17 Holiday Break Dress To Impress Outfit Ideas

The holiday season transforms every gathering into a runway opportunity, with 73% of people saying they put extra thought into their outfits during this festive time of year.

From office parties to family dinners, each event calls for its own perfect outfit—an ensemble that strikes the delicate balance between festive charm and practical comfort.

This article goes over 17 holiday break-inspired outfit ideas that will help you navigate the social calendar with confidence.

Best Outfit Ideas for Dress to Impress Holiday Break Theme

1. Classic Red and Black Ensemble

The red and black combo stands out at any holiday gathering. Start with a red velvet dress or red satin blouse paired with black trousers for a striking look.

A pencil skirt works beautifully as an alternative bottom piece. Add silver jewelry to finish the outfit—think sparkly earrings.

Even better, pick fitted pieces that show off your silhouette, and complete the look with a matching red lip color.

Pro Tip: Swap black trousers for leather pants to add an edgy vibe while maintaining the festive red-and-black theme.

2. Sparkly Sequin Jumpsuit

A shimmering sequin jumpsuit makes a bold statement at holiday gatherings. Pick metallic shades like gold for maximum impact, or try soft pastels for a subtle shine.

Match it with strappy heels for a polished party look. Add a thin belt at the waist to create shape, and keep your jewelry simple—the sequins do all the talking.

This outfit works perfectly for New Year’s celebrations or any festive night out.

Pro Tip: Style your jumpsuit with a cropped faux fur jacket to add dimension and extra glamour for chilly evenings.

3. Plaid Coat and Midi Dress

Bundle up in style by pairing a plaid coat with a midi dress for chilly holiday festivities. This combination is best for winter lunches or afternoon gatherings.

Pick a neutral-toned midi dress as your base, then top it with a plaid coat in rich seasonal colors. Add a soft wool scarf and ankle boots for extra warmth.

A wide-brimmed hat pulls the whole look together while keeping you cozy.

Pro Tip: Layer a turtleneck under the midi dress for a polished yet practical winter-friendly update.

4. Velvet Blazer and Leather Pants

Mix textures with a deep navy velvet blazer paired with sleek leather pants. Layer a silk blouse or cozy turtleneck underneath for added warmth and style.

This outfit works suits office parties or evening gatherings. Include pointed-toe heels and a metallic clutch to complete the look.

Pro Tip: Swap pointed-toe heels for block-heeled ankle boots to ensure both comfort and style for long events.

5. Festive Printed Dress

Show your holiday spirit with a cheerful printed dress featuring seasonal motifs. Get a dress with candy canes, snowflakes, or winter florals for a playful touch.

For casual gatherings, throw on a denim jacket. A colorful scarf adds extra flair while keeping you warm.

Skip heavy jewelry and opt for simple studs—the print takes center stage. Complete the look with comfortable ballet flats, great for moving from family brunch to evening parties.

Pro Tip: Pair the dress with semi-opaque tights in a coordinating shade to enhance the festive vibe while keeping warm. For extra style points, add a belt to cinch the waist and create an hourglass silhouette, even under outer layers.

6. Metallic Mini Skirt and Sweater

Mix cozy and glam by pairing a metallic mini skirt with a soft, chunky sweater. Match gold tones with a neutral-colored sweater in cream, gray, or black.

For a laid-back holiday look, add a crossbody bag. Top it off with a chic beret and simple hoop earrings.

This dress is for those looking for coffee dates or casual holiday gatherings with friends. It offers just the right balance of festive shine and comfort.

Pro Tip: To elongate your legs, pair the metallic skirt with skin-tone. You can also tuck the front of the sweater slightly into the skirt to define your waist and create a flattering silhouette.

7. Faux Fur Coat and Little Black Dress

A faux fur coat draped over a little black dress creates a timeless holiday look that turns heads. Pick a midi-length black dress as your base, then add a plush faux fur coat.

For evening events, slip on classic black pumps. A bright red clutch adds a festive touch to this winter ensemble.

This pairing is preferred in cocktail parties, theater outings, or upscale holiday gatherings.

Pro Tip: Add a brooch to the lapel of your faux fur coat to elevate the look with a personal, vintage-inspired touch. Choose a brooch with rhinestones to match the elegant feel of the outfit.

8. Plaid Skirt and Blouse

Put a fresh spin on traditional holiday style with a plaid skirt in rich burgundy. Pair it with a crisp white blouse that picks up one of the skirt’s accent colors.

Add knee-high boots and a statement necklace for extra flair. Want to stay warm? Layer with a thick cardigan in a complementary shade.

For a casual twist, roll up your blouse sleeves and add a leather crossbody bag.

Pro Tip: Opt for a blouse with subtle detailing, like ruffled cuffs, to add dimension to the outfit. For a polished winter finish, wear knee-high socks peeking just slightly above your boots.

