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From Friendsgiving to the office party to that one dinner where everyone “dresses up a little,” the holiday season is full of events with vague dress codes.
What does “festive casual” even mean?
Usually, it means something a little nicer than normal that still feels comfortable. Velvet. A great coat. Boots that make jeans look dressy. One sparkly accessory.
These 12 stylish fall outfits are made for exactly that. Each one comes with the events it suits and a quick way to make it more festive.
Want the easiest holiday upgrade? Number 10 turns everyday clothes into party clothes. And number 1 is the most festive outfit on the list.
Your holiday outfit cheat sheet
Friendsgiving: dressy denim or a knit dress.
Thanksgiving dinner: a midi skirt and turtleneck, or a sweater dress.
Office holiday party: velvet, a tailored coat or a monochrome look.
Holiday dinner out: a maxi dress or velvet pants with heels.
1. Velvet pieces
Here’s the most festive outfit on the list.
Velvet pants, a velvet blazer or a velvet dress in deep green, burgundy or navy. It’s soft, rich and instantly feels like the holidays.
Best for: holiday dinners and parties.
Make it festive: pair velvet pants with a satin cami, heels and pearls.

2. Monochrome looks
One color, head to toe, in different textures.
Best for: the office party.
Make it festive: leather pants with a matching knit, or a satin skirt with a cozy cardigan.

3. The knit dress
Soft, stretchy and flattering.
Best for: Thanksgiving dinner (it’s very forgiving after a big meal).
Make it festive: a wide belt and knee-high boots.

4. Skirt and sweater
A flowy skirt with a relaxed sweater.
Best for: family gatherings.
Make it festive: heeled boots and a layered necklace.

5. The tailored coat
A fitted coat elevates everything under it.
Best for: any event, especially if you arrive cold.
Make it festive: belt it and add statement earrings.

6. Plaid pieces
Classic holiday plaid.
Best for: Thanksgiving and early December events.
Make it festive: a plaid dress with knee-high boots, or a plaid coat over all black.

Halfway there. Number 10 is next, and it’s the easiest upgrade of all.
7. Statement boots
The right boots turn a simple outfit into a look.
Best for: casual holiday gatherings.
Make it festive: metallic, suede or embellished knee-highs with a plain dress.

8. Leather with cozy knits
A leather skirt or pants with a soft sweater.
Best for: Friendsgiving and holiday drinks.
Make it festive: gold jewelry and a red lip.

9. Midi skirt and turtleneck
An elegant fall silhouette.
Best for: Thanksgiving dinner and church services.
Make it festive: a satin skirt in a jewel tone.

10. Statement accessories
Here’s the easiest upgrade.
Keep your regular fall clothes and add the fun stuff: big earrings, a sparkly necklace, a beaded bag or a hair bow.
Best for: any event when you don’t want to buy something new.
Make it festive: layer a necklace over a turtleneck.

11. Dressy denim
Jeans can be party-ready.
Best for: casual get-togethers.
Make it festive: dark straight-leg jeans with a silky blouse and heeled boots.

12. Maxi dress for chilly nights
A romantic maxi dress with a coat or cardigan.
Best for: holiday dinners and photos.
Make it festive: add a statement belt.

Frequently asked questions
What should I wear to a holiday party in the fall?
Velvet, satin, a knit dress or dark jeans with a dressy top all work well.
What colors are best for holiday outfits?
Burgundy, emerald green, navy, camel, cream and a little gold.
How can I make a normal outfit feel festive?
Add sparkly jewelry, a satin piece or a bold lip.
What’s a comfortable outfit for Thanksgiving dinner?
A knit dress or a midi skirt with a stretchy turtleneck.
Ready for the season
The holidays are busy enough. Your outfits should be easy.
Pick a few favorites and mix them for every event on your calendar.
For Thanksgiving, see these Thanksgiving outfits for women perfect for fall feasts.
For more fall ideas, try these celebrity sweater outfits you’ll want for the holidays and these cozy fall outfits you’ll love.
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