Holiday Season What-to-Wear: Christmas Dinner with the Family.

For me, choosing an outfit for Christmas dinner is a little like choosing my outfit for Thanksgiving: I want to be polished, yet don’t want to sacrifice much on comfort. I also love the opportunity to dress up, and Christmas seems like the perfect time.

Whether you’re in a skirt+top combo or in a dress, you want to keep the look classic. Jewel tones are perfect here– bright and fun, but with a timeless appeal. Nothing too glittery, too trendy or too tight (you’re eating, after all). Some ideas to get you started:

1. Fossil Erika Cardigan ($64)
2. Burberry Scarf ($335)
3. Rick Owens Blister Biker Jacket ($1,970)
4. American Eagle Party Dress ($5)
5. Forever21 Satin Bow Headband ($2.50)
6. Betsey Johnson Lace Tights ($28)
7. Steve Madden Toppazz ($108)
8. Elizabeth and James Myra Suede flat ($168)

Okay, I know you’re looking at my list and rolling your eyes at the Rick Owens jacket for the price of a mortgage in some legit gated community. And possibly the Burberry cashmere (although I contend that every woman should own a Burberry scarf; they are heaven). But isn’t fantasy the point of a Christmas list? And anyway, these are just ideas to inspire you. No one I know (myself included) has the coin for an RO leather jacket.

The look here is layered cocktail… The dress is a true party dress (4), your gams will look amazing in a pair of lace tights (6) and you’ve got the heels to make your entrance. (Love these Steve Maddens (7) because the combo of black suede + ruffle detail is subdued yet festive.) You’re also cozy in a soft tunic-length cardigan (1) and have some chic flats (8) to slip into for maximum comfort during Christmas caroling. A satin headband (5) is easy (how very Blair Waldorf of you) and some simple jewelry is all you need. (I recommend doing family heirloom-y stuff here, like your mother’s earrings, your great grandmother’s pearls, etc.) Bundle up in a slouchy biker jacket (3) and cashmere scarf in a classic check (2) for the ride to and from Grandma’s house.

Every family is different, so if your Christmas (or Hanukkah) is less formal, feel free to substitute dark denim and a sleek turtleneck sweater for the above outfit. Perhaps:

I love this look- it’s sleek and on trend, but still effortless. And warm! You’ll be toasty in any of these cozy options. Pair with the easy flats listed above and you’re set.

What is your preferred Christmas outfit? Red and green taffeta or something a little more casual?

Happy Holidays!