We hope you love our recommendations! Some may have been sent as samples, but all were independently selected by our editors. Just FYI, BuzzFeed and its publishing partners may collect a share of sales and/or other compensation from the links on this page.

    38 Holiday Party Outfit Essentials So Cute, You'll Wanna Wear 'Em All Year Long (And Luckily, You Can)

    🎶 'Cause the party don't start till you walk in. 🎶

    Unless otherwise specified, all sizes in this post are listed in women's.

    1. A showstopping cocktail dress for those holiday parties where you *really* want to make heads turn. 

    Reviewer is wearing the ruched dress in a velvet green
    Reviewer is wearing the same dress in red
    Reviewer is wearing the same dress but in black

    Promising review: "Just received the green dress in the mail and immediately tried it on. Fits perfectly! I like that the material is thin enough to where I won't be sweating to death. I will be wearing it for my Christmas party coming up in December." —C. Athens

    Get it from Amazon for $44.99 (available in sizes XS–XL and six colors). 

    2. A dazzling pair of velvet pants if you detest dresses or just want to be a bit more comfortable for your next party.

    Model is wearing a red velvet pair of pants
    Modcloth

    Get it from Modcloth for $69 (available in sizes XS–4X).

    3. A ruffled bodysuit that adds *so* much va-va-voom to your look, and you don't have to worry about the fabric bunching that happens when you tuck in your top. No French tuck needed!

    Promising review: "I love this bodysuit. I love the look of bodysuits but they’re often very uncomfortable for me to wear. I wore this all day at work and found it to be super comfortable. NO FEELING OF A WEDGIE!! I will be purchasing in other colors." —Tammie Britt

    Get it from Amazon for $20.99+ (available in sizes XS–4XL and 19 colors).

    4. Stretchy faux leather high-waisted leggings for when your go-to choice of pants are leggings, but you're looking for something a bit more elevated for the party.

    Reviewer wearing faux leather leggings
    Back angle of the sleek leggings on another reviewer

    Promising review: "I bought these for my all-black dirty thirty birthday outfit and I love them so much that I wear out now! They're super comfortable and they're lightly lined with fleece so they're perfect and super warm for the cold, outdoor events. They're perfectly stretchy so they fit nice without feeling too tight or cutting off circulation." —Allie

    Get it from Amazon for $31.99+ (available in sizes XS–4XL and in three colors).

    5. A sequin fringe dress that'll have you sparkling as you dance the night away.

    Model is wearing a red sequin fringe dress
    Torrid

    Promising review: "It is easy to feel like a million bucks in this dress ;) it is so sparkly and flowy. The length was to about my knees, and I am 5'8." —

    Thisismynicknameeee

    Get it from Torrid for $89.62 (originally $119.50; available in sizes 00–6).

    6. A fancy-looking pencil dress with sleeves so dramatic, you may find yourself moving your arms a lot just to show them off. 

    Reviewer is wearing the pencil dress with bell sleeves in green
    Reviewer is wearing the same dress but in red
    Reviewer is wearing the same dress but in black

    Promising review: "Loved the dress and how it felt and looked on. It had a nice stretch for my body. Dressier than I anticipated. Great for a wedding or special event." —Reader=leader

    Get it from Amazon for $49.99 (available in sizes XS–3XL and 46 colors). 

    Psst: This item is included in Prime Try Before You Buy, so you can give it a trial run if you're a member!

    7. A one-shoulder velvet dress to add a little bit of *glam* to your holiday look. 

    Model is wearing a black velvet dress with one sleeve
    Old Navy

    Promising review: "Okay, this dress is FIRE! I absolutely love love love this dress, it's super comfy, it's snug, it's soft, it's a beautiful dress!" —Anonymous

    Get it from Old Navy for $39.99 (available in sizes XS–4X and two colors).

