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It’s almost fancy dress season. There’s that office holiday party looming, then that get-together your work friend invited you to but you don’t really want to go to. Plus, Christmas is just around the corner (which also means gifting season is upon us.) With so many occasions jam-packed into so little time, now’s the season to really put your closet to work. But don’t go broke trying to buy a new outfit for every invitation. All it takes is one (or two) special statement pieces to liven up your existing wardrobe. Scroll down to shop our favorites to give your holiday outfit some pizzazz. The best part? Some of them are on sale thanks to timely cyber-week sales.
Add A Trendy Blingy Belt
Designers have figured out that everything looks better covered in rhinestones, and accessories aren’t exempt. A belt like this has seen its fair share of Nickelodeon Orange Carpets, but now you can unironically wear it to jazz up turtlenecks and knit dresses.
Use This Easy Party Hack
Arguably the easiest holiday-party hack is a statement earring. Pearls like these feel elegant, dainty, and special.
Add A Party Blazer
It’s always awkward when business meets the holiday-party season. That’s wear a party blazer comes in: In velvet, it’s professional with a hint of fun. Try it with high-waist trousers and a metallic pointy-toe pump.
Layer a Statement Sweater
Sweaters are usually worn out of necessity, not to make fashion statements. But behold, a sweater that’s actually not boring! Pair it with a satin slip skirt for a cool, low-key outfit perfect for that holiday house party.
Opt for a Va-Va-Voom Dress
Banana Republic knows how to make dresses that hug all the right places. The spaghetti-strap silhouette and sequined fabric lends some Old Hollywood glamour that goes great with a red lip.
Slip On Festive Pants
Instead of opting for skirts and dresses for special holiday occasions, why not give festive pants a try? These carry a hint of shimmer that’s interesting and minimal at the same time. Finish them off with a black cropped sweater and sparkly drop earrings.
Opt For a Comfy Heel
It’s a given that at least one holiday party will require a formal dress code that calls for heels. Don’t be the person struggling to walk because your shoes are torture devices: Choose a pair with a platform to equalize the stress on your feet.
Invest In a Necklace You Can Wear Year-Round
Give your neckline some extra assistance with a sculptural gold necklace. It’s an easy way to add interest to your tops, and the sleek design can carry you long after the holiday season.
Just Do It, Go for the Sheer Dress
Sheer dresses might be associated with summer, but switch it up this holiday season by opting for a barely there dress.
Or Choose the Sweet Midi
Meeting parents for the first time? This silky midi dress, which nods to the holidays without being a tartan plaid, will leave an impression.
Or a Minidress
If you’d rather look more edgy than sweet. Finish it off with a cropped cardigan and pair of thigh-high boots.
Don’t Forget a Vibrant Winter Topper
Your party outfit is all good until it gets down to choosing between a puffer and an anorak. Never ruin a great outfit with an ugly coat again: This lush faux-fur wonder can also give the outfit underneath the upgrade it needs.
Do This If You Hate Cold Feet
When strappy sandals aren’t a reasonable choice for the weather, a heeled boot can do the trick.
Don’t Like Dresses? Try Flashy Leather Pants
If you want to be casual but not too informal, try these plum-leather pants in the moody color Night Shade.
Always Add Earrings That Bring the Drama
Crystal drop earrings have a way of making even the plainest white T-shirts look fancy. Throw these in your bag in the morning and put them on before leaving the office.
Top It Off With Embellished Mini-Bag
Yes, it’s so tiny it’s essentially ornamental, but the moment of the mini-bag is still upon us.
Here’s A Dreamy Top
So you have a great pair of pants or skirt in mind, and all you need is a top to finish it off? Might we suggest this silky, v-neck top from Aritzia? With a smocked waistand billowy sleeves, there’s so much wow factor to take in.
And a Multifunctional Blouse
If you’re in the market for interesting tops that are timeless enough to be worn over and over, St. Roche is a brand to know. Pair this with a cute sweater vest or even fun trousers for a polished, work-friendly party look.
Business in the Front, Party on the Socks
If you get cold feet (not literally — you RSVP’d to the party, after all) but don’t want to commit to boots, pair your heels with some cute socks.
More Holiday Dressing
- How to Wear Sparkles on New Year’s Eve and Still Look Hot
- What to Wear to All Those Holiday Parties
- 18 New Year’s Eve Outfits That Aren’t Sparkly