Holiday Style Starts Now: Easy Ways I Make Everyday Outfits Feel Festive
Before the shopping frenzy begins, I love using this quieter window to get my style ready for the holidays. Not by buying a bunch of new things — but by looking at what I already own and finding simple ways to make it feel a little more festive.
If you’re already juggling a million things (same), the easiest place to start is with your everyday pieces. Sweaters, denim, a great boot… these are the heroes that carry you from school pickup to the office to a holiday get-together without needing a full outfit change.
Here’s how I’m turning my basics into holiday-ready looks right now.
Start With the Pieces You Already Love
I promise — you don’t need a completely new wardrobe for the holiday season.
My go-tos are always:
A cozy or structured sweater
My favorite jeans
A fun boot, sneaker, or flat
These basics are the foundation. Then all I do is add one thing that feels a little “holiday.”
Add One Statement That Says “Festive”
You truly only need one sparkly or bold element to shift the whole vibe.
Some of my favorites this time of year:
✨ A sparkly earring
✨ A velvet or embellished headband
✨ A bold red lip
✨ A metallic clutch
✨ A sequin tee layered under a blazer or a crisp button-down
Just one of these instantly elevates the outfit without taking it over the top.
Let’s Talk Sequins
Sequins used to be reserved for New Year’s Eve, but not anymore. The materials are so much softer and more wearable now — some tops feel as easy as a sweatshirt.
My favorite ways to wear sequins casually:
A sequin tee with jeans and a great coat
A sequin tank layered under a button-down
Something subtle like sequin detail on a shoe or bag
It still feels playful and special, but wearable for everyday things like errands, lunches, or a casual holiday get-together.
Office → Holiday Dinner in Two Minutes
This is my favorite “I don’t have time to fully change but I still want to look festive” trick.
Start the day in dark denim or trousers + a simple knit top
After work, swap your shoes for a fun boot or pointy flat
Add a statement earring or red lip
Throw on a blazer or long coat
That’s it. Suddenly you’re polished and party-ready.
Casual → Polished Without the Stress
A lot of us are running from one thing to the next this time of year, so I like to keep it simple.
My formula:
Sweater + Jeans + Elevated Shoe + One Festive Finishing Touch
Again — that touch can be as small as a headband or a pair of sparkly hoops.
A Little Reminder From Me
You don’t need to overhaul your closet to feel great during the holidays. Most of the magic comes from layering in thoughtful, playful details onto the pieces you already love.
And if you want help putting outfits together for upcoming celebrations or photos, I’m always here. Styling should feel fun — especially this time of year.
— Annie