    8. A pleated faux-leather skirt because the second you put it on, you'll have people at the party wondering if you're one of those chic fashion bloggers that are oozing with style. Bonus: It has built-in shorts!

    reviewer wearing the black skirt
    reviewer pic of the skirt paired with a white long sleeved top

    Promising review: "This skirt is everything!!! Looks so much more expensive than it really is and is the perfect length. Also just so you know, there are shorts underneath. They are a part of the lining." —Alisha

    Get it from Amazon for $22.98+ (available in sizes XS–2XL and five colors).

    9. A well-structured long blazer so you can be party-ready and still be able to dress work appropriately since you have to go straight from your job to the fun event. 

    Reviewer wearing a black long buttoned blazer
    Reviewer wearing it in a light camel color

    Promising review: "I love this blazer. It’s the perfect shade and elevates every outfit. I'm eyeing other colors now since I love this one so much." —RSW

    Get it from Amazon for $48.93+ (available in sizes 2XS–5XL and 10 colors). 

    Psst: This item is included in Prime Try Before You Buy, so you can give it a trial run if you're a member!

    10. A dazzling sweetheart top you can wear with literally any bottoms and ~immediately~ make your outfit look festive. 

    Model is wearing a silver velvet sweetheart top and denim jeans
    Lane Bryant

    Get it from Lane Bryant for $29.97 (originally $59.95; available in sizes 10–40).

    11. A ribbed knit dress that'll make you look like the main character in every holiday movie ever. You know, the one of the busy workaholic who leaves the hustling city to help her family's alpaca farm and meets a dreamy McDreamyface. That's you now. 

    Model is wearing the ribbed knit midi dress in a pale olive color
    Model is wearing the same dress but in white
    Amazon

    Promising review: "I love this dress. It couldn’t be more perfect. In fact, I just ordered it in a different color." —Rhonda Knight

    Get it from Amazon for $37.99+ (available in sizes S–XL and 13 colors).

    Psst: This item is included in Prime Try Before You Buy, so you can give it a trial run if you're a member!

    12. A fetching metallic pleated skirt so shiny, shimmery, splendid, you'll wonder how you've gone your whole life not owning such a magical skirt. 

    Reviewer wearing the pink metallic skirt
    close-up of reviewer wearing the gold skirt with a black top

    Promising review: "This skirt can be worn either fancy or casual. The shimmer on the skirt is just perfect: not too much and not too little. It really dresses up anything you wear with it. I purchased this skirt for my daughter's wedding, wearing it with a beautiful lace off-the-shoulder top. It looks stunning together. I would definitely recommend this to anyone who wants to look amazing. LOVE THIS SKIRT!" —S Bozz

    Get it from Amazon for $24.96+ (available in sizes XS–2XL and eight colors, as well as a midi style).

    Psst: This item is included in Prime Try Before You Buy, so you can give it a trial run if you're a member!

    13. A bold blouse because nothing about you says anything less than "I HAVE ARRIVED." Am I wrong? NO.

    Promising review: "This shirt is just cool! Like The Fresh Prince and New Kids on the Block COOL. It makes a statement that you OWN your style. The colors are just as flashy in person as online. I received many compliments! You cannot be missed while wearing it, that's for sure! Buy it!" —Joy Belcher

    Get it from Amazon for $21.99+ (available in sizes XS–3XL and 22 colors).

    14. A velvety tank top for those parties when you want to look extra glamorous but could not be bothered with anything that isn't super comfy.

    Reviewer in dusty pink velvet strapped tank
    Reviewer turned around to show the dipped V in the neckline at the back

    Promising review: "Buy more than one! I love this top! You can't beat the price for the quality. Fits as expected, hitting at the hip and loose at the bust. This is a great layering piece under a jacket or sweater and can hold its own when worn alone. I highly recommend it. It will become a staple in your wardrobe." —jillmarieg

    Get it from Amazon for $9.99+ (available in sizes XS–2XL and 14 colors).

