Holiday Hosting in Style
When you’re hosting, your outfit has almost as much to do as you! It needs to feel comfortable while you make final preparations, stun your guests when they arrive and sparkle with you through dinner and an evening of catching up.
The best hostess outfit is one you can put on, smile in the mirror and stop thinking about.
Choose an outfit that moves with you
Before deciding on an outfit, try sitting, reaching, and moving around in it. An easy dress like the Sail to Sable Charlotte Sequin dress or a Patty Kim Kelly dress will move with you while giving you room to enjoy a long evening.
Keep sleeves practical
If you’re serving food or finishing preparations, sleeves that stay clear of your hands can make life easier. A short-sleeve dress like our Yuletide Plaid Perfection Dress gives you flexibility as the house warms up.
Save delicate or trailing details for a gathering where someone else is handling the kitchen.
Let color set the mood
For Thanksgiving, warm browns, burgundy, and cream feel welcoming. The Duffield Lane Jada Dress mixes warm burgundy color with an easy-to-wear style perfect for preparing a party.
The Gretchen Scott Swagger Dress in brown suede perfectly moves from cozy fall vibes to elevated hosting wear.
At Christmas, red, green, navy, and classic plaid bring a festive touch. So look no further than our Belmont Velvet Maxi Dress for elegant holiday hosting, and yes, it comes in a red variety with our Montclair Holiday Dress
A solid-colored outfit also gives you a lovely backdrop for a favorite necklace or pair of earrings.
Finish with one special detail
A velvet bow, a beautiful bracelet, or statement earrings can make a simple outfit feel celebration-ready. Choose a piece that won’t get in the way as you welcome guests and serve dinner.
Find your next favorite piece of statement jewelry from one of our many handcrafted picks from Susan Shaw.
Visit The Lucky Knot for a hostess look that helps you feel as lovely as the celebration you’ve planned.
Build Your Hostess Outfit in Three Steps
Start with the part of the day that asks the most of your outfit. If you will be cooking and serving, choose a silhouette and sleeve shape that let you move comfortably. You can add your final accessories once the preparations are finished.
- Choose your foundation: A plaid dress feels festive on its own; a solid velvet dress leaves room for a special accessory.
- Check the practical details: Sit, bend, and reach before deciding what to wear. Keep trailing sleeves and delicate accessories clear of food preparation.
- Add one finishing touch: A pair of earrings can make an outfit feel complete without adding extra layers.
For a coordinated table-side look, echo one color from your outfit in your hair ribbon or shoes. Let comfort guide the final choice so you can enjoy time with your guests.
Shop Velvet Dresses · Explore Susan Shaw Jewelry · Discover J.Marie Dresses
Shop Your Holiday Look
Explore holiday dresses, Christmas sweaters, and festive accessories, or browse The Christmas Shop for more seasonal favorites.
More holiday inspiration: A Guide to Dressing Warm and Stylish This Holiday Season