Every December, as the festive lights go up, our inner stylist comes alive. It doesn’t really sleep the rest of the year.
Holiday parties are coming, invitations are flooding in, and the big question returns like a classic movie character. I’ll be back, but how should I dress?
‘What will I wear?’
This year, the holiday dress code sticks to familiar but safe styles.
Shine – but not too much. Avoid looking like a walking lantern. Don’t take style tips from your Thessaloniki classmate from Ano Poli. Velvet, satin, and metallic fabrics are in this year, with deep reds, emerald greens, and black with gold details leading the way.
Shoes should have statement heels or knee-high boots as ‘safe bets.’ For the daring, a total monochrome look is still in. (Let’s be honest, we’re not fans of Armenian visits.)
For accessories, keep it simple: bold earrings, clutches that look like jewelry, and makeup that says I’m festive but not overdoing it (even if you are. Let’s be real). Hair? Loose waves or sleek updos for that ‘I woke up like this’ vibe. As if you’d show up to a party looking like you just rolled out of bed. You wouldn’t even take out the trash like that.
Anyway: that’s the main idea. Everything seems planned, balanced, and… necessary. Or at least that’s how we see it.
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But can I be honest with you? Don’t we want to be real during these times?
What fancy dresses, expensive shoes costing 500 euros, and clutches do we need to eat a little salad (always just a little for show), some turkey, three melomakarona, and say ‘see you next year in good health’? When did we decide that without velvet, the new year can’t start?
Why does one festive night need as much prep as a small wedding? (And speaking of weddings, I have my doubts.)
We spend time, money (a lot), and nerves (plenty) on an outfit worn for just a few hours. It gets photographed from three angles, maybe on Instagram or Facebook if you’re a boomer, then filed under ‘nice but where to wear it again?’
We stress if it’s formal enough, trendy enough, ‘festive’ enough – as if midnight only strikes if we’re wearing something new. (And in America, they add something old and something blue.)
Somewhere along the way, we forget the most important thing. Holidays aren’t fashion shows. They’re about gathering around the table with people you love, sharing laughter freely, hugs without any dress code, and moments that make you feel at home.
These feelings don’t come from an outfit check but are the best things you can wear.
So yes, wear what makes you feel beautiful. But if something doesn’t fit this year, it’s not about the dress or shoes – it’s about thinking holidays are measured by expenses and preparation. The best parties happen when you’re with people who love you just as you are.
Plus, after the first bottle of drinks, half of it ends up spilled or tossed on the couch. No one will notice if you’re wearing Salvatore Maroni or Vangelis Karedimitros.
