This year I have two non-kid-friendly holiday parties to go to – like, with other IRL adult women, in stylish homes! I don’t think I need to wear anything beyond holiday sweaters since I live in LA, and I miss it (we host 2-3 holiday parties/potlucks, but they all take place at our house and have lots of kids and are very much in “ugly sweaters and slippers” territory which is fun in its own way). So yes, I dress up a bit, but I still need to be comfortable when sitting, and I still live in Portland (meaning, it’s naturally casual — no body-con sequin dresses required). So in my attempt to look comfortable, casual, but cute with a little more cocktail attire, I paired a few looks with “holiday-adjacent” clothes. Caitlin wanted to shoot it with a flash like I was at a party, which I thought was fun, so you’ll see me drinking fake ginger beer in between laughs… I made some choices, guys!
This first one was Brian’s favorite – I haven’t heard this level of enthusiasm for a costume in a while (probably because I mostly wear sweatshirts and barrel pants). It’s definitely giving it to Martha in the 80’s Preppy sweater and bow (Skin is visible through the gap). then i added it with a short pleated skirt This one is so well crafted in plaid that it really suits me. I guess this is my attempt at a “Ralph Lauren Christmas”, but in a way it matches my style more. I bought a skirt and tights From Aritzia and I love the burgundy with the green/blue plaid. I bought the shoes at a consignment store 10 years ago, so sadly I can’t link them. Oh, and I’m wearing a large in the sweater (the only size left at my local Target), which feels great because it’s quite cropped.
this sweater The softest of them all, and I obviously like that the blue color can be maintained from autumn to winter. Its neutral island style definitely screams “vacation.” But boy is it cozy, soft and warm. 10/10. I added it with a sazen wool skirt And boots I’ve had them for a few years (both still available). My concern here is whether we will have to take off our shoes (which is common in Oregon homes). This outfit doesn’t work without boots. Not sure what the current “house party” protocol is for wearing/taking off shoes… My feeling is that if it’s a casual party with lots of kids, it’s fine… take off the shoes – but if it’s some kind of adults-only dress-up party, shoes should be allowed, right?
Another “conservative on top, slightly scandalous on the bottom” look. This is a cable knit puffed sleeve sweater Really nice cut – it’s wider at the bottom but still short, which is good for proportions (big puffy sleeves + long is too much volume for me). I’ve had pants For a while, and they’re definitely questionable – extremely tight and flared up at the bottom, so styling is important here to not look super shoddy.
I think this outfit could use a pop of burgundy – maybe a bow in my hair or shoes? But I felt good in it, the pants are (but are) expensive. on sale now!) and very attractive.
Here he is, very sophisticated! A new company called Alice Walk arrived to send some items without any obligation. Normally, I decline, not wanting to make me wear more things I probably wouldn’t wear. But this cape It’s so beautiful that I wanted to see it in person – and it’s extremely well made and beautiful. It also comes in a few solid colors, but undoubtedly, I was drawn to this pattern. It’s definitely extravagance (think Frank and Eileen vibes), but for someone with an office job who wants to impress, I think it’s great to wear out on the town.
This is my first attempt at a slip skirt (I know this trend has been around for a while, but This one Was standing in front of me). It is a gorgeous blue color with black lace and tights Below, no bulge showing (that was my fear with these silk/satin slip dresses – if they’re not well made they can show everything). I bought this from Nordstrom, I didn’t realize how expensive it was, but I know I would wear it because it’s easy to pair with sweaters for a cute/sexy/sophisticated look.
I was very comfortable in this outfit and felt pulled together in a way I don’t usually. cardigan (Also from Alice Walk) Very pretty, soft and well made with beautiful horn buttons. I really liked this tonal look, the burgundy tights amped it up a bit.
Pearl necklace , gold pendant necklace
I think for the party, I would probably add more layered jewelry, but this felt like a solid holiday house party outfit that checks all the boxes while also being very comfortable.
cardigan , shirt (similar) , leather skirt , Titus
a stunning burgundy cardigan It says holidays, without turning bright red. I added a pop of black and white stripes, leatherAnd sheer black tightsBTW, I’m on a hair journey and trying not to get any highlights (it’s been a whole year since I’ve done that), so I’m only doing root touchups right now, I like to be less blonde, but these pictures are inspiring me to get some brighter blonde around my face,,,
Sweater , skirt , Titus , belt , boots
one more holiday knit sweater (Fair Isle) which is very comfortable and easy to wear. I added it with J Crew Mini Skirt, burgundy tightsAnd bootsBut obviously it’s so easy to wear dresses (leggings, denim, anything). I’m wearing an XS, so it’s quite big. But super soft and lightweight – so easy to layer up or down.
Let me know if you want some casual/relaxed NYE look. We always go to family house parties, but I usually wear something bright because I’m extra like that (while still being comfortable). xx
*by photos Caitlin Green
