Everything You Need: What to Wear While Hosting During the Holiday Season

      Tiffany Reid is an editor in residence at Who What Wear, as well as a fashion executive, freelance stylist, and brand consultant, having recently held the position of senior vice president of fashion at Bustle Digital Group. She has recently introduced a YouTube series called Tried + True, where she guides viewers through contemporary trends. This year marks my official hosting era. I hosted Thanksgiving for the first time, accommodating 30 guests, and I am now in the midst of planning my New Year's Eve party to welcome 2026. One unexpected benefit of hosting is the ability to establish the atmosphere, from the guest list to the food, music, and, most importantly, the dress code. There’s an empowering feeling in inviting people into your home and crafting a unique experience. I derive immense joy from seeing my loved ones enjoy themselves during the moments I've curated for them. Hosting is less about perfection and more about intention, and this mindset influences how you present yourself and, of course, how you dress. While every detail matters, I firmly believe that what you wear as a host is as crucial as the ambiance you create. Your appearance at the event helps shape the overall feel of the gathering. Your outfit often serves as the first impression for guests, subtly conveying the mood—be it festive, relaxed, elevated, or celebratory. While looking stylish is essential, being comfortable is also key to a balanced hosting outfit, especially since I'm often running after my little one while serving champagne to my guests. Regardless of whether your event is formal, casual, or somewhere in between, these holiday hosting style tips will simplify your outfit choices for your upcoming soirée!

      1. Embrace a Statement Print

      Hosting provides a great opportunity to have fun with fashion. An animal print, geometric design, or graphic floral can instantly appear both intentional and festive with minimal styling. You want to capture the room's attention—after all, it’s your party. A bold pattern will help you stand out and let guests easily locate you when they need assistance.

       - Baum Und Pferdgarten: Aneva Dress

       - Simkhai: Ravenna Gilded Jacquard Midi Dress

       - Tibi: Scribble Dot Print Stretch Plisse Wrap Dress

       - MANGO: Rhinestone Polka-Dot Halter Dress

       - Nicholas the Label: Odila Abstract Ruched Maxi Dress

       - Brandon Maxwell: The Camille Hand-Printed Cashmere Turtleneck Dress

      2. Opt for a Monochromatic Look

      Wearing one color head to toe is a foolproof choice, whether you select a subtle ivory outfit or something bold, like red. Monochromatic ensembles always look chic and put-together. When you're managing a long to-do list before the event, it’s nice to have an easy item to check off. The final look gives off an impression of more effort than a monochromatic outfit truly requires, showing your guests that you made an effort to dress up.

       - Diane von Furstenberg: Camille Dress

       - FALKE: Pure Matt 50 Semi Opaque Tights

       - The Frankie Shop: Wesra Knit Bermuda Shorts

       - The Frankie Shop: Wesra Knit Sweatshirt

       - Staud: Wally High Heel Boots

      3. Embrace Cozy, Festive Knits

      When hosting, comfort is key, and it often takes precedence. If that’s the case, yet you still want to look fashionable, choose cozy materials like cashmere featuring sophisticated prints or embellishments. The added details keep the look festive and engaging.

       - Tory Burch: Wool and Alpaca Sweater

       - Misha & Puff: Fair Isle Freja Sweater

       - Polo Ralph Lauren: Snowflake V-Neck Short Sleeve Sweater

       - Banana Republic: Wool-Alpaca Blend Sweater Tunic

      4. Focus on Movable Pieces

      You’ll be preparing food, welcoming guests, and tidying up, and if children are present, you might be doing quite a bit of lifting. Hence, ensure your outfit allows for movement. Stretchy waistbands, wrap styles, and silky sets feel relaxed yet polished and can easily be assembled. The freedom of movement enables you to concentrate on what matters most—entertaining your guests.

       - Reformation: Serafina Silk Dress

       - SLEEPER: Floral Applique Cotton Poplin Pajama Set

       - ZARA: Semi-Sheer Draped Top

       - ZARA: Semi-Sheer Bubble Pants

      5. Wear Comfortable Shoes

      Opt for shoes that you can wear comfortably for hours, such as fashionable flats or cozy slippers if you're staying indoors. The objective is to find something that allows you to remain stylish throughout the night while navigating the event. There are excellent combinations of flats and slippers available now, ensuring that you can make a statement while working the room.

       - Sleeper: Lulu Shearling Sl