I don’t know about you, but I have no shame in saying that I’m in full holiday mode. My husband and I put the tree up this weekend, the lights went up outside, and I’ve been chipping away at my Christmas shopping. I saw something online the other day that said “Thanksgiving is IN the Christmas season,” and that is my mantra from now on. And of course, as a part-time holiday season enthusiast and a full-time fashion lover, I’ve already started dreaming about what festive look I’ll wear on Christmas Day. Christmas Day is a casual day for our family, while that evening is filled with a big fancy dinner with extended family. If your dress code for the holidays is laidback but you still want to look chic, you’ve come to the right place. Below you’ll find 16 classy casual Christmas outfits to celebrate in style.
1. fair isle sweater + straight-leg jeans + ankle boots + turtleneck
sweater | jeans | ankle boots | turtleneck | earrings | belt
When I think of festive outfits for the holidays, a Fair Isle print is one of the first things to come to mind! The Fair Isle pattern is nearly synonymous with Christmas time. This is a great choice if you love to dress in neutral colors – this particular style is versatile as it doesn’t just limit you to Christmas, you can wear it all winter long.
Layer it over a tissue paper turtleneck to up the cozy factor. Pair it with straight-leg jeans, and a thin belt to elevate the look. Finish your ensemble off with a pair of sweater ankle boots, and a pair of crystal earrings.
2. cable knit sweater + mini skirt + tights + ballet flats
sweater | skirt | tights | shoes | purse | headband
This next look could be controversial, depending on your definition of “casual.” If your preferred casual outfit is equivalent to Blair Waldorf running errands, this might be the perfect look for you. Start with a cozy cable knit sweater (you can’t get more comfortable than that). Next, add a black mini skirt to balance out the oversized fit of the sweater. Layer it over a pair of swiss dot tights for a fun addition. Finish out the look with square-toed ballet flats, a suede and leather shoulder bag, and a padded velvet headband.
Now you’re ready for Christmas cocktails and a few photos by the Christmas tree!
3. alpaca cardigan + sweater pants + flats + white tee
cardigan | pants | shoes | t-shirt | earrings
Cute Christmas outfits don’t have to be complicated. A little pop of color can easily infuse some holiday cheer into your favorite outfit formula. Festive colors like forest green, burgundy and cherry red are always a great place to start. For this look, swap out your favorite pair of black pants for burgundy sweater pants from J.Crew instead. On top, keep things neutral with a gray alpaca cardigan from Everlane and a white box-cut tee. (This is one of my personal favorites, and if you want other recommendations for quality t-shirts, Carolyn has a whole post about them).
Accessorize with simple silver hoops and you have a holiday look that’s equal parts classy and casual.
4. coordinating pajama set + UGG slippers + cashmere scarf + hat
pajama top | pajama bottoms | slippers | scarf | hat
If your ideal winter morning is filled with a Christmas movie marathon and family Christmas pajamas, you can elevate your holiday loungewear with a matching set. I love a monochromatic look to elevate your outfit, and the same theory applies to pajamas as it does to your business casual looks. A matching set is such an easy way to feel more put together, even in the chaos of Christmas time!
Accessorize with a luxurious cashmere hat and scarf in bright red. Tie the bright color back in when it comes to your UGG platform slippers. This look has all the cozy vibes, with the perfect amount of holiday spirit.
5. satin pants + satin top + duster cardigan + loafers
pants | top | cardigan (and a more affordable version) | loafers | earrings
Speaking of matching sets, this next look could easily transition from watching Christmas movies at home to Christmas plans outside of the house with extended family. Burgundy is a trending color this year, and although it’s always a traditional holiday staple, it’s a great way to add a classy pop of color to your festive top. Plus, the coordinating pants are just as comfortable as the matching satin top.
Add a long duster cardigan to the look for additional warmth – or you can stick to the set if you live in a warm climate! Velvet mules in a coordinating merlot red are the perfect tie-in to the classic but laidback look.
6. cable knit sweater dress + tall boots + suede bag
Classy casual Christmas outfits are easy to put together with one great thing: a sweater dress. It’s so easy to throw on – especially if you’re woken up at the crack of dawn to open gifts. You can also dress it up or down, making it another versatile piece to fit your Christmas plans, whatever they may be.
For a perfect balance of classy and casual, pair it with tall leather boots. If you need to, add a pair of over-the-knee socks or tights underneath. Accessorize with a suede tote if you’re heading out of the house – it could even help carry a few gifts inside. A small pair of no-fuss stud crystal earrings and a gold watch complete the look.
7. black jeans + brushed cardigan + flats + gold earrings
jeans | cardigan | flats | earrings | mini bag
This next look is perfect for your office holiday party. If your place of employment hosts a more laid-back event, classy casual Christmas outfits are the way to go. Start your look with a brushed cardigan sweater in leopard print. Next, add a pair of black pants or jeans. Accessorize with a pair of studded Mary Jane flats, and a simple yet classic pair of gold hoops.
8. plaid coat + turtleneck + jeans + flats
plaid coat | cream turtleneck | jeans | flats | earrings
Take advantage of your capsule wardrobe pieces to put together classy casual Christmas outfits. You certainly don’t need to buy anything new to put together a chic look for the holiday. Try this next look with pieces you already own (or are looking to add to an existing capsule wardrobe).
