This article is originally from a weekly addition of The Racquet, UW-La Crosse, Wisconsin's student newspaper. Being that it is a publication instead of a personal blog post, it presents my ability to always keep in mind my audience - more broad than the blog-type setting,
and write for that new group.
The snow may not have found us yet, but believe it or not the holiday season and winter break are right around the corner! Whether you light the menorah or kinara for Hanukah or Kwanza, put up a Christmas tree, or bring out the Festivus pole, the holiday season is all about getting together with the ones you love. It’s a time of year filled with celebrations and get-togethers galore. So what should you wear to these events? The answer can vary quite a bit based on the actual theme and attendants of these events.
When it comes to small, close family events in your own home, you’ve probably got enough years under your belt to know what to expect! Some families prefer to wear normal day attire, while others opt to dress up for the holiday occasions. You know your family best, and if you still are unsure of how to dress, just to ask in this scenario!
Larger family get-togethers can also vary family to family. If you’ll be seeing particular family members who you rarely see throughout the year, it’s a nice gesture to dress up a bit. It’s not everyday you see this person, so why not celebrate by showing them what you’ve got style-wise! Ladies, if the majority of your family dresses casual, an easy way to add a touch of dressiness could be to add a nice formal top to some jeans. Complete the look with a sweater and flats, both of the same color. Accessorize with either a lightweight scarf, or a matching headband. Guys, it’s as simple as wearing a nice pair of slacks, or keeping the jeans and adding a button-up shirt. For shoes, go for a boot or loafer. But boys and girls, if you’ll be wearing jeans this holiday season, just make sure they are in good condition! That means no holes, rips, splatters, etc. (Yes…even if they were created that way.)
Maybe your family is the group that believes in the term “dress to impress”? In this case ladies, your go-to item would be a dress. Anytime before New Years Eve, try to keep the bling to a minimum. You’re still more than welcome to wear some sparkle, but don’t show up to a family holiday party looking like a disco ball. Opt for a plain colored dress and leggings or colored tights. Popular dress colors this holiday season include silver, black, red, and white. Finish the ensemble with a cardigan or blazer on top, and boots or flats on bottom. Guys, wear a nice pair of solid colored dress pants and a button up top. Feeling especially festive? Add a blazer or sweater vest to your outfit! Loafers are the perfect shoes to add to this dressy look.
When it comes to the holiday season and family gatherings, it’s all about being prepared. Most importantly, knowing what to expect. Will this get-together be casual and comfy, or have a ritzy vibe to it? If you’re not sure, don’t hesitate to ask the host and/or your own family members! One rule of thumb for ladies when in family settings is to cover yourself up! Test your outfit before the event by trying it on and walking around in it for a few minutes. Sit down to make sure everything stays where it should and feels comfortable because holiday parties can be quite lengthy!
Happy Holidays and as always, Happy Shopping!