    15. A sweater with a built-in collar so you don't have to deal with the extra bulk of wearing an actual shirt underneath your sweater, but you get to keep that cute layering look, perfect for a holiday party.

    Reviewer is wearing the grey sweater with a fake white button down shirt peaking through the neckline
    Reviewer is wearing a pale blue sweater with a fake white button down top attached underneath it

    Promising review: "I love this sweater! It is super soft and drapes really nicely. I ordered an extra small and it fits perfectly. It would look wonderful with jeans or leggings. It is super comfortable, but the collar gives it a polished look." —Joanna Alper

    Get it from Amazon for $29.99+ (available in sizes XS–2XL and eight styles).

    16. A silky long-sleeve dress perfect for being awarded "Best Dressed" at all the upcoming holiday events and will be exceptionally warmer (and cuter) if paired with fleece-lined tights! 

    model wearing the black dress with red heels
    model wearing the pink dress with ankle boots
    Amazon

    Promising reviews: "Looks amazing on. So soft and so so cute. It can be worn with or without the belt." —Natalia

    "A must-have! This dress is everything!!! I purchased the green color and it’s absolutely beautiful! I think it’s my new favorite dress! The fit and length were perfect!" —Jennifer Caldorera

    Get it from Amazon for $42.98+ (available in sizes 2XS–2XL, 2X–5X, and five colors). 

    Psst: This item is included in Prime Try Before You Buy, so you can give it a trial run if you're a member!

    17. A lantern-sleeve knit dress that will become your "go-to" dress for all the holiday parties this season and possibly for the next several years too!

    Reviewer photo of a person wearing a wine red knit dress and black boots
    Reviewer is wearing the same dress but in white with black heels

    Promising review: "Such a cute outfit. Dress is warm and fits exactly to size. If you have a big 'trunk' it does tend to lift up just a tad in the back. Overall, I'm so glad I purchased it." —MW

    Get it from Amazon for $37.89 (available in sizes S–XL and 25 colors).

    18. An embroidered lace bodysuit so iconic, you might not even *want* to tell people where you got it — and who can blame you??

    A reviewer wearing the black lace bodysuit with red embroidered flowers on the chest
    A different reviewer wearing the same bodysuit with a blazer

    Promising review: "Quality for a price that can't be beat. I just received this today and it's absolutely one of my favorites from Amazon. I wear body suits under my clothing just so it shows out of my shirts." —claudis

    Get it from Amazon for $12.99+ (available in sizes S–2XL and in 12 colors).

    19. A lovely tulle skirt you can dress up à la Carrie Bradshaw or down if you want to still look like the main attraction at every party you've been invited to this season.

    reviewer wearing the skirt in red with heels and a matching top
    reviewer wearing the skirt in white with black boots and a black top

    Promising review: "This skirt was absolutely the bomb.com! So cute, so trendy, and comfortable! I love it!" —Dottie

    Get it from Amazon for $34.99+ (available in sizes XS–5XL and in 35 colors).

    20. A stunning dress that'll instantly become your designated LBD to literally any event you're invited to after the holidays. The cutest part? If you're a mum, you can match with your little ones!

    Model is wearing the black ballerina dress with short puff sleeves
    Model is wearing the same dress, but for a younger kid
    Model is wearing the same dress, but for a baby
    Ivy City Co

    Ivy City Co is a woman-owned small business based in Utah that specializes in created stunning pieces for you to wear with your little ones.

    Promising review: "Love this dress!! I get so many compliments each time I wear it! You feel like a princess and I love all the little details." —Tiffani O.

    Get the adult version from Ivy City Co for $158 (available in sizes 2XS–3X and nine colors), the mini version for $74 (available in sizes 12M–12 and nine colors), and the baby version for $64 (available in sizes OM–12M and two colors).

    21. An oversized turtleneck sweater dress you can cinch at the waist with a stylish belt, or keep loosey-goosey for when you want a more oversized flow, especially when you want space to get your groove on during the party.

