15 Unexpected Holiday Outfit Ideas That Will Make Your Closet Look Like New

unexpected holiday outfit with sequins

After the entire holiday party season was all but cancelled last year, we are more ready than ever to rock our best holiday outfits to the office, dinner parties, and family get-togethers. But as much as we love basic outfit formulas, we want to get creative! That's why we rounded up 15 ideas that will make you stand out from the crowd. Break out the velvet, find all the sequins you can, and dust off your heels because it's time to party!

Wear Unexpected Colors

[pinterest_embed https://www.pinterest.com/pin/625930048206142579/ expand=1]

www.pinterest.com

Pastels

When it's cold outside, there are only so many ways to shake up your look without shedding layers — you need to stay warm! One way to keep things interesting is to look for colors that will make you stand out. Pastels are about to become your best friend because they're not just for spring. Rock a baby blue sweater or a pink coat.

[pinterest_embed https://www.pinterest.com/pin/163888873923769616/ expand=1]

www.pinterest.com

Warm Neutrals

Your holiday parties are going to be full of go-to outfit colors like red, green, gold. If you want to keep things dark instead of going with a pastel or white, brown is a great option because it's warm and muted but still looks fresh. A two-toned outfit is even better!

[pinterest_embed https://www.pinterest.com/pin/492649949521237/ expand=1]

www.pinterest.com

Muted Tones

If you're a traditionalist and want to stick with red or green this season, try to find tones that are out of the ordinary, like a sweater + dress combo with a little bit of gray added in. It still looks festive, but because it isn't Christmas-card vivid, you can wear it the rest of the year.

Pair Different Textures In The Same Holiday Outfit

[pinterest_embed https://www.pinterest.com/pin/455285843579629280/ expand=1]

www.pinterest.com

Fur + Sequins

Fur and sequins are both winter staples, so why not combine them?! This DIY disco ball kimono is the perfect addition to that Christmas dress you just bought or the jumpsuit you can't wait to rock at New Year's. Since it's a DIY, you can customize the colors to make sure it matches your style just right.

[pinterest_embed https://www.pinterest.com/pin/35395547059687865/ expand=1]

www.pinterest.com

Leather + Sequins

One of our favorite things to do is stick to a strict color palette and then go crazy with textures. Exhibit A: fur, leather, and a sequin tank? *Chef's kiss*. Keep the colors simple, and just make sure your accessories match the rest of the outfit.

[pinterest_embed https://www.pinterest.com/pin/2392606043555076/ expand=1]

www.pinterest.com

Dimensional Textures

Go-to Christmas colors like red and white will make you do a double take when they're made from materials like lace, mohair, and jacquard. Even though there are only two pieces in this look, the dimension in the fabrics, the silhouette, and the detailing on the skirt make it unique.

Mix Streetwear And Formal Pieces

[pinterest_embed https://www.pinterest.com/pin/2462974785734595/ expand=1]

www.pinterest.com

Joggers + Heels

Sometimes you just need something extra comfy. Add some heels and a blazer to your softest sweatpants and boom! An instantly stylish 'fit. Pick sweats in a festive color to make your outfit holiday-appropriate.

[pinterest_embed https://www.pinterest.com/pin/106819822394878491/ expand=1]

www.pinterest.com

Dress + Sneakers

Ever since we saw Emma Roberts rock that sequin dress and Adidas sneakers in Nerve, we haven't been able to stop thinking about it. Holiday parties are a great time to make this trend your own — pick red Chucks to go with a green dress, or rock a monochromatic look.

[pinterest_embed https://www.pinterest.com/pin/60798663699875951/ expand=1]

www.pinterest.com

Tee + Skirt

To tone down a satin skirt, tuck a tee (or sweatshirt, depending on how cold it is) into the band. You'll get a casual edge that doesn't overpower the nicer pieces, especially when it's under a faux fur coat. Slide on some boots and a nice bag and you're ready to hit the town.

Find Holiday Outfits For Warmer Temps

[pinterest_embed https://www.pinterest.com/pin/76561262405635016/ expand=1]

www.pinterest.com

Warm Cuts in Holiday Tones

If you live somewhere that's a bit warmer in the winter, don't feel like you have to wear sweaters or coats for every holiday party. Pick some of your favorite warm-weather pieces in holiday colors, like a white sleeveless top and green pants or a red sequin top and shorts.

