Are you wondering what to wear for a Christmas party? Then you’ve definitely come to the right place. Below, you’ll find 11 beautiful Christmas party outfits to make sure you’re never stuck when it comes to ideas on how to dress for a Christmas party.

There are plenty of Christmas party outfits to choose from – whether you’re able to see friends and loved ones this year, or you just want to make a small occasion at home more special…

What to wear to a Christmas party: What to consider

Before we get into lots of lovely Christmas party outfit inspiration, here are a few things to consider when choosing your party outfit this year.

How formal is your event?

What kind of party are you attending? Is it a laid back affair with friends and family, or a more formal event? Is there a dress code you need to adhere to?

Will your outfit choice make you feel confident?

Does you outfit make you feel good? A dress can be the most incredible designer creation, but if you don’t feel good in it, there’s no point in buying it.

Think about the parts of your body you are happy with and what you want to cover up.

For example, do you feel more confident in a dress with sleeves? Do you want a dress with ruching to hide your tummy? Are you happy to show off your legs, your shoulders or a little bit of your back?

Do you want to stand out or fit in?

What kind of impression do you want to create when you walk into the party? Do you want to fit in or stand out.

For example, there are likely to be a lot of little black dresses at any party.

Do you want to wear your own version, or would you like to wear something different in a bright color, or opt for a tuxedo suit, for example.

Christmas outfits inspiration

Hopefully that’s got you thinking about what you want to wear for the upcoming festive season.

Now, for some Christmas party outfit inspiration. Let me know in the comments at the bottom what Christmas party outfit you will be wearing.

Party dresses – outfit #1: Red

Red is a great color for women over 40. It is an especially popular option at holiday time, for obvious reasons.

When red is also a trend, as it is this season, it is even easier to find the right piece for the occasion.

Whatever type of coloring you have, there is a red that is right for you.

Check out this piece on the best color trends for fall 2023 for some stylish scarlet red looks. If you’re leaning more towards fuchsia or pink, then that will work too.

Red looks beautiful when worn with tan or with crisp winter white and black. Add some festive flair to your outfit by with some crystal embellishments, metallic accessories or faux fur.

Christmas party outfit: red dress | 40plusstyle.com

Theia Rayna One-Shoulder GownJ.Crew Maisie Ankle Strap HeelsJ.Crew Collection Santorini Feather BagJ.Crew Crystal Studded Huggie Hoop EarringsJ.Crew Crystal Dome Ring

For more ideas be sure to check out our article on stunning Christmas dresses.

Sylvia wears a burgundy party dress | 40plusstyle.com

Sylvia @sylviacolella above  (read her style interview here) chooses a red that leans towards purple for a lovely winter look.

Recreate her outfit with this similar dress (other options here and here), pumps and handbag.

Christmas party jumpsuits – inspiration #2: Jumpsuits

We know, there’s always the obvious issue with jumpsuits. But, so long as you make sure you can easily unfasten your own jumpsuit without help, you should be fine even when nature calls.

You could opt for a bright or sequin jumpsuit, or a classic neutral shade such as navy, which would look lovely teamed with metallics.

Another option is to choose a little black jumpsuit instead of a little black dress, and combine with crisp winter white. Jumpsuits can be equally as glamorous as a long dress.

We love the stylish, unusual black and white jumpsuit (below). Style with red accessories.

Christmas party outfit: jumpsuit | 40plusstyle.com

Elie Tahari Ellis Colorblocked JumpsuitDREAM PAIRS Block Heel PumpJ.Crew Satin Geneva BagJ.Crew Crystal Studded Huggie Hoop EarringsJ.Crew Crystal Dome Ring

Christmas party tops – outfit #3: Embellishment

A fun trend lately is pearls or crystals, embellishing everything from hats to gloves to shoes.

They’re also big on jeans. If you’re looking for a way to dress casually for a holiday event but still keep it festive, you could try pearl-embellished denim or a top with crystals worn with jeans or pants.

An outfit featuring a beautifully embellished top and jeans or pants could get your ready for a more casual get-together. Or choose a skirt for a more formal look. You could opt for a crystal-embellished blazer to dress up your jeans.

We love the embellished blazer (below), which will add a glamorous touch to anything in your closet.

Christmas party outfit: with embellishment | 40plusstyle.com

Cinq à Sept Cheyenne Crackle Embellished BlazerFrame Velvet TopAlice + Olivia Livi Embellished Satin Straight PantsJ.Crew Crystal Bow HeelsBrandon Blackwood Kendrick Crystal-Embellished Top Handle BagLauren Ralph Lauren Ball Drop Earrings

Nikki wears a sequin blazer and jeans | 40plusstyle.com

Nikki @40notfrumpy above chooses a crystal blazer with her jeans, and matches it to her shoes.

