The holiday festivities have officially begun and that can only mean one thing – holiday party outfits. I don’t know about you girls but my social calendar is brimming to the top with dinners, family gatherings and so much more. Dressing for the occasion always gets me excited for the season. But I know how stressful it can be when you have tons of other things on your to-do list. So, I wanted to share a comprehensive guide to showstopping looks whether you’re heading to a last minute outing or planning ahead for New Year’s Eve.

Express Sequin Blazer (wearing an XXS) | Express Faux Leather Pants (wearing a 0) | Express Rhinestone Embellished Heels (similar here) | Express Rhinestone Handbag | Express Crystal Drop Earrings | Saint Laurent Shield Sunglasses (better for budget here)

Sequin Separates

It’s impossible to get through the holiday season without a sequin look! Although intimidating, there are endless ways to style them. I love the idea of sequin pants with a blazer or a basic sweater with a sequin skirt. You just need a pair of heels and you’re all set.

Express Bow Embellished Sweater (wearing an XS) | Express Bow Earrings (similar here) | Express Faux Leather Pants (wearing a 0) | Express Rhinestone Handbag | Saint Laurent Shield Sunglasses (better for budget here)

Festive Sweater

Not all holiday events call for glitz and glam. A fun sweater adorned with rhinestones or in a festive color is sufficient to level up your favorite jeans. I rounded up some options that will take you through the end of the year.

ALC Cutout Dress (wearing a 0) | Cult Gaia Clutch | Similar Crystal Drop Earrings | Celine Edge Sunglasses (similar here, better for budget here)

Cocktail Dress

Nothing rings in the party season like a jaw-dropping cocktail dress! Everything from metallic fabrics to velvet textures is sure to usher you into the spotlight. Take your pick and wear it to any formal party, then take it out for another spin on New Year’s Eve.

Karen Millen Faux Shearling Coat | Karen Millen Off The Shoulder Sweater Dress | Karen Millen Slouchy Boots | Fendi Sunshine Tote (large size) | Bottega Veneta Sunglasses (better for budget here)

Sweater Dress

As far as casual dress options go, nothing beats a cozy sweater dress. They’re universally flattering and pretty much fail proof when you need to look pulled together in a pinch. Not only that but they just as good with heels as they do with boots, so you can piece together an outfit with no effort.

Express Red Coat (wearing an XS) | Express Red Sweater Dress (wearing an XS, also love this one) | Bottega Veneta Sunglasses (better for budget here) | Bottega Veneta Chain Cassette Bag | Christian Louboutin White Pumps (similar here, better for budget here)

Outerwear

Dressing to the nines when it’s cold outside is hard enough as it is – but trying to pick the right coat to tie everything together serves up another set of issues. I recommend playing it safe with a tailored coat, feminine blazer or a faux fur outer layer.

Express One Shoulder Sequin Top (wearing an XS) | Express Sequin Midi Skirt (wearing an XS) | Express Rhinestone Heels | Express Rhinestone Handbag | Express Crystal Drop Earrings

Glam Heels

2022 is all about glamorous heels – think rhinestone embellishments, bow details, and metallic finishes. I’m here for the Cinderella vibes! Below, you’ll find several options at reasonable price points.

WHBM Sequin Top | WHBM Black Trousers | WHBM Rhinestone Clutch | WHBM Embellished Heels | Saint Laurent Shield Sunglasses (better for budget here)

Embellished Handbag

Shoes aren’t the only thing getting the glam treatment. Crystal mesh bags are all the rage lately and I love how seamlessly they tie into the holiday season. The good news is you don’t have to blow your budget to get the designer look.

L’Agence Cutout Top (wearing an XS) | Commando Patent Leather Leggings (wearing a S) | Shashi Crystal Drop Earrings

Statement Earrings

There’s only one last thing you need when heading out to the holiday circuit, and that’s a pair of statement earrings. My jewelry style tends to be minimal but that changes entirely when December rolls around. I love a crystal fringe moment that makes an outfit pop!

xo, Maria

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