[pinterest_embed https://www.pinterest.com/pin/160651911698177075/ expand=1]

www.pinterest.com

Button Down + Claw Clip

An oversized button down, cutoffs, and a claw clip is one of our favorite things to wear when it's warm outside, and it's also an easy outfit to transfer to winter. Add a red lip, gold accessories, and strappy sandals, and you have a holiday party outfit that's chic-meets-casual. Add mom jeans and a teddy coat for cooler nights.

[pinterest_embed https://www.pinterest.com/pin/306737424630530883/ expand=1]

www.pinterest.com

Festive Motifs

Classic winter pieces like a sweater and a satin skirt are must-haves for holiday party season, but change things up with summery motifs and colors for a look that transcends the four seasons. Bonus points if your outfit matches your cocktail!

Step Up Your Accessories

[pinterest_embed https://www.pinterest.com/pin/447052700518300067/ expand=1]

www.pinterest.com

Strappy Heels + Statement Socks

Warm up your tried-and-true strappy heels with some statement socks. Go for a sheer and decorated pair if you're wearing more delicate shoes, or go all-out with chunky platforms and thick, festive knit socks.

[pinterest_embed https://www.pinterest.com/pin/11329436553377228/ expand=1]

www.pinterest.com

Gems and Appliques

Shoes and jewelry aren't the only accessories that will add personality to your look. In lieu of earrings and eyeshadow, use gems to add color and shine to your lids. Don't forget the cosmetic adhesive!

[pinterest_embed https://www.pinterest.com/pin/116671446584041091/ expand=1]

www.pinterest.com

Holographic Accessories

These DIY holographic boots are the perfect way to score a new pair of shoes *and* make use of a pair that you never wear anymore. They'll add shine and dimension to your outfit, with very little effort! All you need is spray paint, Mod Podge, and cellophane for some one-of-a-kind footwear.

Subscribe to our email newsletter for more holiday outfit ideas!

Why choose between comfort and practicality when you can have both with cozy house shoes that work just as well outside as they do inside? These 11 house shoes are perfect for lounging around at home, stepping out to grab the mail, or picking up a quick coffee – they’ll all definitely keep your feet warm and supported, no matter where the day takes you!

Get ready to upgrade your at-home footwear game with these comfy and chic house shoes. You’ll never want to take them off!

SeaVees

SeaVees Tiburon Trekkers

I have these slip-ons, and I truly wear them everywhere. From the climbing gym to coffee shops and grocery stores, they're so comfy, and they've only gotten comfier as I've worn them more.

Though I wear 'em out pretty frequently, I tend to reach for them the most as house shoes to protect my feet (and also keep them warm!) for walking my dog, household chores, and work-from-home days.

The suede upper material makes them the perfect elevated-yet-casual shoe for staying in or going out, plus they boast a durable Vibram sole that easily stands up to outside terrain.

Anthropologie

UGG Tazz Platform Slippers

One thing UGG truly nails in the way of house shoes is warmth. Their signature lining (in this case, made of upcycled wool) is perfectly dense and soft, so you never have to worry about your toesies getting too cold.

What seals the deal on this pair in particular for me is their trend-factor – all the cool girls are wearing UGGs at the moment. The platform soles give you a nice boost, too, so you're not stuck leaving the house for errands in a scuffed-up, worn-flat slipper.

Nordstrom

Dearfoams Fireside Sydney Genuine Shearling Scuff Slippers

You'll also get so much warmth from these house shoes' 100% Australian sheepskin lining. It's designed to regulate temperatures, so your feet won't feel overly hot or cold – just right! I simply adore this cozy baby pink color, plus how easy the style is to slip on and off.

Amazon

Knuaka Happy Face House Shoes

These house shoes earn major style points in my book. The happy face just makes me happy! The faux fur material they're made of reminds me of boucle, which is oh-so bougie.

These are also fitted with a memory foam insole, so you can step and stand in them for hours on end without pesky foot pain. The outsoles are dense and durable so you can easily walk on pavement when it's time to leave the house.

Chacos

Chacos Ramble Rugged Canvas Clogs

Chacos describes these clogs as a "hoodie for your feet," and suddenly, I need them. The soft fleece lining undoubtedly make these feel like proper house shoes, though the water-resistant canvas upper and textured outsole come prepared for any terrain.

I would absolutely invest in these to wear outdoor rock climbing or camping, but let's be real – I would never take them off when I'm at home. I'm particularly obsessed with the adjustable strap that always ensures a snug, cozy fit.

