25 holiday party outfits for every event on your calendar

In my world, it’s not the “holiday season.” It’s the “season of sequins.” It’s the perfect time to rock a disco-ball inspired look and personally, I will attend any event that gives me an excuse to do so. For a look that’s both elegant and totally show-stopping, I’m really into this wrap top jumper. Not only does it give total boss vibes, it also eliminates the stockings/no stockings conundrum those of us in the colder climates always face during the winter. (And there’s a coordinating sequin dress for minis, too!)

With its vintage vibes and eye-catching design, this piece from Buru is nothing short of obsession-worthy. And with that salmon and ruby color combo, you’ve already got your Valentine’s look locked in. (We love a dress that multitasks as hard as we do.)

If a wall of sequins is just too much, opt for this sleek number which uses them to create an Art Deco inspired pattern. We love the sophisticated silhouette which dips low in the back to wow them as you walk away.

Is there a look more holiday appropriate than red velvet? I think not. This elegant gown has a lot of details to adore–like a flattering sash waist and flowy feminine sleeves–but if we’re being honest, we love the pockets the most.

‘Tis the season for a cascade of tulle, as well. This ballet-inspired gown from Chelsea28 is an elegant showstopper not just because of the silhouette, but because look at that color! It’s not red. It’s not black. It’s “look at me” pink, worn only by those who, in the self-affirming words of Ke$ha, know “the party don’t start ’til I walk in.”

But it’s not just red velvet that feels holiday ready! This a-line dress features comes in a variety of colors that work just as well for a Thanksgiving outfit as it does for New Year’s. Start by pairing it with opaque stockings and knee high boots then upgrade to sparkle tights, mary janes and a statement necklace and you’ve got a look for every occassion!

Turns out you don’t have to spend a million bucks to look like it. This playful plaid stunner is a hot ticket at Old Navy this season and guess what? It has pockets.

The Nap Dress sensation isn’t going anywhere anytime soon, it seems. An easy style to dress up or down, it’s no wonder drops sell out in minutes. The classic brushed cotton styles are great, but for the party season we’re smitten with the flirty and feminine tulle version. With a couple of accessory swaps it can take you everywhere from your kids’ holiday concerts to a night out in the city!

Personally, I think it’s high time I had a holiday party appropriate powersuit in my closet. The velvet pieces from Boden are not only timeless, but also just as stylish mixed-and-matched. And while the semi-fitted blazer and trousers both come in black, we vote for opting leopard pants because, obviously.

For a more wallet-friendly monochromatic look, we love the comfortable but dramatic pairing of this flared bandeau top and slim, slit-hem pants from H&M. The best part is, you can easily mix and match them with other wardrobe staples throughout the season.

Even jeans and a tee shirt can pass for fancy when you throw this sparkly cropped blazer over top! It’s also a great piece to reinvigorate an old favorite you’ve already worn a hundred times.

Whether lace, mesh–or in this case, chiffon–sheer fabrics are absolutely crushing this season. We’re loving the ethereal overlay and panels at the waist on this romantic piece from J. Crew. And the sprinkle of sequins in just the right places? Nailed it.

Um, excuse me, Diana Prince is that you? I just cannot get enough of this Wonderwoman-worthy cocktail dress with its goddess-like drape and ultra-flattering cut. It’s flowy and fierce and the jewel neckline is so clutch for showing off shoulders while tucking away that weird little underarm flap. Amirite?

Dropping substantial coin on a once and done dress? Not in this economy. If you’re looking for a piece that will seriously last for years to come, make an investment in the RSVP Dress from Soldout.nyc. The Vogue-beloved piece is both chic and timeless with a cotton tank on top and a flowy poplin on the bottom which means it can easily be as dressy or relaxed as you want. It’s versatile and comfortable and even machine washable!

One thing the most stylish women I know have in common is their uncanny ability to mix textures. Not only does it give your look more dimension, it also makes it simple to punch up pieces you’ve long grown tired of. My current obsession for this very reason is the fluffy Feathered Cardigan Sweater from Anthropologie. Throw it over that slip dress you’ve had for a decade and you’re instantly HOT-TO-GO.

Chic but comfy, you can never go wrong with a sweater dress! Paired with tall boots, or even booties, it’s an effortless holiday outfit that works for so many occasions. This one from Old Navy gets high marks from reviewers who say they love it so much they’ve scooped it up in multiple colors.

Consider this versatile piece part of your holiday capsule wardrobe. Banana Republic Factory’s Square-Neck Velvet Bodysuit pairs with everything from pleated skirts to jeans depending on your social calendar.

Can we collectively retire ugly sweater parties? I do not have enough social events on my calendar to waste one looking not cute. That said, I do love a good sweater and this one from Anthro is top of the heap. Dueling rows of rhinestones make it feel a little fancier no matter what you pair it with.

Similarly, this sweet piece from English Factory is just a party in sweater form. The sweet rhinestone bow collar means you don’t even have to think about what jewelry to wear!

A long sleeve T-shirt, but make it party attire. The subtle puff shoulder and neatly gathered wrists give this otherwise simple top a little bit of flair. Pair it with jeans or cropped pants and some leather ankle boots and you’re ready to roll.

No matter what you have on your holiday calendar, a pair of insanely flattering wide-legged black pants can never be a bad idea. And as someone who has searched high and low, I feel confident telling you these are the ones. The aptly named Everywhere Pant from Banana Republic are sorcery in pant form. The ponte fabric is thick and forgiving while the silhouette manages to make even my short stems look a mile long. The fact you can wear them with everything from a vintage tee and sneakers to a sequin tank and heels? That’s just the icing on the cake.

Similarly, the Ballet Short Sleeve Turtleneck Bodysuit from Commando is a piece you can use a party as an excuse to splurge on and proceed to wear for all the occasions from here on out. It’s made from a super comfy and luxe microfiber which smoothes in all the right ways. (I mean what do you expect from shapewear superstars?) Personally I feel like it’s giving Rachel Green in the most timeless and understated way. Perfect.

With a divine texture and the most gorgeous jewel hue, this sophisticated top will come in handy long after the invites taper off. Wear it with your favorite jeans and you’re ready for any fête on your calendar!

Sleek and sassy, we’re loving this buttery soft off-the-shoulder top from Everlane. The generous foldover can be draped in a variety of ways depending on your personal style.

She’s relaxed. She’s confident. She’s got all the pockets she could ever want and doesn’t even need to bring a purse to this event.