Holiday Party Outfits: 20 Chic Looks to Sparkle All Season Long

The Retrofête Grace Sequin Dress brings high‑glam sparkle with hand‑stitched sequins and a velvet tie belt that defines the waist without sacrificing comfort. During our review, we found the reversible keyhole back fun for styling—turn it to the front for extra drama or keep it classic for formal holiday events. Sizing can run small, so scrutinize the chart and your measurements, and note the delicate, dry‑clean‑only fabrication; multiple shoppers also report challenging customer service and returns, so buy from a trusted retailer.

The Emery Sequin Dress from Dress The Population is a guaranteed sparkle moment, with a tailored sheath silhouette that many find incredibly figure‑enhancing and photogenic. In our testing, the stretchy, well‑lined fabric felt comfortable for hours and didn’t scratch, even under a blazer for a holiday cocktail party. Just be mindful that it can run snug through the chest—consider sizing up if fuller‑busted—the sequin weight adds heft and occasional ride‑up, and shorter wearers may need a quick hem.

If you want full-on sparkle for gala season, the Mac Duggal embellished sequin gown delivers drama from every angle. In our testing, the all-over sequined mesh, beaded shoulders, and defined waist created a show-stopping silhouette, while the full lining kept the interior smooth. Just know the embellishment adds weight, and the delicate beads and sequins need gentle handling—expect occasional repairs over time. Because color and size options can be limited, we recommend shopping early to secure your fit for black-tie holiday events.

For a high‑impact entrance, the Retrofête Gabrielle Robe Dress brings all‑over, hand‑stitched sequins and a velvet tie belt that cinches the wrap silhouette for a customizable fit, with multiple vivid color options. During our review, we loved the shimmer and the adjustable waist, and the range of vivid shades and ombrés makes it easy to match any holiday party vibe. That said, it runs small—so check measurements carefully—plus the delicate construction is dry‑clean only, and preowned listings often note missing or loose sequins, so inspect condition if buying resale.

The ASTR the Label Velvet Floral Burnout Bustier Dress brings rich, festive texture at a budget-friendly $109, perfect for holiday parties. We found the structured, strapless bustier silhouette creates a defined shape that pairs beautifully with a shawl or blazer for cocktails. Be aware the bust runs snug—fuller busts may need to size up or tailor—and the delicate burnout fabric prefers gentle care or dry cleaning. With limited stretch, movement is a bit restricted, so plan conservative dance-floor moves and comfortable heels.

Little partygoers will look instantly festive in Rachel Riley’s Velvet Plaid Party Dress, which pairs a luxe velvet bodice with a classic Blackwatch tartan skirt. Our experience shows the full cotton lining makes it comfortable for long family dinners and school concerts, minimizing itch and fidgeting. Just note the $155 price is on the higher side for kids’ occasion wear, sizes can sell out quickly, and care likely requires dry cleaning—helpful to plan ahead before the big event.

For a luxe holiday moment, the Reformation Daniella Velvet Dress brings that rich, velvet sheen with a halter V-neck and slim, evening-ready silhouette. During our review, the 82% rayon/18% silk velvet and full lining gave it a polished drape and better coverage under party lights. Our experience shows the fit runs slim with some inconsistency, so double-check measurements—especially since it’s final sale with no returns. Note it’s dry clean only, so plan for care, but if the cut works, it’s a knockout for black-tie cocktails or New Year’s.

For a budget-friendly showstopper, our experience shows Banana Republic's stretch-velvet maxi delivers plush texture and a sleek, bias-draped fall that reads evening-ready. During our review, the fully lined construction felt smoother and more secure than many unlined velvets, and the classic black makes accessorizing effortless. Do note sizing can be inconsistent - consult measurements and consider a try-on or sizing down. Velvet attracts lint and pet hair and likely needs dry cleaning, so keep a lint roller handy and plan for a little extra care.

This Ludlow shawl-collar tux jacket nails holiday polish - velvet instantly elevates a simple shirt and trousers for black-tie-optional nights. In our testing, the slim cut delivered a modern, tailored look, though sizing can be inconsistent, so plan for a try-on and potential shoulder or chest tailoring. Because it's 100% cotton velvet, it's less insulating than wool; layering a fine-gauge knit helps on chilly commutes. Popular sale drops have seen stock hiccups, so order promptly and confirm fulfillment.