9. Glittery Cocktail Dress

A shimmering cocktail dress brings instant glamour to holiday soirées. Pick jewel-toned sequins that catch the light with every move.

For a polished party look, pair with classic black pumps. Keep your jewelry minimal—a thin bracelet work best.

A sleek clutch let your dress take the spotlight. This style shines at formal holiday gatherings, New Year’s celebrations, or winter galas.

Pro Tip: Add a bold touch by layering a statement fur stole or faux fur shawl over your shoulders. This not only adds warmth but also enhances the luxurious feel of the look.

10. Satin Slip Dress and Blazer

A satin slip dress topped with a structured blazer creates a refined party look. Choose a slip dress in jewel tones like ruby for holiday flair, then add a fitted black blazer.

Strappy metallic heels bring the right amount of shine. Style your hair sleek and straight, add a bold red lip, and grab a small box clutch.

This mix of smooth satin and sharp tailoring performs in cocktail parties or fancy dinners.

Pro Tip: For a daring touch, wear a blazer with a cinched waist or belt to enhance your shape and add definition to the flowing silhouette of the satin dress. A metallic belt works well for evening gatherings.

11. Embellished Sweater and Jeans

A sparkly sweater paired with your favorite jeans creates a relaxed style. Pick a sweater with beading, sequins, or metallic threads for subtle holiday shimmer.

Dark wash jeans keep the look grounded. Add white sneakers for daytime outings or switch to ankle boots for evening plans. A crossbody bag in neutral leather works for both day and night.

Pro Tip: Roll the cuffs of your jeans and opt for heeled ankle boots for an elongating effect. For a finishing touch, layer a crisp collared shirt under the sweater for added sophistication and warmth.

12. Tulle Skirt and Crop Top

A tulle skirt paired with a fitted crop top creates a flirty holiday look. Pick a midi-length tulle skirt in soft pastels, then match it with a long-sleeve crop top to balance the volume.

For a casual party vibe, slip on metallic ballet flats and add a chunky knit cardigan. A simple pendant necklace finish the outfit perfectly.

Pro Tip: For added drama, layer the tulle skirt with an underlayer in a contrasting color or add a sash at the waist to enhance the romantic vibe. A touch of glitter spray on the skirt can add an extra festive glow.

13. Velvet Wide-Leg Pants and Blouse

Make a striking statement with rich velvet wide-leg pants in deep burgundy or navy. Match them with a flowing silk blouse for a mix of textures that catch the light.

Add height with block heels, and cinch your waist with a metal-buckle belt. A structured clutch brings polish to the look, while a chunky gold bracelet adds just enough sparkle.

Pro Tip: Pair the outfit with a cropped jacket or bolero in a complementary fabric for a layered look that doesn’t overwhelm your proportions. Choose one with subtle detailing like satin lapels.

14. Sequin Blazer and Tailored Trousers

A sequin blazer paired with crisp, tailored trousers creates a bold yet professional holiday look.

Pick silver sequin and match it with black trousers cut to perfection. Layer a simple black camisole or silk tank underneath to let the blazer take center stage.

Pro Tip: Accessorize with a single bold cocktail ring to keep the overall look balanced yet striking. Adding a wide cuff bracelet can also complement the blazer’s shine without being overpowering.

15. Lace Dress and Statement Coat

A lace dress topped with a bold statement coat creates a charming winter party look. Pick a knee-length lace dress in white, blush, or black as your base piece.

Add a brightly colored coat—we are talking about bright fuchsia or bold florals. Pink heels keep the look soft and feminine, while a metallic clutch brings a touch of shine.

Pro Tip: Pair this look with opera gloves for a high-fashion nod to vintage glamour. If gloves feel too formal, add embellished stockings for a festive twist.

16. Monochrome Suit in Bold Color

A single-color suit in bright red emerald creates an unforgettable holiday look. Pick a well-fitted blazer and matching pants in the same shade for a smooth, unbroken line.

Add white accessories to create sharp contrast—think patent leather pumps and a structured handbag.

Pro Tip: Add a bold statement necklace in a complementary tone to balance the outfit’s strong silhouette while keeping the look cohesive.

17. Embroidered Maxi Dress

A flowing maxi dress with intricate embroidery brings grace to formal holiday celebrations. Pick rich, festive colors like deep forest green adorned with metallic thread work.

Match with crystal stud earrings and a slim bracelet to highlight the dress’s detailed patterns.

Pro Tip: Highlight the dress’s elegance by pairing it with an embellished cape. Choose pointed-toe flats or heels with embroidery to tie the entire look together seamlessly.

Final Thoughts: Making an Impression

The perfect holiday outfit does more than just make you look good—it helps create memorable moments during this special season.

Mix and match these ideas to craft your own signature holiday look. After all, personal style is about making it uniquely yours!