7 Subtle Holiday Season Outfits That Don't Require Purchasing a Sparkly Dress
I must confess that I've worn many sparkly outfits during the holiday season over the years, and I’m likely to do so again. While sparkles and sequins can be a bit clichéd this time of year, that’s not the sole reason I sometimes shy away from them. Most of the holiday events on my schedule are fairly relaxed, so I prefer outfits that are more subdued than a glittery dress. Nevertheless, I still want to appear festive during this season. For that reason, I've been on the lookout for special, effortless outfits to wear this holiday season, and I struck gold with the following looks. From ensembles featuring winter's biggest sweater trend to the most sophisticated way to style a faux fur coat and the trendiest way to wear jeans for an occasion, these seven suggestions are suitable for everything from an office holiday party to a New Year’s Day brunch. Believe me, compliments are headed your way if you decide to recreate any of these festive outfits. Keep reading to discover what you’ll need to do.
Brown, Green, and Red Sweaters + Black Pants + Pumps
If you want to stand out and look especially festive, try this distinctive approach to wearing red and green. Three sweaters are indeed 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 embodies the holidays quite like a red Fair Isle sweater. Elevate your look 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 rapidly become the must-have accessory of winter. They can instantly elevate 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
A belted fur coat is even better than a regular fur coat. This style looks 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 wearing a bold piece like a leopard-print blazer, you don’t need much more.
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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 immediately enhances the dressiness of 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
To look festive effortlessly, pair your simple sweater and flats 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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