Rediscover the joy of dressing up this holiday season with these standout pieces

No matter how you usually celebrate the holiday season, chances are that your plans this year will require some adjusting. The usual fixtures such as office parties and big-scale celebrations are set to be replaced by more intimate gatherings and, in many cases, online festivities. However, the impetus to embrace party dressing, and fashion in general, has never been stronger for some. After a year during which many of us spent more time at home than ever before – swapping our 9-to-5 uniforms for loungewear – and reasons to be cheerful often felt in short supply, dressing up for a special occasion – whatever form it might take – can lift your spirits.

No matter how small the soirée, bright and colorful pieces can help bring a sense of ceremony to the occasion. London-based designer Roksanda is known for her architectural approach to fashion, and her silk, color-block dress is no exception. The high neck gives this piece an air of elegance while the drapery ensures it’s incredibly easy to wear. Alternatively, Johanna Ortiz’s scarlet crinkled-crepe midi dress, complete with removable, playful puffed sleeves, strikes the perfect balance between seasonal and seasonless, making it a fail-safe investment. Of course, party style doesn’t stop with dresses. Altuzarra’s timeless white two-piece suit features a subtly cinched waist, creating a ladylike silhouette, while Jonathan Simkhai’s irreverent take on this classic combination combines a cropped jacket and split-leg pants, making it clear that this suit is strictly after-hours.

If you’re limited to Zoom parties this festive season, the secret to mastering the perfect look is by taking this year’s definitive trend – dressing from the waist up – to a whole new level. The LBD is a classic piece that will have a cherished place in your closet for seasons to come, meaning you’re guaranteed maximum return on investment, whether you get to debut it IRL this year or not. Whether you gravitate towards Alice + Olivia’s dainty spaghetti straps or Dion Lee’s understated knit design, simply add a pair of statement earrings or a diamond necklace for a faultless look. Better yet, adorned dresses by Self-Portrait and Saloni, finished with sparkling bow detailing and polka-dot sleeves, require no additional embellishment. These trophy pieces work perfectly for video calls and candlelit dinners.

Of course, as a result of lockdown restrictions in many countries, a lot of festive events this year are set to take place outside, making impactful outerwear a non-negotiable in every party closet. Consider Remain Birger Christensen’s timeless leather trench the perfect finishing touch to any elevated winter look. This luxe coat is set to be on heavy rotation this holiday season.

For many of us, 2020 was the year that we realized the pieces hanging in our closets can be a source of comfort, solace and strength, and that shrugging on a beautiful design can totally transform our mood. Use this knowledge to your advantage by re-discovering the joy of dressing up this holiday season.

What to wear to celebrate the holiday season – even if that’s mostly Zoom parties

The look: modern tux