Shine OnHow to wear your little black dress to every holiday event
Between family dinners, parties and New Year’s Eve celebrations, we know that the holidays are a busy time -- and we also know that picking an outfit for the numerous events you have to attend can be a nightmare.
Enter the little black dress. This classic item that you probably already have in your wardrobe is perfect for the holidays, because it's so easy to wear and can be dressed up or down for pretty much any occasion.
To prove that the LBD is just as appropriate for a your work party as it is for a girls' night out, we’ve rounded up five different ways to wear one simple black dress throughout the holidays. We chose a flattering Gap fit-and-flare number with a demure rounded neckline and a pleated skirt, but you can alter your dress choice according to your taste and body type.
The event: Date night
The look: Show off your sultry side with a pretty necklace, unique earrings, a cheeky clutch and a pair of glamorous shoes. You’ll have your significant other swooning! Top things off with a cozy wrap coat and a swipe of look-at-me red lipstick. (Club Monaco coat, Jimmy Choo pumps, Swarovski necklace, Dior earrings, Kate Spade clutch)
The event: Work party
The look:
You don’t want to be that co-worker, so keep it classy, but with a twist. Show off your festive-but-still-HR-friendly side with a sequined blazer, a pair of chunky-heeled knee-high boots (so you can mix and mingle without teetering over) and a textured wristlet -- because we all want both hands free to hit up that snack table. Finish off your mostly-monochromatic look with a statement bracelet in a gorgeous jewel tone. (Ann Taylor jacket, Chloe bracelet, Loft boots, Banana Republic wristlet)
The event: Family dinner
The look:
Toss a chunky knit turtleneck over your LBD to give it a laid back, off-duty vibe. A pair of metallic flats will give your look a festive feel without going overboard – and they’re way more comfy for running around after any little ones. This classic outfit doesn’t need too much in terms of add-ons, but since we’re always in for an arm party, we suggest stacking a two-tone watch along with a bangle or two. Reach for a carry-all bag with enough room for all your essentials, plus a little extra space to carry some of mom’s leftover turkey in. (Aritzia turtleneck, Guess bangle, Sam Edelman flats, Madewell tote, Bulova watch)
The event: New Year's Eve
The look: There’s no better time than New Year’s Eve to pull out all the stops and strut your stuff. Go for a classy "Breakfast At Tiffany's" vibe with an updated pearl necklace and faux fur stole, and add some sparkle with silver pumps and belt. Complete the outfit with a fun clutch -- we love this champagne one (and champagne without a hangover is always OK with us). (Shop for Jayu necklace via eBay Festive Favourites, Loeffler Randall pumps, Forever 21 faux fur stole, Tory Burch belt, Alice & Olivia clutch)
The event: Girls' night out
The look: Toughen up your feminine LBD by pairing it with a tough leather biker jacket and a pair of strappy ankle boots that are still totally acceptable for dancing the night away. Unique, mixed silver and gold jewelry and a metallic crossbody bag will give things a festive touch. (Mackage jacket, Old Navy booties, Coach bag, MoonRox earrings via eBay Festive Favourties, Lulu Frost for J. Crew necklace)
What will you be wearing this holiday season?