First, start with a quality turtleneck in a neutral color. Turtlenecks in cream and black are some of the most versatile pieces that you’ll find in my own closet! Next, try a pair of slim jeans with your cozy sweater. This is a universally flattering style, and will look amazing on any body shape or type. On top, add a top coat. It could be one in a pattern like plaid to add interest, or you could add a pop of color if you’d like. Finally, square earrings add a modern touch to update this look for 2024.
Did you know MCO has free shopping guides for a capsule wardrobe? See if you check off everything on the list here.
9. textured satin pants + cashmere sweater + ballet flats
pants | sweater | flats | earrings | bag
I’ve had my eye on these textured satin pants from J.Crew for a while – and I’m here to tell you about why I love them! First, these are a great choice for a low-maintenance look. They come “pre-textured,” which means that you can take a sigh of relief and give your steamer a break. You can go from the floor opening presents to setting the table for dinner to running around with kiddos without having to worry about creasing and wrinkling. They also add a bit of shine and an elevated look to any outfit!
Pair them with a gray turtleneck in a cozy fabric. Accessorize with a bit of Christmas spirit inspired by those shiny gifts under the tree – a metallic crossbody bag and flats complete the look, along with crystal earrings.
10. suede sherpa jacket + turtleneck + utility pants + boots
jacket | turtleneck | utility pants | boots | beanie | bag
My favorite Christmas movie is The Holiday, and if you’ve seen it you know that the movie takes place in the idyllic English countryside. While I may not be heading to Surrey this winter, (hey, a girl can dream, right?) I’m still daydreaming about the best Christmas outfits for a stroll down a snow-covered lane to a cozy country cottage.
Live out your Holiday daydreams with me in this next look. Pair a cream turtleneck with a sherpa suede jacket, and a pair of utility pants. Add a pair of lugsole boots and pom beanie to complete the outfit!
11. sparkle boatneck top + white jeans + ballet flats + suede bag
top | jeans | ballet flats | suede bag | earrings
Bold colors not your thing? No sweat! You can still embrace a festive look by incorporating other details, like sparkle, into your outfit. Pair a sparkle boatneck top with white jeans for a show-stopping look this holiday season. The top also claims to be itch-free, so you can plan on being comfortable all day long!
Add black flats, and a suede bag to accessorize. A pair of gold square earrings complete the perfect holiday outfit.
12. red cardigan + white tee + wide-leg jeans + adidas sambas
cardigan | jeans | sneakers | socks | t-shirt | bag | sunglasses
This look calls to mind some of the Parisian street style that I was able to see in person last fall. One of my favorite takeaways from that trip was the encouragement to try colored socks! They’re the perfect way to lean into a pop of color in an unexpected way. Even better, try coordinating them with a top or sweater for a “sandwich method” look.
Parisian street style is all about simplicity, so you don’t need too much for this look. Add a pair of wide-leg jeans in a medium wash, a white t-shirt, and a pair of Adidas Sambas. A crossbody bag and a pair of chic sunglasses complete the French-approved ensemble!
13. tartan blouse + leather pants + slingback heels
blouse | pants | heels | earrings | bag
Tartan is another fabric that’s perfect for the Christmas or winter season! Style this look if you’re heading to Christmas dinner with the in-laws. First, try a tartan chiffon blouse with a pair of leather pants. The softness of the top balances out the structured pants. Next, add a pair of slingback heels. Slingback heels are a great choice to elongate the length of your legs for a flattering look!
Finish the look with a crossbody leather bag, and subtle gold earrings.
14. matching lounge set + slippers + scarf
top | pants | scarf | earrings | slippers
Enjoy a slow and sweet Christmas morning curled up next to the fire in this matching cable knit sweater set. Sip your coffee and enjoy opening gifts while the Christmas music plays in the background! Can you picture it yet? If so, you’re going to love this coordinating set in a beautiful and festive evergreen from Gap. Pair it with cozy shearling-lined UGG slippers, and a brushed scarf from J.Crew.
15. faux fur jacket + turtleneck + black jeans + ankle boots
jeans | turtleneck | jacket | boots | bag | sunglasses
Bring the drama (the good kind, that is) with this faux fur jacket. Faux fur is another trending piece from the runways this winter season, but you’ll find that this style can be worn from year to year with a bit of creative styling.
This year, try pairing it with an all-black look for an effortlessly chic vibe. Dress to impress when you volunteer to make a hot chocolate run. This look will turn heads! Plus, it’s extra warm to boot.
16. poncho + leggings + white tee + suede tote bag + flats
poncho | leggings | white tee | leather tote bag | flats | earrings
Who wouldn’t want to wear a cozy scarf all day while still looking chic doing it? A plaid poncho is the perfect compromise of effortless style and comfort. Layer it over a long-sleeved tee (or a tank top if you live in a warmer climate). Next, add a pair of leggings. Contrary to popular belief, there are cute and classy leggings looks that you can create with your favorite loungewear! Add a pair of Mary Jane flats and pearl earrings to elevate the look you’ll want to wear all holiday season long.
Classy Casual Christmas Outfits
Make all of your sugar plum dreams come true with classy casual Christmas outfits. Whatever your plans are for this holiday season, you’ll be able to fully enjoy them in a look that’s as comfortable as it is stylish. Enjoy all that this time of year has to offer – good food, family and friends!
Looking for more winter looks (and movie recommendations)? Up Next: Aesthetic Winter Outfits Inspired by Your Favorite Rom-Com
Chic and festive outfit ideas—perfect for the holidays! 🎄✨