25 Smart Casual Christmas Party Outfits for All Your Holiday Functions (2024)

Festive, work-appropriate outfits for the company holiday party and beyond.

By Elizabeth Berry and Alesandra Dubin
25 Smart Casual Christmas Party Outfits for All Your Holiday Functions (1)

Every item on this page was chosen by a Woman's Day editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

There’s so much to love about the holiday season: from sharing gifts and Christmas greeting cards with loved ones, to whipping up a batch of Christmas desserts or Christmas cocktails, to decking the halls with Christmas decor and expressing creativity — and love — through jolly Christmas crafts.

And then of course, there are all those fun holiday parties that dot the calendar throughout the month of December. But what to wear to the office holiday party, or the annual family bash? Let our list of the best Christmas party outfit ideas inspire your seasonal wardrobe.

Whether your plans call for casual, dressy, or professionally appropriate, there’s something for every soiree on our list — and none of our budget-conscious picks will break the bank. Think dresses, sweaters, skirts, shoes and boots, and plenty of finishing touches, including purses, scarves, hair accessories, and sparkly statement jewelry.

Scoop up some of these affordable finds as a Christmas gift to yourself (you deserve it!). And do it guilt free: These pieces are practical and versatile so you can repurpose them all season long through New Year’s Eve — and beyond.

Hosting your own holiday fête and still looking for more inspiration? Check out our roundup packed with Christmas party ideas sure to make the celebration fun and memorable.

A Universally Flattering Jumpsuit

Halogen V-Neck Flutter Sleeve Wide Leg Plissé Jumpsuit

25 Smart Casual Christmas Party Outfits for All Your Holiday Functions (2)

Now 50% Off

Available in dark wine (pictured) and light gold colorways, this shimmery flutter sleeve jumpsuit is a pretty pick for any type of holiday party. It's an affordable, dressy outfit that you'll absolutely wear on other occasions too.

An On-Trend Midi Skirt

The Drop Manon Vegan Leather Wrap Front Midi Skirt

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25 Smart Casual Christmas Party Outfits for All Your Holiday Functions (4)

Now 31% Off

Pair this vegan leather wrap skirt with a chic turtleneck and tights for a trendy holiday party look, then repurpose it in the spring and fall with a crop top or lightweight cardigan.

For the Work Holiday Party

The Drop Women's Blake Long Blazer, Java Velvet

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Toss this cool longline blazer in crushed velvet over any outfit to make it instantly party-worthy.

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A Kitschy Cardigan

Tipsy Elves Sequin Snowfall Ugly Christmas Cardigan

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25 Smart Casual Christmas Party Outfits for All Your Holiday Functions (7)

Now 29% Off

Whether or not the party’s dress code officially calls for a Christmas sweater, you’re sure to get noticed in this fun textured number strewn with sequin snowflakes and dots of snow.

This oversized sweater dress is as cute and cozy as it is comfy: Eat all the holiday sweets you like without straining against zippers or buttons!

A Standout Suit

Sequin Tuxedo Suit

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If you hear “suit” and think buttoned-up office wear, think again: This notice-me sequin suit set comes in jazzy colors, including red, silver, gold, and green.

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A Fancy Jeweled Headband

Jeweled Headband

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Nothing ties an outfit together like a statement headband. And this bejeweled band has a wow factor to give added oomph to even a basic black dress.

A Sparkly Purse

Rhinestone Purse

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25 Smart Casual Christmas Party Outfits for All Your Holiday Functions (13)

This sparkly bag is a party all on its own. Available in 10 colors to suit your style, you’ll want to wear it with everything — all holiday season long.

Leather-Look Leggings

Retro Gong High-Waisted Faux Leather Leggings

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The faux-leather finish gives these leggings a polished, dressy look. But they’re still leggings — so you can go the distance on the dance floor in unrestricted comfort.

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Festive Hosiery

MeMoi Scottish Plaid Tartan Sweater Tights

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Take a monochrome dress up a notch with printed tights that evoke a cozy woolen sweater.

For a Classic and Casual Look

Miessial Crew Neck Lantern Sleeve Sweater

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This adorable pom-pom sweater will bring some cheer to any Christmas celebration. Pair it with your trusty jeans and some jewelry for a casual but elegant look.

