With the festive season fast approaching it’s time to start prepping our Christmas party outfits. From work parties to lunches with friends, our diaries are filling up fast so if you’re on the hunt for some spectacular Christmas party outfits, you’ve come to the right place.
There’s no such thing as OTT when it comes to December dressing. We’re talking sparkly sequins, rich velvet and glitzy accessories. Outfits that demand attention and will have you feeling and looking fabulous. A key part of our winter capsule wardrobe, a dazzling party outfit is not just reserved for Christmas. From cosy knits with slinky skirts to the classic LBD, these stylish and classic pieces can be dressed up or down with ease to ensure you get maximum mileage from your wardrobe year after year.
“In modern times, people aren’t looking for an outfit they’ll just wear once. It’s wasteful, expensive and not very environmentally friendly so when it comes to choosing your festive wardrobe, look for timeless pieces you can wear on repeat. Think a black dress, a sleek blazer and some sparkly accessories, pieces that work well together to create endless outfit opportunities,” explains woman&home fashion director Paula Moore.
Best Christmas party outfits 2024 - chosen by a fashion editor
1. LBD
Understated and timeless, the Little Black Dress has been a staple for years and for good reason. Endlessly versatile, this simple and elegant style works for any type of party and comes in many different silhouettes so you can always find one that works for you. Whether you opt for a figure-hugging shift dress or a flowy boho-inspired midi, every LBD is timeless and versatile in its own right.
“The LBD is a foolproof outfit formula that never fails to deliver. Just switch up the accessories to freshen it up each time and you’ll never tire of this lifelong sartorial investment,” says Paula.
RRP: £169 | We love this tuxedo dress for a feminine take on tailoring. The satin contrast colour adds a luxe touch and a flattering neckline. Easy to wear at work and the weekends, add sparkly accessories to render it party-ready.
RRP: £119 | Fancy by name and fancy by nature, these stunning silver heels are destined to be hitting that dancefloor. The crystal embellishment adds an extra glam touch whilst the buckle strap ensures they stay put.
RRP: £45 | The evening clutch is back and we’re going starry-eyed for this beauty. Roomy enough for all the essentials, it has a magnetic closure and there’s an added chain strap for that practical element too.
2. Red Dress
If you fancy swapping your LBD for something a little brighter, there’s no better colour this season than red. The festive shade is a real confidence booster and just as timeless as a black dress so you’ll get plenty of wear from it. From scarlet to crimson, once you’ve figured out what colour suits me, there are heaps of stunning designs to choose from. Look for ruffle details and chiffon fabrics to fully embrace that dancing emoji vibe or keep it pared-back in simple-cut satin number.
RRP: £97 | This fuss-free frock is timeless, chic and flattering. You really can't go wrong with festive red, and this will look exquisite teamed with gold jewellery and heels.
RRP: £119 | Is there anything more glamorous than a faux fur jacket? The perfect finishing touch to your party look, it’s crafted from a thick and cosy faux fur. It's available in tall and petite options, as well as a rich berry shade too.
RRP: £36 | Nail how to put together one-colour outfits and pair your fiery frock with some tonal heels. The 90s inspired design has a glittery buckle detail and a backless slip-on shape. Available in three chic hues.
3. Party Suit
Dresses aren’t your thing? Enter the party two-piece. A far cry from a stuffy suit you may find in the boardroom, feminine tailoring is now a key player in our capsule wardrobe. For the party season, look to vibrant hues, playful prints, and of course sequins aplenty to give it that party feel.
“A well-cut suit will be the hardest working piece in your wardrobe. When worn together, it looks instantly put-together but worn separately you can created endless outfit combinations,” says Paula.
Wear with silky cami tops, pussy-bow blouses and metallic accessories for a Saturday Night Fever look that will render you disco-ready.
RRP: £355 | Go bold in this festive blazer featuring a sequin embellishment and internal shoulder pads for an 80s twist. When not wearing the set, swap the trousers for the best barrel leg jeans for an effortless high-low look.
RRP: £235 | A slim-fit trouser with a flared hem, these feature a leg-lenthening seam detailing and a contrast satin waistband for added comfort. These look great with the matching blazer but equally can be paired with a cosy knit for dress-down days.
RRP: £75 | Layer this cami underneath your suit for extra coverage that leans into the party vibe. Cut from a super soft mulberry silk, it has a sheer v-neck panel and delicate straps that tie at the back. A brilliant basic with an uber luxe finish.
