A SEASON OF SNOW & STYLE

Inspired Looks For The Holidays

By Melanie Carden

As we head into the holiday season, I love to add a few special pieces to my wardrobe. There are so many holiday scenarios that require just the right look, so here’s a curated collection of real-life holiday outfits—from a night at the theater to meandering the Christmas tree farm and beyond!

COZY-CASUAL CHRISTMAS
With the many holiday obligations and soirees, the best gift is often a cozy-casual Christmas with immediate family. The toy soldier theme of this Boden fair isle sweater ushers in a festive look with little effort, especially when paired with relaxed, wide leg jeans. Just roll out of bed and put some cinnamon buns in the oven. Get the look: Edie Fair Isle Sweater, High Rise Wide Leg Jeans.
Info: bodenusa.com

HOLIDAYS AT THE LODGE
If you’re among those who escape to the mountains for the holidays, a hearty shawl collar cardigan and wide cuff jeans is a wintery must-have. The left image shows an Orvis barley-hued beauty with a fabulous fish motif on the back. As an alternative, pair a crisp, black gingham shirt and boiled cashmere cardigan. Get the look: Fish Shawl Cardigan, Ribbed Henley Long-Sleeved Tee, Kut from the Kloth® Sienna High-Rise Cuffed Wide-Leg Jeans, Sierra Brushed Button-Up Shirt, Boiled Cashmere Cardigan. Info: orvis.com

THE GREAT WHITE WAY
From The Nutcracker to the stage adaptation of Elf, theater brings extra magic to the holiday season. Mix and match these Anne Klein pieces for a chic, wintery white theater look. The long, tailored topper can be paired or worn on its own, and the sequin tee is the perfect last-minute sparkle for a last-minute invite. Get the look: Sequin Mesh Short Sleeve Tee, Cotton Double Weave Bowie Pant, Tweed Audrey Hepburn Topper. Info: anneklein.com

THE LBD
HOLIDAY EDITION

You likely have a go-to little black dress, but this White House Black Market LBD is a worthy upgrade with its flowy faux leather skirting. Add statement jewelry for big holiday vibes. Better yet, pair it with a bold sneaker and bright, sporty crossbody for the annual ladies’ night gift swap. Get the look: 3/4 Sleeve Faux Leather Dress.





Info: whitehouseblackmarket.com

STYLISH
HOLIDAY SHOPPING
Heading out for a day of holiday shopping? I love this layered Seasalt Cornwall ‘fit with all its green hues and texture. Under that stunning merino cardigan, the Fair Isle layer is a vest. So, you’ll likely be able to skip a coat and toggle between the layers as needed. Obviously, the beret is an absolute ‘yes’ for cute seasonal style. Get the look: Asphodel Cord Trousers, Dawson Pick Merino-rich Cardigan, Lemon Porch Fair Isle Knitted Vest, Sea Lane Longline Shirt, Bramble Jelly Beret. Info: seasaltcornwall.com

THANKSGIVING HOSTESS
STYLES

As the hostess, there are typically two approaches to Thanksgiving styles—casual all day or casual while cooking and then a quick change before guests arrives. I love these easy looks from Boden—both offer a “quick change” once the turkey and casseroles are in the oven. The dress offers breathable pointelle styling—great for warm kitchens, packed with friends and family. Get the look: Smocked Ruffle Blouse, Girlfriend Jeans, Frilled Pointelle Dress.
Info: bodenusa.com

FESTIVE BRUNCH
I love the color of this Scotch & Soda set, channeling a frosted winter berry ambiance. Brunch is generally a lingering sort of meal, and the holiday edition is no exception. This super comfortable velvet look has cute lace-trimmed pants and robe-jacket styling—perfect for a festive restaurant brunch or next to the fireplace, at a friend’s home. Get the look: Lace Trimmed Velvet Pyjama Blazer, Lace Trimmed Velvet Pant.
Info: scotchandsoda.com

THE FESTIVAL
OF LIGHTS SPARKLES

The festival of lights just got a little brighter. This is a fantastic piece from DH New York—a one-piece dress with a casual elegance. The satin slip dress design gives a bit of sheen and glam but well balanced with the coziness of a cashmere sweater. I’d also wear this look—with a tall boot. Get the look: Kaz Sweater/Dress Combo. Info: dhnewyork.com

AT CHRISTMAS TREE FARM
One of the highlights of the Christmas season is getting the tree—whether at a tree farm or local shop. Sip hot chocolate and search for the perfect tree, wreaths, and greenery to make the season extra special. Orvis pretty much nailed it with this cozy flannel and shirt jacket combo—it’s got that too cool to care vibe, even though it’s meticulously styled. Get the look: Classic Quilted Shirt Jacket, Lodge Flannel Shirt, Exclusive Kut From The Kloth® Naomi High-Rise Chinos, Upland Donegal Knit Beanie. Info: orvis.com

FULL GLAM NYE
If you’re going full glam this New Year’s Eve, the rentables at elysewalker are the way to go. Rent styles from luxury brands like Gucci, Chloé, and Miu Miu—all at a fraction of what it would cost to own. The website offers client services as well. If you need inspiration or help sourcing a specific look, they’ll reply within an hour. Get the look: LAPOINTE Satin Asymmetrical Maxi Skirt. Info: elysewalker.com