For a Dose of Drama

GUBERRY Velvet Ruched Cocktail Party Dress

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Kick things up a notch with this sophisticated wrap dress. Nothing says "winter party" quite like a luxe velvety dress. Best of all, it's about $40, so your wallet will be happy, too.

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For Day-to-Evening Versatility

Berydress Wrap Dress

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25 Smart Casual Christmas Party Outfits for All Your Holiday Functions (19)

Now 34% Off

The gathered waist detailing on this dress adds just the right amount of flair. Add a pair of strappy heels and you're ready for any festive event this season.

For All-Day (and All-Night) Comfort

Leadingstar A-Line Party Casual Dress

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This comfortable V-neck dress would be perfect for any holiday get-together, whether it's an office party or a gathering with family and friends. It comes in more than 20 colors, so there's sure to be a shade that suits you.

For Major Glamour

VIJIV Sequin Cocktail Dress

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25 Smart Casual Christmas Party Outfits for All Your Holiday Functions (22)

Now 55% Off

Channel your inner 1920s flapper with this gorgeous sequined dress. Since the dress itself is so eye-catching, you can keep the accessories understated.

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For a Flirty Cocktail Party Look

Sarin Mathews Off The Shoulder Short Sleeve Cocktail Dress

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25 Smart Casual Christmas Party Outfits for All Your Holiday Functions (24)

Everyone needs at least one classic cocktail dress in their closet, and this high-low skater dress fits the bill. You can go with classic black or choose from over a dozen different colors, and the more than 20,000 five-star reviews make it clear this number one bestselling cocktail dress on Amazon will soon become your favorite LBD.

A Cozy Layer

ALFANI Striped Turtleneck Poncho Sweater

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You can choose from five different colors that all have the same stripped pattern and asymmetrical hemline. The flowy fit will have you reaching for this turtleneck all winter long. One of the 440 five-star reviews reads: "I absolutely love this sweater. I have previously purchased it over the years in other colors. Never stop making this style of sweater Alfani."

Dressed-Up Jeans

Levi's Shaping Skinny Jeans

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25 Smart Casual Christmas Party Outfits for All Your Holiday Functions (27)

You've got to have a reliable pair of jeans to get you through some of the season's more casual holiday parties. Toss your favorite sweater on top of these Levi's for a cozy, festive party outfit.

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Seasonal Sparkle

Cresay Sequin Bomber Jacket

25 Smart Casual Christmas Party Outfits for All Your Holiday Functions (28)

25 Smart Casual Christmas Party Outfits for All Your Holiday Functions (29)

Now 24% Off

Who needs a fireworks show when you've got this fun and festive jacket? With such an attention-grabbing bomber, you'll want to keep the rest of your party outfit simple so this piece can really shine.

For Festive Warmth on Top

Simplee Apparel Fluffy Faux Fur Short Coat

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Any outfit becomes party-worthy once you add this faux fur jacket. Bonus: You'll be cozy, no matter how cold it is outside.

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Elizabeth Berry

Updates Editor

Elizabeth Berry (she/her) is the Updates Editor at the Good Housekeeping Institute where she optimizes lifestyle content across verticals. Prior to this role, she was an Editorial Assistant for Woman’s Day where she covered everything from gift guides to recipes. She also has experience fact checking commerce articles and holds a B.A. in English and Italian Studies from Connecticut College.

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Alesandra Dubin

Contributing Writer

Alesandra is a digital travel and lifestyle journalist based in Los Angeles whose work has appeared in Good Housekeeping, Woman’s Day, Prevention, Insider, Glamour, Shondaland, AFAR, Parents, TODAY and countless other online and print outlets. Alesandra has a masters degree in journalism with an emphasis on cultural reporting and criticism from NYU, and a bachelor’s degree from UC Berkeley. An avid traveler, she trots the globe with her husband and their twins.

25 Smart Casual Christmas Party Outfits for All Your Holiday Functions (2024)

FAQs

What to wear smart-casual for a Christmas party? ›

The ideal dress code for Christmas varies depending on the event. For formal gatherings, opt for a suit or tuxedo in festive colors or with subtle holiday patterns. Casual events call for a smart combination of a blazer or sweater with trousers or dark jeans.