4. Jeans and a Nice Top
You don’t have to ditch your denim completely come party season and the classic combo of the best jeans for your body type and a nice top is ideal for Christmas party outfits, one you can count on for those daytime festive affairs. A great base for those smart casual outfit ideas, opt for dark wash jeans and avoid rips and distressed detailing if you want to keep it on the smart side and add pops of color with your top half and accessories to help elevate the look. Voluminous and asymmetric sleeves will give this a contemporary spin that helps balance proportions too.
RRP: £99 | Bring the drama with this puff sleeve top. The metallic fabric brings the disco vibe and the soft pink shade makes a fresh change from classic gold and silver. Wear with the best wide leg jeans in black or indigo.
RRP: £69 | We’re already obsessed with Nobody’s Child’s dress selection but their denim is worth a look-in too. The dark wash keeps these feeling polished and the cropped length allows you to show off some fancy footwear.
RRP: £110 | You can’t beat a slingback shoe for comfort and style and these are top of our Christmas wishlist. The signature bug embellishment and bronze finish adds charm and opulence whilst the kitten heel ensures you can be on your feet all night long.
5. Co-ord
The closest thing you’ll get to stepping out in your actual pyjamas, a floaty co-ord has comfort at its core. From feathered two-pieces to a cute short and shirt combo, this look is uber playful and fun. You can get plenty of mileage out of this one too as both the top and bottoms can be mixed and matched with your wardrobe essentials to create a plethora of different looks. This style is ideal for those who find they're different sizes on their top and bottom making dress shopping or buying a flattering jumpsuit tricky.
“A tailored co-ord can give the illusion of a jumpsuit but with the ease of a two-piece. Perfect if you’re petite like me and struggle to find a jumpsuit that fits,” says Paula.
RRP: £95 | Along with sequins, velvet and velour are key fabrics for party season. In a rich green hue this top declares loungewear-level comfort with extra polish and we couldn’t agree more. Add to basket immediately. Plus, we've got a fab leopard print scrunchie in our pick of Christmas gifts for friends that would complement this beautifully.
RRP: £150 | These high-waist trousers are flattering and comfortable making them a go-to on those nights where you want to dress up, without the effort. Wear with the best white trainers (or slippers!) You won’t want to take these off.
RRP: £329 | If you’re looking to dress up your co-ords, look no further than these knotted sandals. The block heel and leather lining ensures round-the-clock comfort whilst the metallic finish injects the festive feel.
6. Skirt and Knit
Not all festive parties require a statement dress so if you’re looking for Christmas party outfits with a more minimalist approach, this is the one for you. A silky slip skirt teamed with a cosy knit has that effortless French girl appeal that’s oh-so-chic. Look to the best cashmere jumpers for added luxe and finish with a pair of slip-on mules or boots. Cosy and elegant, this combo makes a stylish choice for a festive brunch or even your Christmas day outfit.
RRP: £89 | One of the best British clothing brands, M&S has pulled out all the stops with this blingy skirt. Featuring swishy tassels and sequin detailing on a stretchy slip style, it’s maximum impact with little effort.
RRP: £97 | Stay toasty in this mohair-wool blend knit. Available in six highly-wearable colours, we love this beige-pink shade for a soft feminine feel. The classic crew neck and relaxed fit makes it easy to layer.
RRP: £159 | The ultimate desk to dinner boot, you’ll get heaps of wear out of these beauties. They have ruched detailing and a plush suede finish. The zip fastening makes it easy to get them on and off.
7. Jumpsuit
The perfect dress alternative, the best jumpsuits have just as much impact but with a slightly cooler edge (and longer bathroom times!) Much like your go-to midi dresses, a jumpsuit provides a ready-made Christmas party outfit so minimal styling is needed, just throw on some heels and you’re dressed and out of the door in minutes. Mastering both the elegance of a dress with the practicality of trousers, look for jewel tones and metallic accents for that festive twist.
RRP: £35 | An all-in-one for any occasion, the sparkly lurex fabric adds a subtle yet effective disco touch. The wide leg is both flattering and comfy whilst the self-tie belt adds definition to the waist. Ticking all the boxes, get it or regret it.
RRP: £159 | A classic heel that will go with any evening look, prepare to get plenty of mileage out of these beauties. Elevating your look in an instant, they also come in black if you’re after something more lowkey.
RRP: £249 | Giving your outfit a rock’n’roll edge, this beaded bag featured a chunky chain strap and a zip closure to keep all your valuables safe. Available in black and silver, it’s a hardworking accessory that’ll go with all your party outfits.