Free People

Laidback London Jude Slippers

These moccasin-esque slippers are sturdy enough for indoor and outdoor wear, thanks to the high-quality rubber soles. The shearling lining looks insanely warm and cozy, whether you wear 'em with or without socks.

They're definitely stylish enough that you could easily style them with cuffed jeans and a vintage cable knit sweater for when you need to beat a case of cabin fever. Obsessed!

Birkenstock

Birkenstock Zermatt Shearling Slippers

Though your regular ol' Birkenstock Bostons could suffice as house shoes, these slippers are specifically designed to wear around your place. While the outer portion of these shoes is made from a low-pile wool, the insides are lined with genuine shearling for maximum warmth. Plus, how cute is this pop of red?!

L.L. Bean

L.L. Bean Daybreak Scuffs

L.L. Bean makes the cutest house shoes around – specifically these slides that come in multiple colorways with a variety of motifs. Shoppers have said that these make "a great slipper with a little whimsy," which already has me sold! Your cold feet will certainly fall in love with the super-soft fleece lining on these babies.

Anthropologie

UGG Tasman Crafted Regenerate Slippers

UGG strikes again! These almost remind me of boat shoes, so you could surely take them outside to run errands or attend a book club meeting. They're lined with 60% upcycled wool and 40% TENCEL Lyocell to keep your steps extremely warm and comfortable. I love the stitching and paneling on the outer part for added visual interest!

Teva

Teva ReEmber Terrain Slip-Ons

If you're not super into heavily-lined house shoes, these Teva slip-ons are perfect for you. They're beloved by outdoorsy people because they're an easy, comfy shoe to slip into after long backpacking trips or painstaking climbing sends.

The foam footbed is unbelievably cushy, so every step will feel like pure heaven. The outsole is quite the opposite – it's super durable and fitted with enough traction to grip outdoor terrain. If you are craving a bit more warmth at home, just layer 'em up with some cute socks!

Amazon

EverFoams Fuzzy Open-Toe Slippers

These slippers balance warmth breathability perfectly, thanks to their open-toe design. I like that the double straps look a bit more polished than if they were to have just one. The faux fur material on the upper and memory foam insoles work together to deliver all-day comfort to your feet, while the non-slip rubber soles can truly handle any surface – inside or out.

Subscribe to our newsletter to shop more cozy styles for the season!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

I truly feel like I’ve been living under a rock when it comes to what’s good at Whole Foods. Turns out, they’ve been hiding some really impressive deals on groceries in the shadows, but I’m here to shed some light on ‘em. Whole Foods offers savings every week, and I’m fully convinced that my local Whole Foods will be seeing a whole lot more of me from now on.

Scroll on for details on Whole Foods’ top deals to shop starting today!

Kaboompics / PEXELS

1. BOGO 50% off packaged soups (Tuesdays)

Tuesdays and Fridays are the main days of the week that Whole Foods offers savings on their groceries. The first amazing deal for Tuesdays is BOGO 50% off packaged soups – perfect for this time of year!

They’ve got every kind of flavor from minestrone and chicken noodle to Italian wedding and broccoli cheddar. Their packaged soups average out at about $9 per 24-ounce tub, so saving 50% on one when you buy one is pretty good, especially for meal prep purposes.

Lukas / PEXELS

2. $2 off classic and organic rotisserie chickens (Tuesdays)

You can take $2 off two kinds of Whole Foods’ rotisserie chickens every Tuesday. Their classic rotisserie chicken goes for $9 while the organic version sells for $13. I love using rotisserie chicken for soups, sandwiches, wraps, and pastas, so getting a whole chicken to use for recipes all week long for just $7 is so nice!

Nadin Sh / PEXELS

3. $8 large cheese pizzas (Friday)

Sometimes you just do not feel like cooking on a Friday evening after work – that’s where this Whole Foods savings hack comes in! Every Friday, you can get a large cheese pizza for $8. While there’s nothing wrong with a plain cheese pizza (nostalgia galore!), I’d take advantage of this deal then bulk up my slices with various toppings like peppers, pepperoni, and olives.

Nadin Sh / PEXELS

4. 12 for $12 wild caught oysters (Friday)

Ooh, fancy! Every Friday, Whole Foods’ wild caught oysters go for $1 a pop. Buy a dozen for just $12, and you’re golden. This deal would be perfect for a bougie at-home date night.

Pixabay / PEXELS

5. BOGO 50% off packaged sushi rolls (Friday)

This is another great date night pick! Buy one packaged sushi roll, and get another 50% off on Fridays only. From rainbow rolls to California rolls, this Whole Foods savings hack has my cravings going crazy.

