7 Subtle Holiday Season Outfits That Don't Require Purchasing a Glittery Dress
I have to admit that I've worn quite a few sparkly outfits during the holiday season over the years, and I'm sure I'll do so again. While sparkles and sequins may be a bit of a cliché at this time of year, that’s not the reason I sometimes steer clear of them. Most of my holiday events are relatively relaxed, so I need outfits that are more understated than a sparkly dress. Nevertheless, I still aim to look festive this season. For that reason, I've been on the lookout for unique, effortless outfits for the holidays, and I hit the jackpot with the following selections. From looks that feature winter's most popular sweater trend to the most sophisticated way to style a faux fur coat and the chicest approach to wearing jeans to an event, these seven ideas are perfect for everything from an office holiday party to a New Year's Day brunch. Trust me—if you decide to recreate any of these festive outfits, compliments will surely come your way. Keep reading to discover what you'll need to put together these looks.
Brown, Green, and Red Sweaters + Black Pants + Pumps
If you want to look particularly festive, consider this distinctive way to wear red and green. Three sweaters are definitely better than one, right?
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J.Crew
Perfect Cashmere Cardigan
J.Crew
Perfect Cashmere Crewneck Sweater
J.Crew
Perfect Cashmere Crewneck Sweater
MANGO
Pull-On Stretch Cotton Pants
Fair Isle Sweater + Black Pants + Pumps
Nothing screams the holidays quite like a red Fair Isle sweater. Elevate the elegance by pairing it with heels and black trousers.
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J.Crew
Fair Isle 2025 Rollneck Sweater in Vintage Wool
Favorite Daughter
The Favorite Pants
Jeffrey Campbell
Volturi Pump
Long Coat + Faux-Fur Scarf + Black Jeans + Loafers
Faux-fur scarves have swiftly become the must-have accessory for winter, instantly elevating any outfit.
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ZARA
ZW Collection Limited Edition Wool Blend Coat
AGOLDE
Valen Mid-Rise Straight-Leg Jeans
Fur Coat + Belt + Flared Jeans + Heels
The only thing better than a fur coat is one that’s belted. This look is particularly stylish with flared jeans.
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Apparis
Blair Mid Length Coat
Madewell
Skinny Leather Belt
Good American
Good Legs Flare Jeans
Leopard-Print Blazer + Black Pants + Pumps
When you’ve got a statement piece like a leopard-print blazer, you don’t need much else.
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ZARA
Tailored Animal Print Blazer
Fair Isle Cardigan + Dark-Wash Jeans + Sheer Tights + Heels
The mix of dark denim and sheer tights instantly dresses up a Fair Isle cardigan.
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J.Crew
Fair Isle Cardigan in Vintage Wool
Calzedonia
30 Denier Invisible Tights
Cashmere Sweater + Brocade Pants + Flats
If you want to look festive with minimal effort, pair your flats and a simple sweater with some printed trousers.
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Reformation
Nikki Cashmere Crew
ZARA
Balloon Jacquard Pants ZW Collection
Toteme
Minimalist Velvet Ballet Flats
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7 Subtle Holiday Season Outfits That Don't Require Purchasing a Glittery Dress
You'll be sporting these styles much more than just once a year.