    Reviewer in green sweater dress with balloon sleeves
    Reviewer in maroon version

    Promising review: "So I sized up just because I wanted a cozy fit. When I tell you it’s the warmest thing I own it is the warmest thing I own. The material appears thin but it withheld all my body heat and kept me warm which I did not expect. It’s a bit chunky which is also fine. But definitely soft and homey." —Jen Riv

    Get it from Amazon for $41.99+ (available in sizes XS–XL and 15 colors). 

    Psst: This item is included in Prime Try Before You Buy, so you can give it a trial run if you're a member!

    22. An effortlessly chic mock-neck top with a split color design that'll make you look like literal walking art. And well, you are. Even without this top, let's be real.

    Model is wearing a mock neck top with a split black and white color block look and blue jeans
    Eloquii

    Promising review: "I’m in love with this bold yet understated turtleneck. It can be worn with so many different looks. I plan to dress it up and down." —The Pink Elephant

    Get it form Eloquii for $74.95 (available in sizes 14–28 and two colors).

    23. A ruched velvet mini dress because nothing says "it's a holiday party" quite like velvet does. 

    A gif of a model wearing the burgundy velvet ruched mini dress
    Amazon

    Promising review: "I don't usually get compliments from total strangers, but this dress brings it out in people I guess. It's SO cute and comfortable, hugs in the right places, lots of cleavage, and all around it's my favorite winter time cocktail dress. I wore it with fish net tights and boots, so cute." —msebaker

    Get it from Amazon for $36.99+ (available in sizes S–XL and five colors).

    24. High-waisted pants that come in 47 colors so you can basically buy one for every party you've been invited to and never repeat. An outfit repeater? Who are you? Lizzie McGuire?

    Reviewer is wearing a black top and maroon high waisted tie-knot pants
    Reviewer is wearing a black top and pale green high waisted tie-knot pants

    Promising review: "Good quality, cute dressy pants! I couldn’t believe they fit so well considering online purchase. The material is very sturdy and nice. I’ve washed them on delicate twice without issues. I get lots of compliments at work. You could dress them up or down. I really really like these and will prob get other colors." —Macey M.

    Get it from Amazon for $26.39+ (available in sizes S–2XL and 47 colors). 

    25. An asymmetrical off-shoulder dress for when you want to show up to the holiday party and be more popular than the mistletoe. 

    Model is wearing the off shoulder dress in black
    Reviewer wearing the same dress but in a light cream color and with the off shoulder design lifted higher

    Promising review: "Great quality and fit! Looked high end for just a few dollars! Thank you! It was perfect for the wedding my husband and I went to over the weekend!" —KellLynn

    Get it from Amazon for $35.99+ (available in sizes S–XL and eight colors). 

    Psst: This item is included in Prime Try Before You Buy, so you can give it a trial run if you're a member!

    26. A long-sleeve blouse top with lace sleeves so you can wear a more elevated top for a holiday party, but still get that much-needed breeze to your arms when the temps start to rise as the dancing gets serious. 💃 

    Promising review: "There are so many details on this top! It’s very good quality. I love the black because it looks classic and perfect for a date night! This top is actually COMFORTABLE!!!" —Nicole Petersen

    Get it from Amazon for $19.19+ (available in sizes S–2XL and 42 colors).

    27. A dazzling blue number because red and green aren't the only colors you're allowed to wear at holiday parties!

    Model is wearing a bold blue glittery off shoulder bodycon dress with mesh long sleeves
    Windsor

    Get it from Windsor for $44.90 (available in sizes XS–L).

    28. An absolutely stunning jumpsuit when you don't want to be bothered trying to find a top *and* pants to wear to the party. Why bother when you have this gorgeous number just waiting to be flaunted?

    Model is wearing a black jumpsuit with a V-neckline and embroidery around the neck and down the hips
    ASOS

    Get it from ASOS for $74 (available in sizes 12–24).

