Festive Frocks for This Holiday Season

With the holiday season officially upon us, it’s time to restock your wardrobe with dresses fit for any holiday event. From winter formals to dinners with family, here are five new trends that make for the perfect festive frock:

Needle & Thread

New Look ($31), River Island ($110), French Connection ($258)

If you’re looking for a more relaxed look for the holidays, embroidered dresses are flooding the fashion scene due to their intricate and delicate thread work. This pinstripe dress with floral detailing is the perfect example of how embroidery can add a touch of femininity to any outfit. Even with a more simple silhouette, patchwork can add an interesting conversation started to your outfit. For fancier options, look for floral embroidery on top of black like this mesh dress or this maxi.

Velvet Trendsetter

Topshop ($110), the Reformation ($278), Nasty Gal ($78)

Velvet is everywhere as this fall’s coolest, most ubiquitous trend. This smooth material has made its way into all apparel from bomber jackets to thigh-high boots. Velvet dresses are perfect for any holiday occasion, particularly deep jewel tones like darker reds, emeralds, and vibrant blues. For inspiration, look to Topshop, the Reformation, and Nasty Gal.

Slip It On

River Island ($64), River Island ($70), Forever 21 ($58)

Originally made to be worn under dresses, slips are widely worn today as a part of the underwear-as-outerwear trend. Satin slip dresses are sexy and delicate, perfect for fancier winter event. Some might find them a little scandalous, but never fear: slips are perfect for layering, making them extremely versatile. Add a thick cardigan on top this lacy number or a cute t-shirt underneath this River Island dress, and you’ll have created more more modest look.

Get Your Shine On

ZARA ($20), Anthropologie ($248), River Island ($64)

This winter, trade in your sequins and glitter for metallic dresses. Sophisticated, modern, and chic, metallic dresses can be seen everywhere on the red carpet and runway. Pick a dress with a metallic sheen like these from ZARA, Anthropologie, and River Island —  and you’ll be sure to be a walking show-stopper.

Sweater Weather

ASOS ($58), Lulus ($99), SheIn ($22)

Finally, whenever you’re in doubt, nothing screams holiday like a sweater dress. If you’re looking for the classic cable knit, this ASOS  dress is both affordable and stylish. However, sweater dresses can be surprising as well. Simply look for tricolor fun tricolor blocks, interesting cutouts, or ruffled sleeves for an additional festive flair. Sweater dresses with turtlenecks or cowl necks can also keep you warm throughout the winter without sacrificing your style.

—Airika Yee

Images courtesy of: Anthropologie, ASOS, Forever 21, French Connection, Lulus, Nasty Gal, the Reformation, River Island, SheIn, Topshop, ZARA