What to Wear This Festive Season


Clothing rail with metal hangers decorated with warm fairy lights in a softly lit, festive setting.

Four Festive Outfit Ideas to Take You from Christmas Markets to New Year’s Eve

It seems that the festive season starts earlier every year, with most of the big Christmas ads dropping now the second Halloween ends. As the festive season draws near, it can feel like a style tug-of-war. There are so many different events between now and New Year’s Day, each calling for its own perfect outfit. From office drinks and cosy nights out to glitzy parties and seasonal strolls, finding the right look can be tricky. Here are four ideas to help your readers nail that fun but flexible festive fit.

Layers!

Heading to one of the UK’s many bustling Christmas markets? With chilly UK air creeping in by late autumn and early winter, layering is the key to looking stylish and staying warm. If someone is keen to wear a dress, adding tights is a smart move, as is a thermal-top underneath (out-of-sight but add­ing serious warmth).

Pair with knee-high boots, then top with a fur (or faux-fur) coat and a matching scarf and hat. Not only does this preserve that chic silhouette, but it also gives flexibility: indoors you might take off the coat and scarf; outdoors, you’re covered. The layering approach means the outfit works across a variety of settings from the crisp outside air to the warmth of a market stall or bar interior.

Glitz n Glam

The festive season is anything but dull, and outfits should reflect that spirit. Sequins, glitter and metallics are all very appropriate for the parties and social events that mark December. For a more relaxed evening look, a sparkly bodysuit paired with jeans offers casual edge but still festive flair.

And for how to dress the works do (or a more formal night out), going full-sequin dress means the moment is owned. Metallics, lace and statement pieces are set to be centre stage for the season ahead.

Accessories

Sometimes the simplest outfit becomes party-ready with the right accessories. If someone’s heading to after-work drinks and doesn’t want a full party dress, elevating a simple base look with hair accessories or bold jewellery is a savvy move.

Think crystal hair clips, sparkling earrings, layered necklaces or a clutch with a bit of shine. These little touches bring that festive pop without overdoing it, and they’re versatile enough to carry a look from day to evening.

Colours

Bold reds may not appeal to everyone but that doesn’t mean missing out on festive cheer. Dark burgundy and deep forest green are excellent alternatives: they nod to the season but feel sophisticated rather than costume-like and stuffy.

Richer and deeper tones such as wine-inspired shades are very much in play and on-trend this winter. Incorporating these colours into dresses, coats, shoes or accessories gives a fresh twist on festive style that works for more than one event.

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