    29. An asymmetrical wrap skirt that comes in 18 different colors, so you'll basically have one for every party theme your friends have managed to come up with this year. There's a reason they call you the Queen of Costume Changes.

    Promising review: "Perfect transition piece! Honestly, impressed. It does not have a lining, but it also was not too sheer to the point you can't wear it. I got MANY compliments on this and you just can't beat the price for a statement piece. Fit was true to size and if anything had room for adjustment. The waist band also has two buttons, so you can wear it looser/tighter! It is a wrap, but it's not revealing at all!" —Lexi Milone

    Get it from Amazon for $28.99+ (available in sizes S–XL and 23 colors).

    30. A tiered maxi dress that'll probably immediately give you the urge to dance since you'll literally look like the dancing emoji. 💃 The audience will be in tiers. Get it?

    Model is wearing a red tiered maxi dress
    Kissy's Fine Apparel

    Kissy's Fine Apparel is a family-owned small business based in The Berkshires that specializes in showcasing trending, but timeless pieces to add to your closet.

    Get it from Kissy's Fine Apparel for $68 (available in sizes S–L).

    31. A darling dotted mini dress so everyone can spot the cutest person at the party. *Spoiler alert* it's you. 

    Promising review: "Wow do I love this dress. It fits so nicely and is so cute. Can’t wait to wear for Christmas!" —Lexie Daniels

    Get it from Amazon for $46.88+ (available in sizes S–XL and six colors).

    Psst: This item is included in Prime Try Before You Buy, so you can give it a trial run if you're a member!

    32. A pullover featuring a grid design that would have Miranda Priestly giving you a slight nod of approval because of how chic you look. As long as it's not a pursed lip, we're good.

    A model in the white pullover with a thin black grid design on it
    Reviewer is wearing the grid sweater with red pants and black boots

    Promising review: "I loved this sweater from the moment I laid my eyes on it. It's not only pretty but the quality is amazing. Thick and warm. Perfect for a sunny but cold weather." —Mme Vlt

    Get it from Amazon for $45.90+ (available in sizes S–XL and four colors).

    33. A subtle pom-pom jumper your holiday guests will have to actively try not to poke or flick because those pom-poms are just so! dang! cute!!

    A model wearing the sweater with lantern sleeves and pom poms attached
    Reviewer is wearing the gray pom-pom sweater and red plaid leggings

    Promising review: "Perfect sweater! LOVE this sweater— it is so soft and comfortable (one of the very few that doesn’t make me itch) and looks cute on!!" —Amanda

    Get it from Amazon for $39.99+ (available in sizes 4–16 and 24 colors).

    Psst: This item is included in Prime Try Before You Buy, so you can give it a trial run if you're a member!

    34. A velvet wrap dress that'll look absolutely stunning next to the tree for some much-needed Instagram pics. How else will people see you in this gorgeous dress?!

    Model is wearing the burgundy velvet ribbed long sleeve dress
    Reviewer is wearing the same dress but in a burnt orange color

    Promising review: "Loved this dress for a November wedding. Extremely soft and comfortable. Fit perfectly. I took the button off the chest because I liked it better that way, but it can be buttoned up more if you have a larger chest which is fabulous." —Kristen J

    Get it from Amazon for $46.99 (available in sizes S–XL and six colors). 

    35. A mermaid maxi dress perfect for a more formal holiday party where you want to look like the Belle of the ball. 

    Reviewer wearing the long sleeve velvet dress in green
    Reviewer wearing the same dress but in black

    Promising review: "Loved the fit, comfort and simple elegance of velvet for my daughter's wedding." —ATP

    Get it from Amazon for $56.99+ (available in sizes S–XL and four colors).

    36. A vibrant bubble hem dress to really *blow* the competition on who wore the cutest dress out of the water. 

    Model is wearing a vibrant pink bubble hem dress with silver heels
    Confetti Boutique

    Confetti Boutique is a small business specializing in bold, unique pieces to add some fun to your wardrobe. 

