Men’s Holiday Attire: Beyond the Festive Sweater
Written by Jae Curtis
Have you ever gotten an invite to a party where “holiday attire” is the requested dress code? Dress codes like this might leave you scratching your head and wondering if you’ve actually been invited to an ugly holiday sweater party instead. No, men’s holiday attire doesn’t immediately mean your best snowman sweater, but it usually refers to something fancier than your traditional party wear. Take into account the holiday season and the festive mood of the party. Suit up in your best party gear and you’ll look completely at home at your next holiday soiree.
Color Palette
One of the best ways to differentiate between your usual party duds and men’s holiday attire is by using a festive color palette. This doesn’t mean to dress head to toe in red and green, but pay special attention to the colors that you wear. Red is always associated with a holiday mood, so run with that. Pair a red button-up shirt with a brown corduroy or wool sports jacket. Combine this ensemble with a neutral pair of pants. Or, if you’re more into green, layer a green cashmere sweater, a patterned shirt, a tie, and a pair of gray pants to ring in the season without looking too kitschy.
Accessories
Something that makes an outfit more festive is using accessories that you don’t normally wear on a day-to-day basis. Take cuff links, for example. You may not have cause to wear them much at work or to other parties, so a holiday party is the perfect time to bust out that pair you’ve had forever. A flashy handkerchief tucked into your sports coat pocket can add more flair to your look. Some accessories you may want to avoid include holiday-themed ties and anything that couldn’t seriously be worn after the holidays.
Shoes
When you’re supposed to be wearing men’s holiday attire to a party, you’ll need your shoes to complete to outfit. Wear a pair of polished slip-ons for major comfort, style, and function as you’re making the rounds. A slightly more casual shoe is fine as long as it matches the rest of your outfit.
Loafers, moccasins, and chukka boots all work at a party, especially when you wear them with straight-cut slacks and your favorite sports coat. The Nowles Penny Loafer has both a polished and casual look, which is perfect for a holiday party, even if you have to take your shoes off at the door.
And, before I forget, leave the corny holiday socks at home.
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