Casual-to-Formal Looks for Your Next Holiday Party

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When it comes to holiday party looks, the dress code can be all over the map. But don’t worry—we’ve got your outfits handled. Whether it’s a low-key occasion with friends, an office party, or a formal black-tie event, choosing the right outfit is key to enjoying your celebrations in style. Here are four men’s holiday party outfit ideas that are suited to all holiday festivities on your calendar.

1. Casual Gatherings with Friends

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Whether you’re hosting or attending a casual holiday gathering, aim for an elevated, casual look. A long-sleeve plaid or flannel shirt paired with jeans is a solid choice. Plaid shirts, especially in festive colors like red or green, capture the spirit of the season. Of course, you can go with a simple long-sleeve tee and throw on a comfy cozy knit sweater for added warmth and style.

When it comes to layering, you’ve got options. A cardigan creates an extra layer of coziness and makes for a casual-yet-polished men’s holiday party outfit idea. Feel free to incorporate details that are unique to your personal style, such as a beanie or a scarf if it’s especially chilly out.

For a smart-casual holiday look, pair a cozy turtleneck sweater with chinos and a blazer. This outfit strikes a perfect balance between comfort and style. A well-fitted crewneck sweatshirt can also work beautifully here. Try layering it over a collared shirt for added polish. The secret to nailing business casual during the holidays is mixing relaxed pieces with more refined elements.

Finally, don’t forget the smaller details. For shoes, you can’t go wrong with a pair of relaxed loafers or casual boots. And, if you want that extra special touch, consider a spritz or two of Calvin Klein’s CK One cologne. This balanced scent features notes of pineapple and mandarin orange that pair well with a laid-back holiday vibe.

2. Best Dressed at the Office Party

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Show your coworkers the best version of yourself outside of the office with a best-dressed look. We’ve laid out some men’s holiday party outfit ideas for work gatherings that blend professionalism with a dash of festive flair. Start with a sweater—or a button-down dress shirt—and pair it with dark-wash jeans for a more relaxed feel, or dress pants if the occasion calls for it. Oxford shoes or leather boots complete the look, making you effortlessly stylish and comfortable.

When considering office fashion attire, remember that versatility is vital. A burgundy sport coat paired with black dress shoes creates a sophisticated look that suits various dress codes. Or try combining a patterned jacket with dark chinos. With this approach, you can move seamlessly (and comfortably) from the workday to evening festivities.

Aiming for an extra level of sophistication? Add a sport coat to elevate your outfit. We love a corduroy sport coat that will keep you warm in the cooler months but that will instantly level up your outfit. To put a cheerful twist on your ensemble, pull on these holiday print socks in festive designs or colors. It’s a fun way to look festive without being over the top.

Lastly, the fragrance you wear matters—especially in close quarters with your co-workers. A couple of spritzes of Versace’s Dylan Blue can go a long way. This cologne’s blend of bergamot and grapefruit offers a distinct-yet-sophisticated aroma that pairs well with a festive office party.

3. Formal Holiday Celebrations

Featured: Calvin Klein Wool Slim Fit Tuxedo Jacket When the invite says “black tie,” it’s an opportunity to pull out all the stops. The foundation for men’s holiday party outfit ideas at this type of event is pretty standard: think suits, tuxedos, or sophisticated dinner jackets. If you aren’t ready to purchase a tux, no worries! A dinner jacket rental is a hassle-free and cost-effective solution, especially if formal events aren’t a regular thing for you.  If you attend formal events regularly, though, consider investing in a stylish dinner jacket of your own.

While classic black is always a hit, you might also consider textures like the jacquard dinner jacket tux pictured below or these printed dinner jackets. How about a velvet jacket for a plush, festive vibe? It’s an interesting look that still fits comfortably within most formal dress codes. As for pants, reach for well-fitted men’s pants that complement your jacket.

Many guys default to the traditional necktie for formal events, but don’t overlook a bow tie’s classic appeal! These refined accessories take holiday looks to the next level and add a dose of personality to formal wear. A pocket square can be a fun accent for holiday parties, too. Choose one in a holiday color that matches the rest of your outfit. Remember to keep it relatively simple to maintain a formal look. 

Finally, let’s talk shoes. When selecting dress shoes for black-tie events, patent leather oxfords are always a safe bet. If you’re looking for something with a bit more personality, sparkly loafers are a bold yet rewarding choice that pairs nicely with your wardrobe for men’s holiday party outfit ideas. Whether you opt for the sparkles or stick with polished leather, make sure your footwear matches the tone set by the rest of your outfit.

4. Holiday-Themed Parties

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For this kind of celebration, let festive colors like red and green guide your decision for men’s holiday party outfit ideas. If you’re going to a more relaxed event, a red or green sweater can be your go-to piece. For something a little more formal, consider wearing a red velvet dinner jacket. Thematic accessories can also add a finishing touch to your men’s Christmas party outfit. We think our festive ties and holiday-themed socks are smart choices. Standout accessories allow you to flash some seasonal colors and patterns without going overboard.

Remember that, even during the festive holiday season, men’s fashion is all about thoughtful coordination. Ultimately, you want to show off your holiday spirit while maintaining a stylish, well-put-together look. To achieve this, try pairing a festive sweatshirt (just take care to avoid donning an inappropriate holiday one that’s a bit too festive!) with dark chinos for a sophisticated seasonal look. Or, if you’re attending an outdoor event, wear a turtleneck under a blazer for extra warmth and style. A stylish pea coat or leather jacket is a good outerwear option if it’s cold in your area. 

Don’t forget—even casual holiday gatherings require proper footwear! Clean, polished dress shoes take any outfit to the next level. Chelsea boots or dress sneakers also work well for more laid-back celebrations. 

For a finishing touch, consider adding a subtle scent to your ensemble. San Francisco Soap Co.’s Man Bar in Bergamot Cognac offers a refined aroma that complements your festive attire. It’s a great way to make an impression without saying a word.

It’s all about bringing the Holiday Cheer

As you gear up for the holiday season, consider honing skills like how to match a tie with a shirt for those formal gatherings, as well as mastering the art of layering for casual events. With a bit of practice, you’ll be able to create outfits that look like they were put together by a professional stylist. Wherever you find yourself this holiday season, remember to have fun with men’s holiday party outfit ideas. It is both a fun and rewarding way to showcase your personal style. So go ahead—enjoy creating the right outfit and celebrating every festive occasion in style.

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