    Get it from Confetti Boutique for $60 (available in sizes S–L).

    37. A bell-sleeve blouse so bold, everyone will know the second you walk into the room that the party can officially start. The sleeves add such a level of fun and the layering is just *chef's kiss* perfection.

    Promising review: "This top is perfect for what I was looking for. The fabric is nice enough that you could dress it up. But the shirt is casual enough that you could pair it with jeans. The fit is perfect." —Jenessa

    Get it from Amazon for $26.99+ (available in sizes S–2XL and 28 colors).

    Psst: This item is included in Prime Try Before You Buy, so you can give it a trial run if you're a member! 

    38. A pleated wrap dress you'll find it incredibly difficult to not just twirl around all night long while wearing it. 

    Reviewer is wearing the pleated dress in a color orange with black heels
    Reviewer wearing the same dress in a royal blue

    Promising review: "This dress was perfect for the occasion! It’s light weight and comfortable. I felt just the right amount of sexiness yet I was still elegant enough to be classic. The length was perfect and the color was spectacular." —Erica

    Get it from Amazon for $45.99+ (available in sizes S–2XL and 15 colors).

    39. A one-shoulder velvet top because why have two sleeves when you can have just one? Sometimes you just need the extra freedom for the fist pump move during your favorite song.

    Model is wearing a velvet pink one sleeve top tucked into jeans
    Old Navy

    Promising review: "So so cute! Paired with black jeans and heels it becomes such a cute holiday outfit! So soft and comfortable." —Anonymous

    Get it from Old Navy for $26.99 (available in sizes XS–4X and three colors).

    40. A jumpsuit that adds a splash of sass (hello, exposed shoulder!) in a seemingly basic outfit. I'd definitely style this with some classic pumps and even a bold red lip. I'll see *you* at the holiday party.

    Reviewer wearing the same jumpsuit in green
    Reviewer photo of a person wearing a black jumpsuit

    Promising reviews: "This jumper is the most comfortable thing I own. It’s super trendy with a jean jacket and perfect for travel." —Doxielady

    "I want one in every color! The material is soft and lightweight and it is so easy to wear. This is an effortless look- pick up groceries, dinner with friends, date night. Dress it up or be a sloth, either way." —Amazon customer

    Get it from Amazon for $33.99 (available in sizes XS–3XL and eight colors).

    Psst: This item is included in Prime Try Before You Buy, so you can give it a trial run if you're a member! 

    41. A ribbed knit pencil skirt perfect for a more subtle party look, especially if you pair it with some high boots underneath the skirt and long-sleeve blouse. 

    reviewer wearing the orange midi skirt
    A gif of a reviewer wearing the same skirt but in a light beige color

    Promising reviews: "This skirt is perfect for the office, travel, or casual wear! So stylish and fun! Slit makes it a bit sexy!" —Taylor Opitz

    "I like how comfortable and warm this is in cool weather." —Wanda

    Get it from Amazon for $25.99+ (available in sizes XS–XL and in 23 colors). 

    42. And finally, a split-wrap velvet dress that is almost guaranteed to be the main topic everyone is discussing at the holiday party because it's just SO. DANG. BEAUTIFUL. 

    Reviewer pic of the velvet ruched mini dress in a dark green color
    Reviewer wearing the same dress but in a burgundy red

    Promising reviews: "Loved the dress for the fall wedding I went to!! It fit perfect and was SO comfortable AND I got many compliments on it!! Excited to wear it again!!" —Trisha Doty

    "I bought this for a Christmas party! I read the reviews carefully so I wasn’t disappointed, but I will warn you, it is designed to show leg with the very high slit. If that makes you uncomfortable then don’t buy it. Good quality dress for the money!" —Shelly

    Get it from Amazon for $45.99 (available in sizes S–XL and five colors).  

    You, when someone asks what gift you brought to the holiday party: