Party invites are slowly piling up/digitally notifying us, which can only mean one thing: holiday season is officially upon us. With evenings and weekends in December slowly being pencilled into your iCal, we don’t doubt things are getting a little overwhelming in the wardrobe department. Between the office parties and the family gatherings, the apparel creative juices are sure to run low by the third, fourth, fifth party. So to save you the trouble, we’re taking the guesswork out of your holiday party dressing sand showing you how to up the ante this season. From opulent velvet and brocade dresses to not-your-ordinary-LBDs, we’ve found fail-proof styles for any party thrown at you this season. Consider one less thing to worry about this holiday.
1. In-Office Work Party
It can be tricky to find a dress that can double as office-appropriate and party-ready. Choose a tailored style with a holiday-inspired print in a seasonal colour to get the best of both worlds.
Anthropologie Shelby Sheath Dress, $178
2. Corporate Christmas Ball
Stand out amongst your colleagues in this romantic style (lace and all). With its floor-length skirt and elegant slit, this gown would no doubt get turning.
Self-Portrait Guipure Lace and Georgette Gown, $660
3. Potluck With Friends
Velvet never fails to be the preferred material for the holidays, thanks to its rich texture. Select a no-fuss, sleeveless option that will give you the option to layer over with a jacket when you’re feeling chilly.
Aritzia Poncet Dress, $225
4. Family Gathering
When celebrating the holidays with your family, a form-fitting, skin-baring dress is best saved for a night out with friends. For a family-friendly look, pick a long-sleeved dress in a fun, starry print for a festive feel.
Reformation Portia Dress, $198
5. Significant Other’s Family Gathering
See above reason. But for his/her family, why not opt for a red lace dress featuring a collar detail for a semi-conservative, but overall sweet look.
Carven Red Lace Collared Dress, $935
6. Your Own Party
Hosting your own Christmas party can be hectic. To allow ample amount of movement, while help you stand out in the room, a non-constricting and flowy style is the dress for you.
Zara Tulle Dress, $60
7. Fancy Restaurant Dinner
An LBD is a perennial favourite for any event. This season, update your basic black dress with an off-the-shoulder one for an on-trend, elegant look.
Stella McCartney Reily Cutaway Embellished Wool-Blend Crepe Midi Dress, $5,275
8. A Night Out
A night out in town with friends isn’t complete without a bedazzling mini dress that screams part festive-part sexy.
Saint Laurent Draped Sequined Silk-Georgette Dress, , $7,128
9. New Year’s Eve Count Down
Whether you’re counting down at a house party or outside at Harbourfront, a long-sleeved metallic dress will be the smart, chic option.
Topshop Livonia Dress by Unique, $456
10. Christmas Brunch
You know Christmas brunches are not going to be like your regular Sunday brunches (read: food extravaganza). But no need to take out the sweatpants just yet – a knit sweater dress in a floral pattern will do just fine.
Valentino Knit Floral Sweater Dress, $3,490