Minchephoto Photography / PEXELS

6. $10 family-sized tiramisu (Friday)

Got a hankering for a sweet treat? Don’t fret – you can shop a whole family-sized serving of tiramisu at Whole Foods for just $10 every Friday.

Kseniia Lopyreva / PEXELS

7. $12 bottles of prosecco (Friday)

The death of the work week and start of the weekend is obviously a cause for celebration, and Whole Foods has you covered with $12 bottles of Presto prosecco every Friday. Cheers!

Subscribe to our newsletter to discover more deals!

If you've got a New Year's Eve party on the docket this season, we've got all the inspo you could possibly need for a fire outfit! From sequined get-ups to quiet luxury looks, we absolutely love to see what everyone puts on for the countdown to the new year. Get ready to shake up some tasty New Year’s cocktails, get your boogie on, and take some amazing Instagram pics before the ball drops.

Ring in 2025 in style with these stunning New Year's Eve outfit ideas!

Erin Sheehan

Leather pants will always make a statement, no matter where you wear 'em.

Emily Russell

If you want to be The Moment at this year's NYE party, don't be afraid to have fun with your outfit! This iconic sequined dress and hot pink gloves combo def catches our eye.

Meredith Holser

Sequins galore! Pop on a matching set with your favorite boots and a chain belt to easily accessorize.

Olivia Shea

Save this outfit formula – sequin mini dress, tights, and a blazer – for an easy NYE outfit. You could easily shop your 'fit from thrift stores or secondhand shops if you're putting together a look at the last minute.

Kayla Walden

This little tweed matching set is giving all the luxe looks you need for an elegant NYE get-together.

Meredith Holser

If a big blowout NYE party is calling your name, you might want to dress a little lighter. Big parties can get crowded and rowdy, so be prepared to sweat it out in a mini dress and practical, dance-friendly boots.

Erin Sheehan

The texture on this dress is everything. If you want your New Year's Eve outfit to stand out, opt for a piece with an interesting texture, pattern, or eye-catching color!

Kayla Walden

There's nothing a little black dress can't do! Break up the piece a bit by styling your go-to LBD with a colorful belt around the waist. We also adore the statement earrings in this gorgeous gal's ensemble!

Meredith Holser

Speaking of interesting patterns, leopard and cheetah prints are hot right now. Whether you don it on a top, pants, skirt, dress, or accessories, you'll be looking so chic.

Olivia Shea

Okay, fur coat! This layered outfit idea is fully convincing us to make a beeline to the thrift and find the fluffiest jacket around. Pair one with a basic black dress and tights, and you're golden.

Emily Russell

We're head over heels with this frilly, fringey look. The sheer fabrics add a hint of flirtiness, which is all you need for a fun NYE function!

Kayla Walden

Leather jackets were practically made for New Year's Eve outfits. We adore the trench-length of this one, especially when worn with a maxi dress that's just as long.

Olivia Shea

Another pop of cheetah print! This NYE outfit idea has it all, from playful prints to shiny sequins.

Meredith Holser

This 'fit would be excellent for an at-home NYE celebration, where you want to look cute, but don't want to feel uncomfortable. Mini dress + cardigan + socks + ballet flats have never been so adorable!

Emily Russell

You can never go wrong with a fun pair of tights!

Subscribe to our newsletter for more outfit inspo for every occasion!

As much as I love celebrity couples, I love celebrity sibling relationships even more. And Elle and Dakota Fanning are two sisters I've grown up watching since I first saw Dreamer in 2005. Considering Elle Fanning is only five months older than me, and I have a sister of my own, this is one relationship that feels particularly familiar. And while Elle has also watched Dakota Fanning act since we were kids, Dakota just revealed seeing Elle onscreen is just as special for her.

Here's why Dakota & Elle Fanning get emotional seeing each other onscreen.

Elle remembers "sobbing" during one particularly emotional Dakota Fanning movie.

“When Elle’s in anything, it makes me feel it deeper,” Dakota Fanning said at TheWrap’s Power Women Summit on December 3. “She never can fully disappear into a character totally for me as her sister. She obviously does an amazing job, but I’m always gonna see my little sister a little bit.”

And Elle is just as touched by Dakota's roles, and remembers "uncontrollably sobbing" after seeing Now Is Good, a movie where Dakota's character was dying of cancer. “Because it was my sister, I had a real traumatic reaction after that premiere and the screening,” Elle says. “Obviously the acting, but it was something felt on a deeper level.”

