How to Dress for the Holidays Without Looking Like Grandma

Drop that snowflake-embroidered sweater and back away slowly

Christmas may still be a month away, but the holiday themed parties have already begun and the last thing I want is to show up looking like I’m going to an “Ugly Christmas Sweater” soirée (unless, of course, I am). I’ve learned it’s best to plan my outfits in advance and make purchases accordingly so I don’t end up ransacking my closet at the last minute for every piece of red and green because, more often than not, I’ll wind up looking like an elf. After much trial and error over the years, I’ve come up with some sure-fire tips for dressing for the holidays without looking like Santa Claus or grandma.

A gold sweater and oxblood skirt embrace holiday colours while still looking sophisticated. Image via Joanne on Lookbook.
Go for Blood

Oxblood is the colour of fall, hands-down. Instead of dressing in Santa’s suit red, choose an oxblood piece to channel the colour of Christmas.

I’d avoid the flower crown, but a velvet skirt and cozy sweater make a great holiday pairing. Image via Anna on Loobkook.

Velvet with Caution

Velvet is a cozy winter material that can quickly turn a fun outfit into children’s clothing.  Green seems to be the best colour choice for this fabric as red velvet is associated with Saint Nick and black velvet looks very Elvira.

Image via Oriana on Loobkook.

Never Pair Red with Green

Wearing the two colours of Christmas at once will guarantee elf status–it’s unavoidable. Prove me wrong, but I have yet to see a red and green outfit that doesn’t look worthy of Santa’s workshop. It’s best to choose one or the other for your holiday outfit.

Emma Watson in Balmain gold brocade Fall 2010. Image via Mariano Vivanco

Ditch the Snowflakes

Please, please, please get rid of those snowflake-embroidered sweaters. If you’re dying to wear a print, choose brocade. Luxury prints are in this season and by choosing a gold brocade print with a good cut, you can avoid looking like grandma and stills stand out at a holiday bash.

Blake Lively looks holiday ready in a gold leather Gucci skirt at Sprinkles Cupcakes.

Bold in Gold

Very rarely can anyone get away with wearing gold lamé and heavy metallic accents, so I’d take full advantage of this season’s gaudy trend with a stand-out gold skirt or lavish gold jewelry.

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Mollie Paige writes for the Toronto Standard. You can follow her on twitter @MolliePB

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