For a sleek base layer under blazers or sequins, the SKIMS Long Slip Dress shines—its buttery ribbed modal feels ultra-soft and hugs the body in a flattering way. We found the inclusive XXS–4X sizing and broad neutrals make it easy to match with holiday layers. Do note lighter colors can be somewhat sheer, so plan smooth, skin-tone undergarments, and some reviewers mention pilling or seam issues with frequent wear. It runs long on petite heights; our experience shows hemming or pairing with heels solves it for party nights.

Self-Portrait's tulle mini is all about the wow factor - the oversized satin bow and floral-embroidered tulle read glam and photogenic from every angle. During our review, the fully lined construction felt more secure and comfortable than many party minis, though the fabric itself has minimal stretch. Keep in mind the crisp white shows stains easily and the $585 price is a splurge, so plan your venue and commute accordingly. If you'll be dancing, consider sizing for movement and pairing with supportive underpinnings.

This Vince midi is the kind of closet MVP we reach for all season: the lustrous, crinkled satin looks instantly dressy, while the bias cut drapes fluidly over curves. In our testing, the fit was reliably true to size, making ordering straightforward. The mid-weight, non-stretch fabric means less give at the waist and hip, so check measurements if you're between sizes. It's a premium buy that requires delicate care, but its mix-and-match potential with knits, blouses, and heels makes it earn its keep.

The Charmaine's drapey Japanese double-faced satin has a soft, liquid sheen we found luxe against the skin, and the bias-cut, strapless silhouette skims beautifully for black-tie dinners. In our testing, the floor-length slip style looked elegant across multiple colorways and sizes, but the slim bias fit can run tight. Plan on fashion tape or minor tailoring for worry-free movement, and avoid perfume or water contact to prevent marks. It's a high-impact, under-$150 statement that photographs far pricier than it is.

For black-tie nights, we loved how the Badgley Mischka off-the-shoulder pebble-crepe gown sculpted a striking hourglass with its boned bodice and dramatic mermaid hem. In our testing, the structured fabric held its shape beautifully through photos and seated dinners. Note it’s 100% polyester and dry clean only, and several retailer notes say it runs slightly small—sizing up helped us keep the neckline secure without compressing. Some listings are final sale, so confirm return policies before you click buy.

Alice + Olivia’s Delora Midi Dress is that sleek, wear‑everywhere party piece, with a bodycon fit, mock‑neck, and three‑quarter sleeves that read polished yet festive. In our testing, the viscose/elastane blend offered comfortable stretch and subtle shaping, making it easy to dance, dine, and mingle without feeling restricted. Be prepared for dry‑clean‑only care, and some shoppers find the cut runs small—sizing up can help—while the exposed back zipper may feel stiff against the skin for sensitive wearers.

We love the Miller Dickey Jacket from Veronica Beard for elevating holiday separates—its slim tailoring carves a polished, hourglass shape over slip dresses or trousers. During our review, the interchangeable dickey system proved invaluable, letting us switch from cozy knit to sequined lapel for party time in seconds. That said, the $695 price and dry-clean-only care make it a splurge, and it can run small through the shoulders and chest. If you’re between sizes, our experience shows sizing up helps preserve that crisp structure without feeling restricted.

For a polished party layer that still feels effortless, Abercrombie’s Classic Suiting Blazer nails the structured-but-relaxed silhouette and slides easily over turtlenecks, sparkly camis, or silk blouses, and at $99.99, it feels like an easy upgrade. In our testing, the low‑maintenance polyester blend shrugged off minor spills and travel wrinkles, making it a smart choice for back‑to‑back holiday events. Just note the deliberately roomy, oversized fit—many will prefer sizing down—and the shoulder pads can feel stiff or a bit pointy, so try it on for comfort.

Zara’s Halter Mini Blazer Dress delivers a sharp, modern twist on suiting with a double‑breasted front that instantly reads party‑ready, and at $79.90, it feels like a trend‑forward win for holiday nights. During our review, the polyester/viscose/elastane blend offered enough structure to smooth without feeling rigid, and the slight stretch kept it comfortable on the dance floor. Just be aware: the hem runs very short—especially on taller frames—so tights or a quick alteration may be needed, the halter/armholes can fit awkwardly, and the flap pockets are mock.

