Listen, you know how it goes. That time of year rolls around, and suddenly your calendar is just packed solid. You’ve got the office shindig, maybe a fancy client dinner, that one neighbor’s casual cookie swap, and then your buddy’s annual bash. Each invite is yelling a different dress code at you—Black Tie Optional, Festive Cocktail, Smart Casual Holiday—and you’re standing in front of your closet, feeling utterly lost. It’s overwhelming.
Next we’ll go through five killer looks. You might even already have most of the pieces.
1. When the Invitation Yells ‘Black Tie’ (Go Big or Go Home)
If that little piece of card stock says “Black Tie” or, heavens forbid, “White Tie,” you really don’t have much choice. This is where you bring out the big guns.
For true Black Tie, it’s a tuxedo, plain and simple. We’re talking a black or midnight blue tuxedo, a crisp white French cuff shirt (you need cufflinks, obviously), and a black bow tie. Now, since it’s Christmas, you’re allowed to add a little flair—maybe try a jacket in a rich, jewel-toned velvet. I mean, a deep emerald green or even a rich burgundy velvet dinner jacket? Paired with classic black tuxedo trousers, you’re instantly giving off that old Hollywood holiday vibe. It’s dramatic, isn’t it? Just make sure those shoes are polished. Black patent leather Oxfords are basically required here. Don’t skip the shoes—ever.
2. Festive Cocktail: The Velvet Blazer Pop
This is probably the most common Christmas party dress code, and honestly, the most fun. It’s formal enough for an office event but lets you bring some actual holiday cheer into your look.
The core ingredient here is a statement blazer or sport coat. Since it’s Christmas, this is where you pull out a blazer in a bolder fabric—maybe a textured wool, or, sticking with that classic seasonal fabric, corduroy or velvet. You could try a striking cobalt blue or even a classic black watch plaid jacket.
Pair that with tailored dark chinos or wool trousers in a contrasting color (like cream trousers with a burgundy velvet jacket, if you’re brave, or just plain black slacks if you’re keeping it simple). Layering a fine-gauge merino wool sweater over a collared shirt works too, especially if you ditch the tie. Finish it off with loafers or sleek leather double monk strap shoes. It’s polished, it’s festive, and it doesn’t feel like you’re trying too hard.
3. Smart Casual Holiday: The Office Party Vibe
For the casual office party or a dinner at a good restaurant, you need that sweet spot: dressed-up comfort. It’s about looking intentional, not lazy.
Start with a great pair of pants. High-quality dark denim (no rips!) or well-pressed chinos are perfect. Up top, ditch the tie but keep the structure. A wool-blend sport coat or even a textured jacket, perhaps a herringbone pattern, is the way to go.
Under the jacket, try a simple button-down or maybe a cashmere polo if the room is going to be warm. Look for colors that hint at the season without being cheesy—a deep moss green, perhaps, or a rich caramel brown. I’m telling you, a great pair of dark brown leather chukka boots or simple, clean white sneakers (if you know the environment is relaxed) really ties this whole look together. It screams “I’m professional, but I also know how to enjoy a Friday night.”
4. Elevated Casual: The Cozy Turtleneck Power Move
Sometimes the party is just at a friend’s house, or maybe it’s a slightly cozier, more intimate gathering, but you still want to look sophisticated. This is where the turtleneck, or roll-neck sweater, becomes your best friend.
A chunky, cable-knit turtleneck in a neutral color like cream or gray is pure holiday classic. It feels inherently wintery and comfortable. But to elevate it beyond “sitting by the fire,” you need to add structure. Layer a tailored wool topcoat or a sleek, dark pea coat over it for arrival. Pair the sweater with dark dress trousers—not necessarily suit pants, but something refined. Maybe some tailored flannel trousers?
The whole point of this look is texture and silhouette. It’s clean, it’s warm, and it’s effortlessly chic. It also means you don’t have to mess with a collar or a tie, which, let’s be honest, is a huge win.
5. Casual Get-Together: The Flannel & Denim Reboot
Sometimes, you’re just showing up to someone’s house to drink beer and watch Christmas movies. You still can’t wear your gym gear, though. You absolutely cannot.
This is the ultimate laid-back look, but it still has to be polished. Start with your denim: choose a dark, clean wash. Next, embrace the flannel. But not just any flannel. Pick a flannel shirt in a festive plaid pattern—something classic like red and black or maybe green and blue. Make sure the flannel is neatly pressed, though. Wrinkly flannel is a definite style killer.
If it’s cold, layer that flannel over a simple, solid t-shirt (white or gray), and then throw on a lightweight utility jacket or an untailored, brushed wool shacket. It keeps you warm, and it’s a simple layer that adds structure. Pair it all with clean boots—maybe a pair of sturdy work boots or rugged leather Chelsea boots. It’s casual, but the effort is visible. And that’s what really matters.
So, what’s your go-to look when you absolutely have to nail the Christmas party dress code? Are you brave enough for the green velvet jacket, or do you stick to the safety of a dark suit? Let us know! And if you found this useful, maybe follow us on Facebook and Instagram—we’ve always got more tips for looking sharp all year round.
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Sources
- www.frenchcrown.com/blogs/news/christmas-party-outfit-for-men
- www.artofmanliness.com/style/outfit-guide/holiday-smart-casual/
All image are AI generated