8. Sequin Dress
When all else fails, donning a sequin dress is a no-brainer. Simple, yet effective a sequin dress is incredibly decadent but requires little effort. Thanks to its attention-grabbing aesthetic, you can just throw on and go as you'll want to keep accessories to avoid overwhelming your look.
“Party season is all about the glitz and glamour so why not lean into it and embrace the sparkly dress, there’s no better time! There’s many silhouettes to choose from and sequins provide a joyful distraction from any body parts you may be conscious of. Once more, all of these can be dressed down with a cosy knit so you can wear them well into 2025,” says Paula.
RRP: £69.99 | A simple 90s-inspired silhouette with stand-out sequins, Zara has nailed the party vibe with this frock. Wear on its own or layer a slim-fit roll neck underneath for extra coverage.
RRP: £200 | Every wardrobe needs a classic black blazer and this hits the mark. Guaranteed to never go out of style, this is crafted from a wool blend and features a double-breasted longline design. A stylish and useful layering tool.
RRP: £259 | John Lewis’ latest collab will add a designer spin to your wardrobe. Don’t be afraid to pile on the metallics. These knee-length boots have a modern square toe and a crinkle metallic finish for extra pizazz.
9. Leather Trousers
Just as versatile as your favourite jeans but with an extra rebellious edge, a pair of leather trousers is a sleek and fashion-forward choice for festive drinks or dinner. Opt for looser jogger-style silhouettes for a more relaxed fit that will avoid any Ross-from-Friends moments and tuck in your top to help highlight your waist. For an extra festive spin, try a metallic pair and finish with a Christmas jumper or an embellished sweater and glittery pumps.
RRP: £129 | We can’t get enough of the wide leg silhouette for all-round comfort and these are no exception. Crafted from buttery-soft leather, they are fully lined and feature a high waist for a flattering finish.
RRP: £130 | Not all Christmas jumpers are naff, case in point, this cute knit. Featuring just a sprinkling of sparkle in a punchy red hue, it’s subtle yet effective. Wear Christmas day and beyond.
RRP: £345 | These buckle flats are a firm favourite with the style set. Feminine with a tough edge, they have a slingback design, a pointed toe and statement buckle detail. Snap them up in one of 18 colours.
What to wear to a work Christmas party?
The work Christmas party dress code is a tricky one to master. Whilst you may have nailed what to wear to work, getting the balance of both office-appropriate and party-ready can be a challenge.
"For a work Christmas party, it’s all about striking that perfect balance between festive and professional. A chic cocktail dress or a sophisticated jumpsuit in rich jewel tones - like emerald or sapphire - can add a festive touch without going overboard. If you want to add a little flair, opt for statement accessories like bold earrings or a glittery clutch, and finish the look with a great pair of heels - just make sure they are something you feel comfortable in! The last thing you want to feel is uncomfortable at a work Christmas party, so go for tried and true styles that make you feel confident,” says Megan Watkins, Head Stylist at online fashion destination SilkFred.
Can I wear trousers to a Christmas party?
Many dress codes have relaxed in recent years, especially post-pandemic, so a pair of well-chosen trousers can be perfectly acceptable to wear to a Christmas party.
“Trousers are not only acceptable but can be a stylish and elegant option for a Christmas party. Opt for a tailored, wide-leg trouser in a luxurious fabric like velvet or satin for a festive twist. Pair it with a silk blouse, a statement blazer, or even a sequined top to keep things chic and polished. Trousers offer both comfort and sophistication, making them a fantastic choice for Christmas events!" says Megan.
Is it ok to wear jeans to a Christmas party?
Can jeans be business casual is a common conundrum and there are a few things to consider when trying to strike that balance. Much like a pair of smart trousers, jeans can also work for a Christmas party, when styled correctly.
“Go for a dark wash or black jeans for a more polished look, and pair them with an item that screams Christmas - like a sequin top, a velvet blazer, or a silky camisole. Adding dressier elements like statement jewellery or sparkly heels will help elevate the outfit, making jeans feel party-ready while still maintaining comfort and ease. Again, if you think that jeans will make you feel less comfortable or have the potential to make you feel too dressed down, simply go for a skirt, trousers or dress!" explains Megan.
Currently Group Fashion Director at Future Publishing, Paula Moore has been in the fashion industry for over 30 years. Overseeing the fashion pages for Woman and Home, Simply Woman and Home, Woman, Woman’s Own, Woman’s Weekly and Chat magazines.
