With the holiday season approaching, it’s the perfect time to explore the art of Parisian-inspired festive style. Parisians are known for their effortless elegance and understated glamour, even when it comes to dressing up for celebrations. Instead of going all-out, they focus on one standout piece and balance it with minimalistic elements. In this guide, we’ll explore how to achieve that signature “less is more” look that defines Parisian holiday dressing, from key pieces to styling tips for a chic yet relaxed festive look.
1. Make a Statement with a Bold Skirt
One of my favorite ways to style a holiday outfit is by letting a standout piece, like a sequin skirt, do the talking. Picture a sparkly, forest green skirt paired with a cozy grey cashmere sweater—eye-catching but not overwhelming. In Paris, I’ve noticed that this combination, with its mix of glam and comfort, is popular at festive gatherings.
I remember wearing a similar look to a holiday dinner last year and feeling perfectly put together but still relaxed. With a statement skirt, you don’t need much else—just a pair of black kitten heels and simple jewelry to pull it all together.
Style Tip: If you’re looking for a versatile statement skirt, try choosing one in a mid-length that’s easy to dress up or down. You can pair it with sweaters for a cozy look or switch to a fitted top for something sleeker.
Shop the Look
Gray Cashmere Sweater – Saint Laurent: here
Ardith sequined maxi skirt – Rixo: here
Maysale 50 suede mules – Manolo Blahnik: here
Le 5 à 7 Mini patent leather shoulder bag – Saint Laurent: here
Efezia wool and cashmere coat – Isabel Marant: here
2. Let Statement Shoes Take Center Stage
Another look I’ve adopted is to keep everything simple but let my shoes stand out. A pair of dark green heeled boots can transform a casual outfit of jeans and a sweater into something holiday-ready. There’s something about a bold shoe that feels both festive and practical, a look that’s just as suited for a chic dinner party or a work event.
I have a favorite pair of burgundy boots that I bring out every holiday season. They’re perfect for adding a festive touch, and I love how they instantly dress up any look without needing to go all out.
Style Tip: Don’t be afraid to choose a bold color for your shoes, even if it’s outside your usual palette. A deep red, green, or metallic shade can add a festive vibe and work beautifully with more neutral outfits. I find investing in a high-quality pair offers a deeper, more chic color and elevates the whole look.
Shop the Look
Mockneck wool and cashmere sweater – Jardin des Orangers: here
Ren high-rise wide-leg jeans – Agolde: here
Reus suede boots – Gianvito Rossi: here
Wool and cotton-blend jacket – Patou: here
Le Demi-Cœur leather shoulder bag – Alaïa: here
3. Go Chic with a Statement Coat and Boots
The right outerwear can make a simple outfit feel elevated. I’ve found that knee-high boots can turn heads while keeping the rest of the look minimal. For a recent winter soirée, I chose a classic dark gray coat and paired it with black knee-high leather boots. The outfit was comfortable, warm, and perfectly suitable for both indoor and outdoor gatherings.
This style of dressing is practical, too. Paris can be chilly this time of year, and having a chic coat that pulls everything together allows you to stay festive without needing to layer endlessly.
Style Tip: For a statement coat, look for details like a belted waist, interesting texture, or unique color. Even if the cut is classic, a subtle twist can make it feel more elevated.
Shop the Look
Rialto camelhair coat – Max Mara: here
SL M136 oval sunglasses – Saint Laurent: here
Alizze 85 leather knee-high boots – Jimmy Choo: here
Paris leather tote bag – Demellier: here
4. Embrace Sparkle with a Statement Dress (And Keep the Rest Minimal)
For holiday parties, I sometimes love to embrace sequins—but only in one piece, like a dress, while keeping my hair and makeup simple. I love wearing a sequin dress to holiday parties but keep everything else minimal with soft, natural makeup and barely-styled hair. By not going overboard with accessories, the outfit feels balanced and effortless.
If you’re trying to style something similar, choose a single accessory to complement the dress and let the rest be. This keeps the look glamorous without overdoing it.
Style Tip: If sequins feel too bold for you, try satin or velvet instead. These fabrics add a festive feel but can be easier to style subtly.
Shop the Look
Sequined midi dress – Ganni: here
Double-breasted wool-blend coat – Dries Van Noten: here
Loop 75 leather sandals – Khaite: here
Le Cœur leather shoulder bag – Alaïa: here
Drop earrings – Bottega Veneta: here
5. Subtle Sparkle with a Festive Sweater
For a more low-key gathering, a metallic sweater paired with high-waisted jeans is always a good option. I’ve found this to be the perfect solution for casual holiday events, from family dinners to evenings out with friends. The sparkle in the sweater feels festive, but the jeans keep it casual and relaxed. It’s a combination I come back to every year, and it never feels too much.
One of my go-to holiday looks is a silver-thread sweater I bought a few years ago—it’s perfect for those smaller gatherings where I want a bit of sparkle without the fuss of a full outfit.
Style Tip: For maximum versatility, choose a sweater with subtle sparkle that you can pair with both jeans and skirts. It can transition from daytime to evening effortlessly.
Shop the Look
Sequined metallic knit sweater – Balenciaga: here
Nico high-rise straight jeans – Saint Laurent: here
Nevada 40 leather ankle boots – Khaite: here
Le 5 à 7 patent leather shoulder bag – Saint Laurent: here
Drop earrings – Bottega Veneta: here
Holiday style, to me, is all about feeling at ease in what I’m wearing while still embracing the festive spirit. Living in Paris has taught me that an understated, balanced look can still feel dressed up and special. This season, try picking one standout piece and let it shine, whether it’s a sequin skirt, bold shoes, or a festive sweater. With these tips, you’ll be ready for any gathering—looking chic, feeling comfortable, and adding that touch of Parisian charm to your holiday style.
Joyeuses fêtes!