“I’m doing this job, I’m an actor because my sister started before me and I watched her,” Elle continues. “I wanted to do exactly what my big sister wanted to do.”

And their movies have also made an impact on everyone who watches them.

When Brit + Co caught up with Dakota Fanning at the world premiere of The Watchers, I had to ask about one of her most iconic movies: Uptown Girls. "I love it," she says of TikTok memes and edits giving the movie new life. "It's nostalgic for people who are kind of around my age, who grew up watching that movie, I think it's like a comfort movie for people. And so I love that people are still revisiting it and loving it. And maybe now that everyone's older [they're] understanding different things about it."

Dakota starred opposite Brittany Murphy, who also had roles in movies like Clueless, 8 Mile, and Girl, Interrupted. Brittany passed away in 2009 when Dakota was 15. "I loved Brittany so much and I still miss her," she says. "So anytime that she has, you know, a moment where people think about her is also nice."

You can see Elle Fanning in A Complete Unknown, in theaters December 25, and you can also stream Dakota Fanning's new show The Perfect Couple on Netflix now.

Heaping plates of Christmas cookies are synonymous with the holidays. It seems that nearly every country around the globe has their own variation on the holiday classic. In fact, some of these regions have been making their version of Christmas cookies for literal hundreds of years.

If you’re looking for a way to reconnect with your heritage, or maybe just want a little baking inspiration, check out our picks for the yummiest Christmas cookies from around the world.

The Noshery

Mantecaditos con Guayaba

These may look like ordinary thumbprint cookies, but these almond shortbreads from Puerto Rico are filled with a special guava marmalade. (via The Noshery)

Broma Bakery

Meringues

French meringues are a classic crumbly egg white cookie with a chewy interior. These get an extra European twist with the addition of Nutella. (via Broma Bakery)

Pretty. Simple. Sweet.

Alfajores

Deeply flavored dulce de leche, a caramel made from whole milk commonly found in Spain and many Latin American countries, is the key ingredient in these super pretty sandwiched Christmas cookies. (via Pretty. Simple. Sweet.)

Fancy Peasant

Melomakarona

These Christmas cookies that hail from Greece get their sweetness from a generous soaking of fresh honey! (via Fancy Peasant)

Very Eatalian

Baci di Dama

The name of this Italian treat translates to “lady’s kisses” — how adorable is that? These bite-sized cuties are made with ground hazelnuts and filled with a dollop of dark chocolate. (via Very Eatalian)

Cooking Classy

Linzer Cookies

These Austrian Christmas cookies are typically made with raspberry jam, but feel free to get crazy with a filling of your choice. Plus, the gorgeous windowpane look will make them a prize takeaway at your next cookie exchange. (via Cooking Classy)

Olivia’s Cuisine

Basler Brunsli

If you’re hanging out in Switzerland around Christmas time, you’ll definitely see these chocolate treats around. They’re often described as Swiss brownies due to their deliciously chewy texture. Perfect with a cup of eggnog or coffee! (via Olivia’s Cuisine)

Cilantro Parsley

Buñuelos

These tender miniature fritters from Mexico are a mix between a donut and cookie. Whatever you want to call them, they’re delicious. (via Cilantro Parsley)

Chef Lindsey Farr

Apricot Kolachys

The Hungarians definitely know what’s up when tart apricot jam gets wrapped in a blanket of flaky pastry. They’re a bright spot on a cold Christmas day. (via Chef Lindsey Farr)

Life, Love and Sugar

Cutout Sugar Cookies

In the United States, a plate of these festively decorated sugar cookies is just what Santa ordered. (via Life, Love and Sugar)

Saveur

Polvorones

You’ll find these simple pecan shortbread cookies all over Mexico around this time of year. The coating of powdered sugar and canela, a type of Mexican cinnamon, really bring the flavor to the next level. (via Saveur)

A Healthy Life for Me

Pignoli

These Italian Christmas cookies are made of a chewy almond base and topped with pine nuts. (via A Healthy Life for Me)

Fancy Peasant

Kourabiedes

These Greek Christmas cookies feature a buttery biscuit topped with mass amounts of powdered sugar. (via Fancy Peasant)

Does your family have a traditional cookie recipe for the holidays? Tag us @BritandBo in your Instagram photos and let us know!

This post has been updated with additional reporting by Meredith Holser.

Lead image via Pretty. Simple. Sweet.