The holidays shouldn't mean wardrobe stress.

Between the parties, family gatherings, and holiday shopping, getting dressed can feel like one more thing on your already-full plate. But it doesn't have to be that way.

Keep it simple with these universal colors and comfortable yet elevated fabrics, so you can focus on enjoying the season and not overthinking your outfit.

Note that I do not earn commissions on any of the items linked below. These are simply brands that I recommend, based on past experience.
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Universal colors are colors that look good on almost everyone, regardless of your color season. If you’re in a holiday crunch and want to make sure the dress or top you order will be flattering, these three colors work beautifully across all skin tones, which means less guessing and more confidence when you're getting ready.

Simple, elegant, and surprisingly versatile for the season, winter white (a neutral off-white) is timeless. For an elevated holiday look, wear winter white from head to toe or with one of your other favorite neutrals. Wear a winter white top with a bottom in your favorite holiday color for a fun yet classic pairing. Think of winter white as your blank canvas that makes everything else pop. One of all-time favorite holiday looks is a monochromatic winter white outfit with the perfect shade of red lipstick (see above). If you decide to go monochromatic, add visual interest through texture (like I am with the cable knit bolero) or shine.

Here are some of my favorite winter white pieces this season:

The one shade of red that works for everyone, burgundy is festive yet more subtle than the bright red of Santa’s suit.

Pair it with pink, winter white, black or a deep chocolate brown as some possible color combinations. Another one of my favorite all-time holiday looks is a velvet dress in burgundy.

Check out these options I’ve picked for the season:

Holiday-ready and universally flattering. Especially with Wicked: For Good just out this past week, you’ll be sure to balance trendy with timeless.

Due to its high saturation level, emerald green has that jewel-tone richness that photographs beautifully and looks stunning in person. It works as a statement piece or as an accent, your choice.

Some emerald green options I’ve been loving:

The right fabric makes even the simplest piece feel special. These three fabrics take your outfit from everyday to occasion-worthy without any extra effort. But perhaps more importantly, they are versatile and can be worn beyond the holiday season.

Instant luxury. Classic and cozy. Velvet adds depth and a touch of vintage to any look. A velvet blazer over jeans? Elevated. A velvet dress? Effortlessly timeless. Personally, when I think of the holidays, I think of velvet. Over the years I’ve worn various velvet pieces in dark green, burgundy, deep teal, and black.

Here are some of my favorite velvet pieces this season:

The subtle sheen of silk or satin makes anything feel dressy even though it may feel like comfy pajamas. A silk blouse or satin skirt or pants takes you straight from daytime to party-ready.

Elevated comfort for the holidays. Cashmere sweaters, wraps, and cardigans give you that cozy-luxe vibe that works for nearly every holiday occasion.

In my humble opinion, cashmere is worth the investment. Temperature regulating and anti-bacterial, it will keep you warm in the winter and cool in the summer. And because it’s anti-bacterial, you can air it out and not have to wash it every time you wear it. Most of my sweater purchases over the last two years have been cashmere for these two reasons.​

Tip: If you're new to cashmere, try Quince's Mongolian cashmere crewneck sweater (click on photo below). Classic, soft, easy to pack, and comes in a variety of colors! 

Wanna go all black? Here's the key.

Skip dainty or neutral accessories and try colorful ones instead. A fire engine red clutch with your little black dress. Emerald earrings with black pants. Gold or silver flats with black jeans. Colorful accessories make simple outfits feel intentional and festive without any extra effort. It’s a great way to reuse pieces you already have but add an additional touch.

You don't need a closet full of party clothes. You just need a few smart pieces that work together and that are versatile enough to wear beyond the holidays.

Start with:
2-3 pieces in universal colors (winter white, burgundy, emerald)
1-2 comfortable but elevated fabrics (velvet, silk/satin, cashmere)
3-4 colorful accessories (purses, scarves, shoes, jewelry)

Done.

Post-holidays, mix and match these pieces with your wardrobe basics. Consider layering that velvet blazer or cashmere cardigan over a T-shirt and jeans. Wear that silk tank with a pair of shorts in the summer.

That's how you get through the holiday season without the stress and maximize the value from your Black Friday purchases.​

One Dress, Three Ways
1. Casual: Add a denim jacket and ankle boots
2. Dressy: Opt for a cropped faux fur jacket, heels or pointy-toed flats, and statement jewelry
3. Cozy: Layer with a cashmere cardigan or scarf and loafers

Transition Everyday Pieces to Party-Ready
1. Add texture (a velvet blazer or cable-knit cardigan over your basics)
2. Swap your shoes (heels or metallic or patent leather flats instantly elevate)
3. Layer a statement accessory (bold earrings, a statement necklace, or a colorful or metallic clutch)

Holiday dressing doesn't have to be complicated.

Start with these universal colors and comfortable but elevated fabrics, then make it yours. Add your favorite accessories or a statement pair of shoes. Choose the textures you love (I love a good cable-knit in the winter) and the types of pieces that reflect your authentic self.

That's the whole point. Fashion should feel good, not stressful.
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