I’m a Fashion Editor, and These Are 15 Festive Outfits I’m Packing for Holiday Parties — From $8

Somehow, some way, we’ve arrived at the end of the year. Like many of you, I’m consumed with pressing deadlines and the final slog before taking a bit of time off. But, also like many of you, I’m bursting with anticipation for the festivities ahead. Between the outfits, delicious treats, and cozy decorations, for me, there’s nothing quite like planning for holiday get-togethers. But, when hitting the party circuit also means hitting the road, some hard sartorial choices can come into play.

As a fashion editor with over 18 years of experience (another thing that seems slightly unbelievable), I’ve sharpened my holiday packing list down to the essentials, while making room for unexpected pieces that can work in a range of settings and circumstances. Ahead, check out my fashion editor-approved packing guide that can easily be tweaked depending on your destination and personal style.

Satin-effect Midi Skirt

I’ve said it once and I’ll say it again: Simple slip skirts can be such a wardrobe (or suitcase) staple. This time of year, I find myself reaching for items that are deceptively dressed up, meaning they punch above their style weight. I’ll be wearing a skirt like this Zara number with a chunky crewneck sweater and slouchy boots for an understated look that’s perfect for low-key dinners with friends and family.

Oversized Button-down

A little confession: I own upwards of eight white button-downs. The reason? They’re so versatile and, depending on their fabric and fit, can express such different tones in your look. For me, however, the most reliable choice (and therefore the choice that’s tossed into my luggage) is a somewhat oversized version that I like to wear with velvet pants and Chelsea boots for a low-key retro look. Alternatively, I’ll spruce it up and wear it layered over a turtleneck, per Queen Diane Keaton, and pair it with wool trousers and loafers, ideal for visiting a local holiday market.

Party Pants

Once upon a time, I would squeeze myself into the tightest, tiniest dress all in the name of New Year’s Eve. Those days, thankfully, are long gone. Now, I’m firmly planted in the camp of party pants, namely trousers that could double as pajamas if it weren’t for the embellishments. Pants like this do most of the outfit’s work, meaning a classic button-down, T-shirt, or sweater is more than sufficient to complete the look. 

Bold Tights

It might surprise you, but I’m a huge proponent of shopping your closet — and conducting seasonal clothing purges (to make room for new purchases, duh). Anyway, one simple way to invigorate your go-to party dresses is simply by donning a bold pair of tights — in either color or pattern. As red continues to be one of the top colors of the season, consider putting on a pair of these with a shift dress or A-line skirt for an unexpected pop of color.

Festive Shift Dress

Without fail, my love for sixties fashion always emerges this time of year. No matter the event, I’ll inevitably end up dressing like Betty Draper going to a holiday party. Shift dresses are the ideal holiday party frock unless you’re attending a black tie event, in which case you’ll need a little more flourish. 

There’s something so covertly easy about shift dresses that I feel like I’m getting away with something when I wear them. I tend to prefer sleeveless versions constructed out of sparkly brocades or satins — leaving the sequins for my party pants. Alternatively, bell sleeves can introduce a fun play on movement and proportions. If you’re taking this approach, opt for more subtle necklines and fabrics to avoid looking like you’re wearing a costume. Finish the outfit with thick tights and pointed ballet flats or sleek sling-back kitten heels.

Pajama Set

For me, the holidays always call for a fresh pajama set. Between lazy mornings guzzling my weight in coffee and slipping out to the porch to grab a package, pajama sets just make sense this time of year — and they can help put you in the holiday spirit before your feet even hit the floor.

Statement Jacket

Packing for the holidays often means wrestling with your baggage and squeezing just one more item into it before you break the zipper. That’s why I love a statement jacket. As with the party pants, these jackets can carry an outfit, looking just as good with jeans as they do over a slip dress, meaning you can probably pack less for your holiday ensembles. Juxtaposing a statement jacket with a vintage T-shirt, relaxed denim, athletic socks, and loafers or low-profile sneakers works well for a shopping day — or a cocktail after you’ve braved the crowds.

Barrel Jeans

While not strictly reserved for the holidays, barrel jeans belong in just about everyone’s closet. This denim features a simple tweak to the classic straight-leg silhouette, immediately elevating it. These can be worn with just about every shoe in your closet, including ankle boots, heels, and ballet flats. I love wearing these with a shrunken Henley, Adidas Sambas, and socks in perky colors. With holiday sales on the horizon, now’s an optimal time to add upmarket denim to your wardrobe.

Unique Loafers

While I will forever carry a torch for chunky sole loafers, I’m increasingly drawn to styles that don’t look like everything else. Enter the loafer pump. Perfect for being paired with a shift dress, jumpsuit, or anything else, the patent leather injects a celebratory appeal, making it ideal for any festive occasion.

Long Coat

‘Tis the season to dress inappropriately for the weather. With a long wool coat, you’re bound to keep the frostbite at bay — at least while you wait for your Uber. While coats like this Rag & Bone one can err on the pricier side, I like to consider an item like this an investment: a piece that won’t need to be replaced for many years to come. However, if you’re looking to accomplish a similar look for a lower price tag, try either one of these from Abercrombie or H&M.

Versatile Bag

With limited suitcase space, it’s key to bring a bag that can be worn to everything from a dive bar to your grandparent’s house. This winter, I’m loving these slouchy shoulder bags that give off a can’t-be-bothered coolness. Even better: it’s big enough to hold more than your phone, unlike some popular styles from previous seasons that had minimal space.

Classic Cardigan

For a day full of travel, I swear by stowing a cardigan in my carry-on. With the endless outfit options you can create with a cardigan, it’s a clear travel wardrobe must-have. For the holidays, I like to wear a subtle grey cardigan (round neck, please!), buttoned up and tucked into a mini skirt. With the addition of patterned tights and unique loafers, the look is perfect for enjoying brunch with hometown pals before doing a little last-minute shopping. What’s more, wrapping this button-up sweater over the shoulders of your top immediately makes you look like a Copenhagen girlie, the most stylish dressers around.

Riding Boots

Whether you’re looking to get life out of your neglected skinny jeans or want to elevate leggings for a long road trip, riding boots can help you channel that classic prepster vibe. With a long day of travel ahead of me in a few weeks, I plan to wear mine with comfy black leggings, an oversized turtleneck sweater, a quirky baseball hat, and an oversized coat, accomplishing the travel outfit trifecta: simple, sophisticated, and versatile.

Hair Bow

Regardless if you’re wearing an ultra-feminine dress or a jeans-and-cardigan combo, I love adding a hair bow to my look, especially during the holidays. They instill a lighthearted edge to just about any outfit, immediately reminding everyone that your presence is a gift.

Simple Mini Skirt

At least once during the holiday season, I’ll sleep through my alarm — this is when having a couple of solid outfits on standby comes in handy. I’m always sure to pack at least one of these simple mini skirts, knowing my future self will thank me. Last year, I woke up to find preparations for Christmas brunch well underway. Eek! With a pie to bake and not much time to do it, I threw on my go-to mini skirt, slouchy sweater, black tights, and flats. The pie, if you’re curious, was apple, and it was delicious.

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we’ll send you our favorite travel products each week.