The holiday season is in full swing: Hallmark is pumping out movies, Starbucks has festive cups, and everything is flavored with white chocolate and peppermint (you won’t find us complaining). With the added stress of gift-buying/wrapping, there’s no reason to also stress about the inevitable holiday party. Whether you’re hosting, a guest, or forced to attend the (at times) dreaded office holiday party, the conclusion is all the same– you deserve to look good! Which is why we’ve curated the 15 most head-turning worthy holiday dresses that would have the Queen of Christmas herself, Mariah Carey asking you where you got it from.
This golden midi dress is relaxed and refined all in one small, sultry package. Toast a year well with the loose blouson sleeves, and enjoy the juxtaposition of the delicate front key-hole cut-out and the open back cut-out. Pair with créme brûlée– the color scheme would be unmatched.
Image courtesy of Revolve
Whoever said metallics were reserved for NYE was seriously mistaken. This layered, lightweight, and pleated metallic dress is best for anyone who has ever been awed by those champagne towers.
Image courtesy of Revolve
For anyone who takes any excuse to dress up, this sweetheart gown looks like it came right out of a holiday movie, specifically the grand reveal scene. You know the one– her at the top of a staircase, him at the bottom in awe. Did we mention is a dreamy light lilac color? Ideal for anyone tired of the holiday-red.
Image courtesy of Revolve
If you looked at this dress, we wouldn’t even have to explain why it turns heads. A metallic burgundy color like this is rare to find, especially in this dreamy off-shoulder cut and ribbed, tight style. Pair with your favorite pair of heels because this dress is would go with just about anything.
Image courtesy of Revolve
For anyone who knows black is the superior wardrobe color and may be a little tired of the red-green combo that is just about everywhere during the holiday season– this gown is for you. Designed with a turtleneck, cold-shoulder, and sheer sleeves combo, this versatile piece could be worn at your holiday party, NYE party, birthday party, or even date night. Pair with some dance moves courtesy of Netflix’s Wednesday Adams.
Image courtesy of Revolve
For the non-traditional partygoers who will stick to a glass of white wine and nibble on the charcuterie board before heading to a real party, this elegant purple gown may just be it. Inspired by ‘70s-style Studio 54, take this deep v-neckline and halter-collar styled gown from the office party straight to the club for a little well-deserved end-of-the-year fun.
Image courtesy of Alice & Olivia
You can’t go wrong with green for the holidays, and this Steve Madden dress is a deep emerald with tonal embellishments that is both subtle and sensational. Pair with a Moscow Mule and stand under some mistletoe for the perfect holiday effect.
Image courtesy of Revolve
Why can’t you be fabulous and warm? This slim, stretchy sweater dress can be worn as a dress or a cardigan, meaning it can go from watching Netflix to regaling your friend’s significant other about your wild post-Covid year.
Image courtesy of Staud
It’s the holidays, so you may as well take advantage of the color red. Pair this dress with a sultry red lip and stunning red heels – because the monochromatic look is in. Made from a silk crinkle chiffon and featuring some seriously gorgeous long billowing sleeves, you’ll look like you stepped off a Holiday Party photoshoot.
Image courtesy of A.L.C.
Reminiscent of a young Audrey Hepburn, this dress is begging you to have drinks at Tiffany’s this holiday season. Its a-line shape and open back are all tied together with a gentle bow. Pair with a croissant, an updo, and maybe even an orange tabby cat.
Image courtesy of Staud
Sometimes you just need to spice up your routine, and this dress does just that. With its form-fitting, longsleeved, turtleneck style, upon first glance, this dress is simple and easy for parties as well as coffee dates. But upon closer inspection, you’ll notice diamond cutouts that tease at something more. Pair with a dirty martini– because you can.
Image courtesy of Revolve
We’ve said it once, and we’ll say it again, sweater dresses are the ultimate winter aesthetic. This ribbed jersey fabric is form-fitting with subtle waist cutouts– an upgraded take on a classic because why should you be uncomfortable just because you’re at a party? Short answer: you shouldn’t.
Image courtesy of Revolve
This dress has no secret with its subtle moss green color and slim, knitted fit. Styled like a short top and gorgeous maxi skirt, this dress is brought together with a slim knot that exposes your waist to end your year a little naughty after being nice.
Image courtesy of Revolve
If patterns are up your alley, this gently patterned dress is the IT dress of the holiday party season. Made from lightweight linen and featuring a gorgeous side seam split, the Kari Maxi is cut in a smock-style fit that is casual and perfect for a quiet holiday party with friends and family. Pair with a hot (spiked) apple cider
Image courtesy of Revolve
Sometimes the best way to end the year is to keep it simple, and while this dress isn’t exactly that, the pull-on turtleneck style has a uniquely comfy vibe. Pair that with the metallic fabric and tie at the waist and you have the perfect chill holiday party look for those of us not going to a ball or gala and may just be enjoying some aperitifs with friends in front of a fire.
Image courtesy of Revolve