Steal her look with this similar blazer (other options here and here), top, jeans, and pumps.

Party dresses for women – outfit #4: A little black dress

A little black dress really is one of the hardest working items in your closet and should definitely be one of the wardrobe essentials you invest in.

A great little black dress can literally take you anywhere, and the great thing about it is you can change up your accessories year after year to make it look completely different each party season.

There is a reason black has remained a popular color for the evenings over the century. Darker colors are less memorable and so we can wear them much more frequently.

You can choose a dress which is flattering, yet understated and add interest with your outerwear, shoes and accessories.

Use your accessories to up your game. A statement necklace or earrings will add further glamour.

Christmas party outfit: a black dress | 40plusstyle.com

Ted Baker London Akane Draped Neck Satin Midi DressSIMKHAI Love Knot Strappy Slingback SandalJ.Crew Satin Geneva BagJ.Crew Crystal Studded Huggie Hoop EarringsJ.Crew Crystal Dome Ring

Christmas attire #5: Pastels

Wearing light pastels is an unusual and eye-catching approach to holiday dressing and can definitely be a talking point.

This season, pale pinks and lilacs are particularly in style. Wear with black or red to keep your outfit seasonally appropriate.

Adding a lighter party skirt gives you contrast and makes a statement.

Christmas party outfit idea: pastels | 40plusstyle.com

A.W.A.K.E. Mode Asymmetric Wool-Blend BlouseGRACE KARIN Pleated Chiffon Midi SkirtDREAM PAIRS Block Heel PumpJ.Crew Satin Geneva BagJ.Crew Crystal Studded Huggie Hoop EarringsJ.Crew Crystal Dome Ring

Patricia combines red and purple | 40plusstyle.com

Patricia @patriciaafricaiglesias (read her style interview here) above wears an eyecatching outfit of red and purple.

Check out this similar blouseblazerskirtsandalsclutchearrings and headband.

Christmas party attire #6: Velvet

Velvet is a sure bet for almost any holiday event, and it is particularly big right now, so it’s fairly easy to find something in velvet that is right for you.

Velvet can be extremely versatile. You can choose a velvet dress, top, or velvet pants like those in the outfit idea below.

Wearing velvet with jeans or wide-leg pants brings a luxe touch to a casual outfit. Wear velvet flared leg pants to update an exciting white top.

Christmas party outfit: velvet | 40plusstyle.com

SIMKHAI Alice Off-The-Shoulder TopAvenue Montaigne Bellini Velvet Flared PantsJ.Crew Crystal Bow HeelsBrandon Blackwood Kendrick Crystal-Embellished Top Handle BagNordstrom Dappled Crystal Square Drop Earrings

Christmas party outfit #7: Metallics

Christmas is often associated with sparkling lights and shiny baubles.

To make sure you don’t look like Christmas tinsel, opt for sophisticated metallic pieces which will not only add some shine to your outfit but also a touch of class.

Go bold with a metallic dress or skirt. Metallics could also provide you with the perfect way to update your little black dress. Simply pop a metallic bolero over the top and you are ready to go. Or, for a look that mixes casual and formal, you could wear a metallic skirt and sweater.

Christmas party outfit: wear metallics | 40plusstyle.com

Boden Sienna Silk ShirtA.L.C. Tori Faux Leather Pleated Asymmetric SkirtSIMKHAI Love Knot Strappy Slingback SandalTory Burch Kira Velvet Mini Crossbody BagNordstrom Dappled Crystal Square Drop Earrings

Yvonne wears a bronze top and cream skirt | 40plusstyle.com

Yvonne @funkyforty above (read her style interview here) chooses a bronze top with her cream satin skirt.

Get her look with this similar silk blouse (other options here and here), skirt, pumps, handbag, belt and necklace.

Party dresses for women – outfit #8: A LONG DRESS

Of course, if you want to up the glamour, then a long dress or gown will always make an extra-special statement. Perfect if your invitation says black tie.

The J.Crew maxi dress (below) comes in a choice of four colors.

Party dresses for women: a length maxi dress | 40plusstyle.com

J.Crew Maxi Slip DressSIMKHAI Love Knot Strappy Slingback SandalJ.Crew Gracie Croc Top Handle BagJ.Crew Spiral Collar NecklaceJ.Crew Spiral Hoop EarringsJ.Crew Sculptural Hinge Bracelet

Christmas party outfit #9: Lace

Another fabric, like velvet, which screams party, lace can be worn in a formal or casual way.

You could choose a lace dress for a formal party or dinner, or a lace top to wear with pants or jeans if you want a more casual look for a family lunch.

You could wear a lace cover-up over your sleeveless dress. Or wear a top or dress with lace sleeves – perfect if you prefer to cover your upper arms.

The red lace top (below) features lace detailing on the arms if you prefer just to add a touch of lace.

