Introducing The Holiday Capsule Wardrobe—The Only Seasonal Dressing Guide You Need to See

Other than the occasional birthday party or wedding, most people don’t have many occasions throughout the year to get all dressed up, so by the time the holidays come around, we’re all beyond eager to do so. Not that we’re suggesting there ever needs to be a reason to wear your highest heels, a party dress, or stacks of diamond jewelry—”because I felt like it” is certainly reason enough—but when everyone else in attendance is participating in the same dress code, it’s simply more fun.

With party season kicking off, we’ve curated a capsule wardrobe filled with pieces that can be mixed and matched throughout the season. Hosting a holiday dinner? Attending an NYE wedding? Going gift shopping with friends? If you have an event, we have the look for it. Our edit is complete with fabulous dresses, luxe layering pieces, festive accessories, and glamorous jewelry for your most stylish holiday season yet. So go ahead—RSVP “yes.”

We don’t need to convince you that LBDs are wardrobe warriors, but we will suggest opting for satin or silk iterations for holiday parties (like this square-neck, pleated mini from Khaite). There are endless styling possibilities for a versatile piece like this, but red accessories make for a bold and tastefully festive approach—a mini bag, patent pumps, and sheer tights included. A diamond-adorned Cartier watch adds that special touch deserving of a special occasion.

A fancy affair like New Year’s Eve or a wedding (or a New Year’s Eve wedding) deserves an equally fancy outfit. Lean into the drama of the bright lights and loud music surrounding the night by shimmering from head to toe in a gold gown that’s as elegant as it is dramatic. And why stop there? Finishing touches are just as important. Add a metallic eyeshadow and stacks of rose, yellow, and white gold Love bracelets—go big but definitely do not go home.

To get into the holiday spirit even when there’s no event or party on the agenda (other than dancing to holiday music in your living room, of course), consider adding some festive styling direction to your everyday uniform. Start with the essentials: dark-wash denim and a perfect white tee. Next, layer in some elevated accessories like a statement belt and chic leather watch. Then finish off the look with some seasonal staples like a red sweater and a bold red lip to match.

Don’t underestimate the power of a power suit (no pun intended). To give off less office and more opulence, it’s really just a matter of adding in a little—okay, fine—a lot of sparkle. Stacks of gold jewelry and a watch (Cartier, if we have it our way) will do the trick.

Don’t stress about that casual holiday dinner or drinks plan that will inevitably pop up at the very last minute. At least not when it comes to your outfit. Have fun with luxe separates and statement accessories. A leather top paired with your favorite black trousers (both of which you’ll undoubtedly wear with many other pieces in the months to come) and styled with some fierce jewelry? Sounds about right.