When you want a power finish over a slip dress or sequin skirt, the Smythe Classic Duchess Blazer delivers a sharp, decidedly tailored silhouette. During our review, the 100% wool shell and smooth cupro lining felt premium, and the signature cut-out back vent with brass hardware added standout polish. Just note the slim cut runs tight on curvier frames—sizing up preserved structure without pulling at the buttons. It’s a splurge at $725 and dry clean only, but the craftsmanship makes it a versatile holiday-to-office investment.

Theory’s Etiennette Blazer is the grown‑up upgrade for holiday suiting, with a 96% wool, 4% elastane blend that looks polished and holds structure beautifully and is fully lined in cupro. In our testing, the cupro lining gave it a smooth, comfortable drape over sweaters and slip dresses alike, making it an easy day‑to‑night layer. Just know it’s dry‑clean only and can run small in some iterations, so consider sizing up, and the roughly $350 price tag is an investment—albeit one that elevates everything from jeans to satin skirts.

The Babaton Sculpt Knit Squareneck Mini from Aritzia is a versatile party basic—its stretchy sculpt-knit fabric smooths and supports while the double square neckline feels modern. During our review, the mini length layered well with sheer tights and a blazer for office-to-party plans. However, our experience shows some pieces develop pilling and loose threads sooner than expected, so treat it gently and avoid abrasive bags or jackets. If square necklines aren’t your best friend, try styling with a pendant or blazer to balance the shape.

For a sleek, Old‑Hollywood moment without the fuss, Norma Kamali’s Diana Gown uses asymmetric ruching and a built‑in bodysuit to sculpt and smooth in all the right places. Our experience shows the stretchy, machine‑washable fabric is a game‑changer compared with typical dry‑clean‑only gowns, especially if you’re hopping between holiday events. Do note the internal bodysuit complicates bathroom breaks, the hem can pool on shorter frames, and lighter shades can read a touch sheer around the hips—shapewear or nude slips help.

With a body-hugging silhouette and a subtle shimmer, STAUD's Shoko delivers festive polish you can wear as a dress or unbuttoned as a cardigan. In our testing, the ribbed knit reads sexy yet sophisticated and styles effortlessly with boots or strappy heels. Note that the material can feel a bit scratchy and may stretch out with extended wear - layer a slip and fold instead of hanging to help. The metallic thread can look different in person, but the $225 versatility makes it a party-season workhorse.

For instant holiday sparkle, the Swarovski Millenia Necklace delivers bold shine with its octagon-cut crystal centerpiece. During our review, the rhodium plating resisted quick tarnish and the signature box made it feel gift-ready for party hosts or friends. Keep in mind it’s plated base metal and crystal—not precious materials—so avoid water and daily abrasion to minimize wear on the plating and settings. If you have metal sensitivities, our experience shows you may want to opt for solid sterling or gold options instead.

Add instant shine to any holiday outfit with the Cult Gaia Hera Nano—its rhinestone metal mesh catches light beautifully in photos. In our testing, the petite, lightweight shape fit just the essentials (phone, card case, lipstick) without weighing down your shoulder. The top zipper can be a bit stiff and the short handle drop sits high under the arm, so it’s best as a hand-carry for crowded events. Because hardware and embellishments can wear over time, store it in a dust bag and avoid overstuffing.

If you want your hair accessory to double as jewelry, Jennifer Behr’s Belle Bow Barrette is a showstopper, hand‑embroidered with glass crystals and finished on a sturdy automatic French barrette. In our testing, the craftsmanship felt luxe and secure, and we appreciate that it’s handmade in New York and includes a dust bag for proper storage. Keep in mind the sizable 5.5 by 4.5‑inch bow can feel heavy on fine hair, it requires careful handling away from water and sprays, and the $478 price is a splurge.

If you want legs-for-days, our testing found the Nudistcurve's minimalist straps and slim heel deliver instant length and polish with nearly any cocktail dress. Many buyers - and our team - could wear the heel for hours, though the thin ankle strap may dig during long events. Finishes can scuff easily, so tread carefully on rough dance floors, and fit can vary by version, making an in-store try-on or two sizes a smart move. At this sale price, it's a versatile party shoe with timeless appeal.

During our review, the Bing 100s were certified showstoppers - the crystal strap throws serious sparkle, and the patent leather, pointed toe, and 100mm heel look razor sharp in photos. They do run small and narrow, so consider sizing up and testing fit with evening hosiery. At 100mm, comfort fades after extended standing or dancing; gel pads help for short stints. Delicate embellishments mean mindful wear and storage, but if you want a statement mule for big nights, these deliver.