Stylish Dinner Outfits for Holiday Parties & Hosting

The holidays are here, and so are the endless reasons to gather.

bayside blue halter dress as seen on bela carfer sipping on a drink for holiday

To nobodyā€™s surprise, the holiday season brings a flurry of party invitations and hosting opportunities. With that comes many dinner outfits to plan. Whether youā€™re planning an intimate dinner with friends at home or attending a white elephant party or year-end event for work, the question always lingers: what do I wear?


Your outfits for holiday events should add that special touchā€”a little sparkle to make the moment as joyful as the celebration itself. Since you landed on this post, I know your wheels are spinning, which leads me to believe youā€™re planning ahead (kudos to you). So, if you want to make a lasting impression, whether as a warm and welcoming host or a standout guest, this post addresses both. Here are curated, stylish dinner outfits from ViX to help you shine at any festive gathering.

Bella Carfer in a white eyelet dress on the beach, one of many outfits for holiday vacations
bella carfer wearing a summerwine red coverup on the beach from ViX, one of many outfits for holiday vacation

What to Wear: Outfits for Holiday Hosting

A Friendsgiving Feast


Friendsgiving is all about celebrating with your chosen family. So what do you wear? For the host, the holiday outfit you choose should feel just as carefree as the evening. Think comfortable yet polished; business casual is usually a safe bet. Whether itā€™s cute matching sets or jumpsuits, choose something you can wear with ease while refilling drinks, plating sides, and maybe sneaking a selfie with your perfectly styled tablescape. As the host for a Friendsgiving, the goal with your outfits for holiday is to move seamlessly from greeting guests to pouring the champagne. And it just so happens we have a few holiday outfits that fit the bill.Ā 

An Elegant Holiday Dinner


So, youā€™re hosting an upscale dinner? Youā€™ve got the candlelight, the decor, the perfectly plated dishes, now itā€™s time to bring your A-game. As the host, your elegant outfits for holiday dinners should set the toneā€”sophisticated, timeless, and, maybe, just a little extra. Go for something like a sleek dress paired with statement jewelry and comfortable shoes that will keep you looking put-together all evening. Pro tip: choose pieces that feel special and unique, like something from ViX that brings an air of effortless elegance to the party. Prepare yourself for endless compliments.Ā 

A White Elephant Party


This is a fun one. White Elephant parties are unpredictable (just like the gifts), so your outfit can be flexible, too. Whether youā€™re going full cozy vibes with elevated loungewear or stepping it up with festive evening wear, itā€™s up to you. My recommendation? Opt for a standout ViX piece as one of your go-to outfits for holiday ā€“ the perfect mix of dressed-up and relaxed, so you can laugh through gift-swapping chaos while looking like you planned it all (even if you didnā€™t).

A Hot Cocoa & Smores NightĀ 


Hosting this type of a holiday party really can mean anything. Whether itā€™s a cozy night around the fire or a DIY holiday craft party, this type of gathering leans more casual. The key is comfortā€”think low-key, cozy, and activity-friendly outfits for holiday fun. Maybe youā€™re decorating the tree or roasting marshmallows? Nevertheless, youā€™ll want an outfit that works indoors and out. A relaxed knit dress with boots or a comfy knit top paired with wide-leg pants keeps things stylish without trying too hard. Bonus points if you add a cute long cardigan for layering.

Hosting during the holidays should be fun, not fussy. No matter what youā€™re doing, these outfits for holiday events are here to help you feel as good as you look.

What to Wear: Dinner Outfits for Attending Holiday Parties

An Office Holiday Party


The trick with office holiday parties? Festive, but not over the top. Keep dinner outfits professional. A polished dress or a jumpsuit underneath a blazer is always a safe betā€”something elevated but not too showy. Add a touch of sparkle with statement jewelry or metallic heels to bring just the right amount of cheer. Youā€™ll look put-together but still ready to toast with coworkers.Ā 

A Holiday-Themed Brunch


Holiday brunches are obviously not dinners but they are common enough that Iā€™m going to throw it in here. Holiday brunches call for outfits that are equal parts chic and laid-back. Think breezy dresses or matching setsā€”pieces that feel complete without looking like you tried too hard. Pair with sandals or flats for comfort, and throw on a cozy layer for those crisp holiday mornings.

A Charity or Giving Party


These gatherings often lean toward understated elegance. Opt for dinner outfits like a classic dress or sleek pants paired with a tailored blouse. Keep accessories minimal but intentional and meaningfulā€”like gold hoops or a simple bracelet. Itā€™s all about striking a balance between looking polished and reflecting the purpose of the event.

A New Yearā€™s Eve Bash


If thereā€™s one night to go all out with your outfits for holiday, itā€™s New Yearā€™s Eve. Whether youā€™re heading to a glamorous party or ringing in the new year at a small gathering, your outfit should shine. Metallics, sequins, or a bold jumpsuit are always a win. Add strappy sandals and a statement clutch to complete the lookā€”youā€™ll be ready to count down in style.

When it comes to attending holiday parties, itā€™s less about following rules and more about dressing for the moment. Whether youā€™re mingling with coworkers, sipping mimosas, or dancing into the new year, the right outfits for the holiday will help you celebrate in the best ways possible.


Planning to escape the chill or visit loved ones this season? Discover Ā holiday travel outfitsĀ  that blend style and versatility.

Danielle Gumina Senior Creative Copywriter

About the Author

Danielle Gumina is a Senior Creative Copywriter at ViX, known for her editorial expertise and engaging storytelling. With a keen eye for trends, a passion for travel, and an appreciation for timeless style, she brings fashion narratives to life. Danielle resides in San Diego, CAĀ curating her ever-expanding collection of ViX pieces.