The holiday season is a nightmare for your cortisol levels — you’re planning gifts, preparing to host parties, and gearing up to see the family. On top of this, it’s also one of the only times during the year when you’ve got a celebration with family, friends, and work all around the same time. Dressing for holiday parties is tricky because what you wear with your family won’t be the same thing you wear out with your friends, and what you wear out with your friends certainly won’t be the same thing you wear with your coworkers. 

It can feel restrictive to your true Hot Girl style to go for more conservative outfits in certain social situations. Still, there’s a chance in every situation to feel unique and glam — just like gold. As they say, if there’s a will, there’s a way — ahead, a guide on dressing like your true hot-girl self while adhering to the unspoken holiday party dress codes.

Dressing for a party back home is tricky because there’s always the chance that virtually nobody will understand the vibes. In the case that your favourite divisive leather Diesel skirt wouldn’t work for lunch at grandma’s, you’ll want to use a little bit for me, little bit for them outfit formula. 

First, invest in statement accessories (like hair bows, glitzy drop earrings, or patent leather kitten heels) that speak to your heart. It doesn’t matter how “out there” they are — these accessories are the “little bit for me” part of your outfit. For the “little bit for them” part, you can still opt for a “cool girl” dress, pantsuit, or skirt and top, you’ll just want to make sure that it’s in a holiday color palette. A flowy red dress with a long velvet hair bow is everything for a proper dinner. If your family is more chill, though, a freshwater pearl necklace will go great with any turtleneck-and-skirt outfit.

TikTok gave a second breath of life to Gisele Bündchen’s cameo in Devil Wears Prada, and almost every It Girl now dresses like they’re about to send a fax from their chic 9-5. Officewear (which many people say fits a “hot librarian” aesthetic) is everything right now, and we’re primarily seeing it pop up in brands like Miu Miu and on people like Bella Hadid and Devon Lee Carlson.

Pinstripes are the easiest way to get this look — go for a simple navy and white pinstripe pant with a crisp white shirt for an authentic mid-2000s office vibe. If your office is relaxed, go the hotter — but still HR-appropriate — route and wear a Kate Moss-inspired mini wool blend dress (Reformation’s Willene Dress is perf for this). Either way, don’t forget to pair the look with a slicked-back bun, pointed-toe heels or boots, and some rectangular reading glasses.

Here’s where things can get a little bit more fun. If you and your friends basically get together to let loose and have a great time, then the possibilities are endless when it comes to choosing your outfit for a night out. You can go for virtually anything that screams “going out” and reflects your personal style.

For a stylish and versatile option, consider wearing a halter dress paired with a vibrant red corsage. This chic ensemble will make you stand out and feel confident whether you’re going out for a nice dinner, hitting the club, or even doing both in one night! On the other hand, if you and your friends prefer attending more sophisticated and upscale events, you can opt for anything silky and elegant. The smooth and luxurious fabric will add a touch of sophistication to your look, making you feel like the belle of the ball at any adult soiree you attend.