The holidays are here, which means you may be hosting a holiday shindig. When I was a new mother and hosted my first family dinner, it didn’t take long to make my first fashion faux pas for I decided to cook while sporting a sequin top. Yup. Within the first hour I was a hot mess, hair sticking to my head, sweat pools everywhere. By the time our guests arrived the best way to describe my look was melted. Lesson learned.
This is why, whether you decide to prep/cook in your stylish duds or get ready minutes before the first guests arrive, the key to finding the perfect look is all in choosing simplicity without compromising on style.
Here’s what to wear to host a holiday party in style:
1. A loose blouse with rolled or three-quarter sleeves.
Piperlime – Cooper & Ella Esther Blouse
Target – 3/4 Sleeve Lace Trim Blouse – Pssst
A top that isn’t weighed down with embellishment and is loose enough that air is allowed in will help keep you from overheating while cooking in the kitchen. Avoid long sleeves for they may end up in the food you are preparing.
2. Shift or tunic style dresses.
Not only are these styles of dresses classics, but they also allow for mobility and can be dressed up or down. Throw on before your guests arrive, and when things calm down add a bit of shine such as a metallic swing jacket or a bejeweled cardigan.
3. Jeans with some stretch.
J.Crew – Lookout high-rise jean in Darci wash
My all time favorite piece to wear when playing hostess is my comfiest pair of jeans. I typically will wear jeans with a darker wash for they are not only slimming, but they also work in place of a dressier pant but with more movement. Also your world won’t shatter if a spot of food splashes on them.
4. Bring on the elastic.
Nordstrom – Donna Morgan Kimono Sleeve Crêpe de Chine Jumpsuit
On the rare occasion I am hosting a party that is a bit more chichi where jeans may be too casual, my second favorite piece is a jumpsuit. If the thought of a jumpsuit feels like too much work (bathroom breaks take a bit longer) then choose a billowy pant. Both these styles can be chosen with an elasticized (the ultimate in comfy) back or front that you can tie with a drawstring. Pair with wedge heels and some sparkly jewels, and you are set to go.
5. Accessorize, accessorize, accessorize.
Less is more when picking the right accessories for your look. Skip the cocktail rings if you will still be cooking when guests arrive. An embellished necklace and earrings make quite the statement and add some holiday bling.
Accessory Concierge = Queen of Versailles Statement Necklace
Accessory Concierge – Tessa Drop Earnings
More Holiday Fashion Ideas:
