Dress to Sleigh (part deux): 8 low-key festive looks that don't require a dress

featuring pieces you probably already have in your closet

My hot take on holiday style: the ideal party outfit doesn’t always involve a dress. Let’s be real — not everyone wants to shimmy into a fitted sequined mini or brave the cold in a floaty tulle number. Sometimes it’s about styling the gems you already own and love in unexpected ways.

Welcome to part two of my holiday style guide where we’ll focus on festive yet chill looks using pieces you probably already have in your closet. From cozy cookie exchanges, intimate Hanukkah dinners and relaxed NYE gatherings, yule effortlessly sleigh these celebrations — no new party dress required.

Little Miss Fancy Pants

fair isle sweater // pajama set // earrings // tennis bracelet // gold link bracelet // silver ring

Let’s talk about the art of holiday dressing without sacrificing your ability to reach the top shelf. This look hits that sweet spot between “I made an effort” and “I can actually host in this.” A sky blue Fair Isle sweater brings just enough seasonal charm, while feather-trimmed pants (aka party pajama pants) take your standard black bottoms into party territory. Metallic woven pumps add that perfect hint of sparkle.

Why it works:

• That Fair Isle sweater hits the festive note without playing the whole holiday symphony.

• Feather-trimmed pants are the plot twist your closet didn’t know it needed — comfy enough for cooking, fancy enough for photos. If you don’t own one, satin or silk pants will work just as well.

• Metallic low-heeled pumps can handle kitchen duty while keeping things dressed up.

• A sprinkle of sparkly earrings and stacked tennis bracelets, because you’re not just serving looks — you’re serving hors d’oeuvres.

metallic woven ballet pump* (LWSF15)

Editor’s note: I've partnered with Plush, an AI-powered fashion search engine that makes shopping and curation so much easier. Partnerships like this help the newsletter continue growing and evolving.

I recently discovered Plush and it’s been a total game-changer in curating pieces for my edits. It basically scours major retailers and cool DTC brands to find those ultra specific items like a sky blue fair isle sweater or black feather-trimmed pants. You can even search for a specific vibe and budget like “glam party outfit under $500” to gather some inspiration. Cool, right? Some of the links included in this letter will take you directly to the Plush site. If you end up trying the tool, let me know your thoughts in the comments.

Ok, back to the looks!

The Sequin Number