What is dressy casual for a holiday party? ›

Quick example – Your chosen outfit black pants, nice top, and jacket. For a casual look, pair with cute pair of boots, purse, and daily jewelry. For a more formal look, change up sparkle pumps, clutch, and statement necklace.

Can I wear jeans to Christmas party? ›

Jeans can be acceptable for casual Christmas parties. Choose a dark wash and a well-fitted style. Pair them with a festive sweater or a smart blazer to keep the look appropriate for the occasion.

What color to wear for a Christmas party? ›

Christmas Eve celebrations vary widely, from large parties to intimate dinners. Consider the event when choosing your Christmas Eve outfit, but no matter how big the celebration, festive colors like red and green are always a great way to add a dash of holiday cheer.

What is not allowed in smart casual dress code? ›

What does it mean and what is the Smart Casual Dress Code? It is a style somewhere between formal and casual. Not a smart look with a jacket and tie then, but also not an overly sporty outfit with trainers, t-shirt and jeans. Smart Casual means 'simple, yet elegant'.

What is the best outfit for smart casual? ›

Trousers, including chinos and jeans work well with a blouse or jacket. Long, or just below the knee, skirts in a range of fabrics pair well with plain tops and jackets. Trousers and skirts which have a subtle design pattern provide a well-matched look with a variety of tops.

What not to wear to a holiday party? ›

A good rule of thumb is to avoid sheer fabrics and anything that shows cleavage. Sleeveless tops are okay, but should be paired with a longer skirt or pants.

What is the holiday chic dress code? ›

In fact, the festive or celebratory chic dress code is a quite relaxed semi-formal dress code, opening the doors to fun outfits filled with bright colors and patterns. As noted by bridal stylist Erika Plackowski in Brides, “Festive attire is a fun and colorful spin on semi-formal wear.

What should a woman wear to a Christmas party? ›

Go for a darker pair of jeans / trousers with a cami top or party top and a heel for a chic and polished look. Add some festive earrings if you want to add a little playfulness – it is still a party after all! A blazer is a great way to bridge the gap between casual and smart-casual.

Is it OK to wear a black dress to a Christmas party? ›

For an evening party, try to go with darker colors, such as black, gray, or red. You can also collaborate your attire with the festive Christmas colors, which are often dark green, deep red, and gold.

Can you wear a short dress to a Christmas party? ›

At this occasion, I would avoid any short dresses/skirts and anything too flashy. You want to look festive, but still, wear something office appropriate. If the party is being held by family or friends I would consider asking the host what the party attire will be.

What is the Christmas dress code? ›

Ladies: Choose a glamorous dress and add a glitzy bag, shoes and accessories. Gentlemen: Choose a dark suit and match a dress shirt with a tie. Tuxedos are a great way to impress but ask your colleagues if they are wearing one too to avoid an awkward situation. Don't forget to polish your shoes!

What is the best theme color for Christmas party? ›

Traditional Tones
  • Red and Green: The quintessential Christmas color combination that evokes memories of classic holiday scenes.
  • Gold and Red: Rich and regal, this combination brings warmth and splendor to any setting.
  • Silver and Blue: A cooler, yet still festive palette that often complements winter themes.

Can I wear orange to a Christmas party? ›

So orange is probably an seemingly odd choice for a holiday party, but with the sea red dresses you know you'll see its one sure fire way to stand out.

What is smart casual dress code for dinner party? ›

Casual Dinner Parties: For more relaxed gatherings, opt for a smart-casual look. Men can go for a pair of chinos paired with a crisp shirt, while women might choose a chic midi skirt or tailored trousers with a stylish blouse. Accessories can elevate your outfit – think a statement watch or a pair of pearl earrings.

What is festive smart casual? ›

Festive Casual

It's less about traditional formal wear and more about adding a seasonal touch to the casual attire you might wear on an everyday basis. This dress code is typically for laid-back holiday gatherings where comfort is key, but a nod to the holiday spirit is still appreciated.

What is smart casual attire for an event? ›

Smart casual includes items like blazers, sports jackets, dresses, sweaters, trousers, khakis, skirts, blouses, button-down shirts, polos, dress shoes, boots, heels, flats, scarves and jewelry.

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