Holiday Elegance: From Cozy Knits to Black Tie
Whether it’s a relaxed family gathering, an office celebration, an upscale black-tie event, or a Christmas evening dinner with your dearest ones, dressing well can set the tone for the occasion. But finding the right balance between comfort, formality, and personality isn’t always simple. Whatever I do, the magic moments deserves a magic piece of clothing.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through my favorite three levels of holiday dressing—from cozy knitwear to polished or rugged blazers and decadent evening wear—helping you dress your sharpest for every celebration.
Casual Festive Look: Knitwear Done Right
For a relaxed yet thoughtful holiday outfit, focus on the perfect combination of tailored trousers or chinos paired with cozy knitwear. Start with a simple base, such as a white OCBD shirt or even a crewneck t-shirt, and layer it with a standout piece like a Fair Isle sweater or a buttoned cardigan. The charm lies in the details—textures, patterns, and warm tones that embody the festive spirit. This level is ideal for family gatherings or laid-back celebrations where comfort meets style.
Inspiration may be anywhere - J.Crew knit or RL knit here or here. New & Lingwood have some nicely muted color here. Something with structure like flannel shirt or workshirt may work as well, such as this RL look. Of course, Jamieson’s have a beautiful range of Shetland wool sweaters also in fair isle knit (more color options on website) and Barbour have this beauty in offer.
By the way, this looks also work when you do interesting trousers - tartan trousers and plain wool knit. Like this RL or you may complement distinctive trousers with shawl collar cardigan, which again express quite festive atmosphere in my opinion. Mine is here (trousers are not really festive here) and you can buy my favorite Colhay’s here. Drake’s, Permanent Style or more have great shawl collar cardigans in offer as well….
Smart Holiday Tailoring: Checked jacket
When the occasion calls for something a bit more polished, a well-tailored blazer is your go-to. Opt for seasonal fabrics like velvet, tweed, or wool, and consider patterns such as checks or tartan to bring a festive touch. Pair it with a turtleneck or a crisp shirt to keep the look versatile yet sharp. Finish with tailored trousers and leather loafers or boots. This approach strikes the perfect balance between formal and relaxed, making it ideal for dinner parties or holiday office gatherings.
Above look from Ralph Lauren embodies everything I mentioned. For example I like also this jacket by RL, this Berg & Berg jacket being festive while still very versatile throughout the whole year. Available in multiple colors. I also really love this jacket by New & Lingwood, especially how the green lines works impeccably with neutral flannels.
Formal Elegance: Black Tie with Festive Flair
For the most elegant celebrations, step into true holiday sophistication with black tie or a creative variation of it. A classic smoking jacket or dinner jacket, single-breasted in black or velvet, delivers timeless appeal. For a bolder take, try a tartan jacket with peak or shawl lapels, paired with tailored trousers and velvet slippers. These ensembles make a striking statement while adhering to formal dress codes, perfect for upscale holiday events or New Year’s Eve galas. Or do it in reverse and wear plain jacket with tartan trousers, like I will, this Christmas.
My favourite variation not only for Christmas dinner - balls, evenings out and much more. Velvet jackets looks outstanding with soft and thin rollneck. Anyway, here are my tips to inspire you: This Walker Slater is very traditional. Some New & Lingwood festive tastes can be found here and here. Maxmillian Mogg rather conservative while decadent full black tie look. RL obviously cannot be missed on this list with some velvet poetry although I think velvet might look better single breasted like this Suitsupply available at more convenient price point in multiple colors or for example cream jacket is not bad idea either. Another part of this dress code might be shoes as Belgian loafers (example), velvet slippers (here example) or Piedaterre Venezia venetian slippers.
Let me know all your favourite combinations. Lower I include some looks that I find festive and nicely done!
Wish you all amazing Christmas!
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