Christmas party outfit: lace top and pants | 40plusstyle.com

Generation Love Rachel Stretch-Silk Halter BlouseAlice + Olivia Livi Embellished Satin Straight PantsNaturalizer Havana Ballet FlatsBrandon Blackwood Kendrick Crystal-Embellished Top Handle BagLauren Ralph Lauren Ball Drop Earrings

A white lace suit for party season | 40plusstyle.com

Boma @mrs.gaf above chooses a lace suit for a perfect party look.

Steal her look with this similar lace jacket (other options here and here), pants (other options here and here), sandals and handbag.

Christmas party outfit #10: A menswear-inspired suit

You don’t have to wear a dress for the party season. A tuxedo or two-piece suit can make you stand out from the crowd. Opt for feminine accessories to combine masculine and feminine.

Christmas party outfit: menswear inspired suit | 40plusstyle.com

J.Crew Collection Tuxedo BlazerJ.Crew Tuxedo VestJ.Crew Collection Tuxedo PantJ.Crew Maisie Ankle Strap HeelsJ.Crew Gracie Croc Top Handle BagJ.Crew Spiral Collar NecklaceJ.Crew Spiral Hoop EarringsJ.Crew Sculptural Hinge Bracelet

Christmas party outfits #11: Sequins

Another shiny option for the festive season; anything with sequins always looks beautiful at Christmas time.

Sequin skirts and pants are particularly on trend and can be dressed up even more with a camisole top or silk shirt, or given a more casual vibe with a sweater.

One of our favorite looks at the moment is to wear a sequin skirt with a cozy sweater, or sequin pants and skirts with a blazer. Or, you could opt for full-on sequins with a sequin suit that you can also wear as separates or a sequin jumpsuit.

Christmas party outfit: wear sequins | 40plusstyle.com

J.Crew Collection Tuxedo BlazerBoden Sienna Silk ShirtTheory Sequin Midi SkirtNaturalizer Havana Ballet FlatsJ.Crew Collection Santorini Feather BagJ.Crew Spiral Collar NecklaceJ.Crew Spiral Hoop Earrings

Eileen wears a silver sequin dress | 40plusstyle.com

Eileen @eileenternullo above opts for a beautiful, ruched sequin dress.

Recreate her outfit with this similar sequin dress (other options here and here), pumps, clutch and necklace.

capsule wardrobe

Below, you can see some of the party outfit options from above together in one capsule. You can see you could mix and match the items to create lots of different looks during the festive season so you should never be short of inspiration when thinking about how to dress for a Christmas party.

For example, you could wear the lace top or any of the other bottoms featured. You could wear the silver top or embellished blazer with the green pants, or the green shoes with the gold jumpsuit.

A Christmas capsule wardrobe: party outfit ideas | 40plusstyle.com

shop the best pieces to wear for a christmas party:

Read our ultimate guide to creating a capsule wardrobe that works best for you.

Don’t forget

When it comes to putting together a party outfit, don’t forget that the little things can make a big difference. So be sure to accessorize.

New Year is just around the corner so you may want to check out our outfit ideas for NYE!

Accessories to wear to your Christmas party

Now is a time to be brave with your accessories.

You can wear the same dress that you have worn to half a dozen parties and make it look totally different with the accessories you choose.

How to dress for a Christmas party: what shoes to choose

Just as with your jewelry and accessories, your shoes can make or break an outfit when you are thinking about how to dress for a Christmas party.

This could be the time to wear heels, but if you find them uncomfortable, there are plenty of pretty flats to choose from.

Flats with a pointed toe or with embellishment will be particularly party-appropriate.

Take a look at our top picks of the best low heeled party shoes in stores now.

How to dress for a Christmas party: What will you wear over your party outfit

As well as your party dress, or outfit, you will likely want to wear a coat, jacket or wrap.

You could opt for a warm coat, depending on the time or year, a wrap or bolero, a faux fur jacket or a pashmina. Check all our tips in our article on how to cover up a formal outfit.

Do you know how to dress for a Christmas party? Have you planned your holiday party and Christmas outfits yet? 

Get lots more ideas for your Christmas party outfits this season:

  1. The best office (Christmas) party outfits
  2. The best outfits for the holidays
  3. The best Christmas day outfits
  4. The Best Casual Party Outfits That Still Make An Impact
  5. What to wear to a cocktail party
  6. How to cover up a formal outfit
  7. How To Choose The Perfect Little Black Dress For Your Body Type

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How to dress for a Christmas party | 40plusstyle.com

Feature image by Sylvia @sylviacolella

Sylvia

Sylvia is 40+style’s editor-in-chief and has been helping women find their unique style since 2011. An alumni of the School of Color and Design, she is devoted to empowering women of any age to look and feel their best. Read more about Sylvia and 40+style on this page.

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