s some pressure to putting together looks for the multitude of events and outings. Often, the most difficult part is gauging the dress code — and then finding pieces that aren’t a last-minute, one-time wear purchase.
The goal is to make your wardrobe work as hard as your calendar, with looks that effortlessly flow from intimate dinners to exuberant parties, while still feeling special and unique to you. This season’s trends — a fresh take on shimmer, cosy yet elevated knits and textures with depth and dimension — will get you there. It’s about striking the balance between festive and functional, with items that don’t just shine once but become part of your story for seasons to come.
Modern sparkle
Reimagine shine by looking for sequins in unexpected colour palettes and relaxed silhouettes. This is a statement that works well beyond the dance floor, but styling is key to maximizing the potential of these pieces. A shimmering dress transforms with a monochrome sweater and tall boots for daytime polish, while a sparkling button-up can be worn tucked into a satin skirt or velvet trousers — or dressed down with jeans and flats. Pair subtly embellished denim with a satin blouse or a simple tee for an effortlessly cool look. And add accessories like a sequin clutch in a bold hue to bring some fizz to any outfit.
Hearthside knits
Not all holiday events call for high glamour. Tree shopping, holiday markets and cosy family gatherings are special moments filled with photo opportunities, and call for comfort with just the right amount of elegance. Knitwear delivers every time.
Start with a versatile cardigan. Wear it buttoned up as a top, undone over a camisole, or reverse it for a chic twist with the buttons at the back. A knit dress or skirt is cosy yet polished — opt for a midi or maxi length and pair with kitten heels or sleek boots. For a festive touch that still feels relaxed, choose knits with special details, like a gem-embellished sweater with a knotted back.
Textured tidings
Materials that feel both luxurious and wearable bring softness and depth to holiday dressing. Velvet, satin and silk take centre stage: Pair a sumptuous velvet blazer or flowing silky slip skirt with your wardrobe basics like a simple button-up to create looks that are elegant now and versatile later.
Lace surged in popularity this year and is continuing to trend, bringing a soft, romantic touch to holiday style. A lace skirt, top or dress layered under an oversized blazer feels festive without overcommitting to occasion wear. Add yet more texture with accessories, like a luxe calf-hair belt that transforms a look from simple to special.
Bow tied
Bows continue to make an impactful statement this season, appearing as refined details on everything from chic outerwear to accessories. This trend moves beyond the classic hair ribbons we’ve grown to love, offering subtle touches of elegance that work seamlessly into both festive and everyday looks. Opt for pieces like topper jackets with understated ribbon accents — ideal for pairing with a satin skirt and sequin top for an evening event or adding a polished touch to jeans and a turtleneck for daytime outings. Accessories in soft hues like pink or champagne bring charm and sophistication to holiday dressing, and they’re wearable long after celebrations are over.
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