The holidays are coming and you probably want to look good without losing your mind in the process. The good news is stores like Amazon, Lulus, and Nordstrom are actually carrying some seriously cute stuff right now! I went through what felt like a million options and found the pieces that look good and are worth your money.
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Sequin Dresses
If you want to make an entrance, sequin dresses are a must! These aren’t just for New Year’s Eve, they work for any holiday party where you want to feel like the main character.
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Lulus has some gorgeous sequin options that don’t feel cheap or overly costume-y. Their midi sequin dresses are perfect if you want shimmer without showing everything, and the fit is usually really flattering. Amazon’s got a ton of sequin dresses too, and honestly, some of them are surprisingly good quality for the price! You just have to be willing to scroll through some questionable options to find the gems. Nordstrom carries higher-end sequin dresses if you’re willing to spend a bit more and want something that’ll last beyond this season.
The key with sequins is to go for dresses that have a structured silhouette so you don’t feel like you’re drowning in sparkles.
Velvet Dresses
Velvet is the move if you want to feel luxe without trying too hard. It’s giving elegance and sophistication!
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Lulus nails the velvet dress game. They have everything from deep jewel tones to classic black, and the fabric quality is nice. Amazon’s velvet selection is hit or miss, but when you find a good one, it’s hard to beat the price. Nordstrom has the high-end options.
Pro tip: velvet dresses in emerald green, burgundy, or deep navy are basically impossible to mess up. And if you’re nervous about the whole “velvet shows every bump” thing, just go for a slightly looser fit. You’ll still look amazing, and you won’t spend the whole party sucking in your stomach.
Sweater Dresses
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Sometimes you just want to wear something cozy and not think about it too hard. Sweater dresses are the answer, especially the kind that somehow manages to be both comfortable and cute!
Lulus has sweater dresses that look way more expensive than they are. The quality is solid and they don’t pill after one wear, which is honestly what you’re really paying for. Amazon has tons of options in every color and style imaginable. Nordstrom carries designer sweater dresses that are investment pieces, they’ll look good for years.
The secret to making a sweater dress feel fancy for the holidays is styling. Throw on some statement earrings, do something with your hair, add some heels or boots, and suddenly you look intentional instead of like you just grabbed whatever was clean. Pair it with tights and a belt, and you’re golden!
Additional Dresses & Rompers
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Sometimes you just want a solid dress that does the job without being super embellished or heavy. These are the pieces that get worn more than once.
All three stores have solid options here. Look for wrap dresses, fit-and-flare silhouettes, or simple slip dresses that you can dress up or down depending on the occasion. The benefit of going with a simpler dress is that you can rewear it without people thinking it’s the same outfit. Bonus: your wallet will thank you.
And although rompers get a bad rep, the right one is actually perfect for the holidays! They’re fun, different, and they still feel put-together. The trick is finding one with enough structure that you don’t feel like you’re wearing a onesie. Look for ones with tailoring in the waist, interesting necklines, or fun details like ruching or open backs.
Holiday Tops
Not everyone wants to wear a dress. Valid! Here are some super cute holiday tops!
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Blazers are having a moment, and for good reason. They make you look put-together instantly. A metallic blazer or one in a jewel tone feels holiday-appropriate without being too much. I also love velvet blazers.
Off-the-shoulder sweaters are cozy and flirty at the same time! They look amazing with jeans or a skirt.
I also love lace tops for the holidays. These look incredible tucked into a skirt or over a slip dress.
Satin blouses are honestly underrated. They catch the light in a way that makes you look a little fancier, and they pair with pretty much anything.
Overall, the holidays don’t require you to spend a ton of money or stress yourself out. Pick one or two pieces that actually make you feel good, style them well, and call it a day! I hope you found these options helpful!