Black Friday 2025: Shoe Sales To Check Out

Holiday season is upon us! Thanksgiving is this week, and Christmas and New Year's eve will be here before we know it! That means it's time to start thinking about those holiday outfits, from family get-togethers to office parties. I am one who likes to keep things comfortable and feel like my true self, regardless of the occasion. So when it's time to look the part for special occasions, I like to strike a good balance between decking up and not drifting too far from my usual style. The good news is that getting in the mood of the season doesn't mean overhauling your wardrobe. It simply means introducing some key elements to your regular assortment. Here are 5 simple tips to instantly transform what you typically wear into a posh holiday outfit.

1. Wear Sequins!

Sequins are like the confetti of fashion, tiny sparks that transform an ordinary outfit into a celebration! Sequins come in all kinds of garment types, think tops, camis, pants, blazers, pants and skirts. You can score just about any of your closet favorites in a sequin version. But, you don't need a lot as elevating an outfit to party status doesn't call for a head-to-toe sequin move. Just go for a small dose to keep your everyday cool while also looking the party part. For instance, you could simply add a sequin blazer to a jeans and tee outfit to elevate it, or pair your favorite sweater with a sequin skirt for the office party. The options are really endless, and the cherry on top is that sequins are available in many variations and at affordable price points.

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2. Go For a Maxi Fur Coat

Fur is in y'all! I'm seeing a lot of big, soft and fluffly fur coats displayed in store windows and they're not leaving me indifferent! A good fur coat adds maximum glam to even the simplest of outfits. Throw a fur coat on top of a sweater dress and boots and you're sure to make an entrance. I recently purchased this faux fur coat and can't wait to wear it this season. One outfit idea I plan on trying is jeans with a leopard mesh top, ballet flats and my fur coat. This ensemble gives glamorous comfy chic and it's perfect for casual holiday parties.

Lovers and Friends Ernie Fur Coat via Revolve

ASOS DESIGN longline faux fur belted jacket in chocolate

Topshop faux fur longline striped coat in brown coat at ASOS

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3. Bring Out the Formal Dress Pumps and Clutches

Of all the pieces that make up an outfit, shoes are the most important in my view. They can make or break an outfit, and they also carry most of the outfit vibe. Like you could wear the dressiest suit, but if you paired it with sneakers, it would instantly look a little more dressed down and casual. Conversely, you could wear a casual jeans and tee outfit, but instantly elevate it with pointy leather pumps. And when it comes to party dressing, shoes and especially dress pumps can play a decisive part. Velvet pumps, patent leather pumps, or satin pumps with crystal details — think Manolo Blahnik's signature Hangisi jeweled pumps — are the perfect touches to impart a festive vibe to an outfit. So are clutches, or minaudières as the French call them. A small or oversized clutch is an easy way to adorn a look for the holidays.

Dolce Vita Elizza Confetti Heels

Ann Taylor Suede Embellished Slingback Pumps

Alexis Bittar Pouf Clutch in Merlot

Marc Jacobs Glam Clutch in Black

Aimee Kestenberg Chill Out Frame Clutch

JW Pei Black Crystal Top Handle Bag

4. Step Up Your Makeup

Ok, there's nothing wrong with the everyday understated face with the neutral lipstick, light eyeliner and subtle bronzer but when you want to elevate your look, going bolder with your makeup is sure to do the trick. A smoky metallic eye or a bold red lipstick with some highlighting action are other ways to dial up the festive mood, even with an ordinary outfit such as straight pants and a billowy blouse.

MAC Cosmetics Red Lipstick

Huda Beauty Eyeshadow Palette at Sephora

Anastasia Soft Glam Eyeshadow Palette at Ulta

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5. Accessorize With Statement Jewelry

Statement jewelry is the ultimate shortcut to instant glamour. Crystals, bold gemstones, and creative designs can transform even the simplest outfit into something festive. Pieces such as chandelier earrings, an oversized brooch, a sculptural cuff bracelet or a crystal-encrusted necklace don't just accessorize, they set the tone ensuring your look feels elevated without being overdone.

J.Crew Crystal Collar Necklace

Marc Jacobs Drop Earrings

Swarovski Cuff Bracelet

Crystal Hoop Earrings at Macy's

Swarovski Statement Crystal Ring

So, as you can see, spinning your everyday looks into party-ready outfits doesn't require much. With the right pieces, you can make any outfit look intentionally festive. Which one is these tips will you try this holiday season? Chime in below!

Wide-leg pants are my favorite pant silhouette. They're super versatile and work with just about any tops in any season, from Summer to Fall and Winter. I recently scored these faux leather dark brown wide-leg pants at Target and have been wearing them on repeat since. So far, I've gone for monochrome brown outfits and red and brown color-blocked looks because those palettes work so well for Fall. Keep reading for some inspo on styling brown leather pants in the Fall and maybe Winter.

Brown Faux Leather Pants with a Striped Shirt and Leather Blazer

Wide-leg pants are great for creating those menswear-inspired looks. For this outfit, I paired my brown Target pants with a bold striped oversized shirt and a matching brown leather blazer. The chocolate brown appeal for me lies in its rich earthy aura, one that elevates any garment. To spice up the look, I opted for a red tie and red pumps. This is a relaxed yet striking color-blocked outfit that is perfect for the office and business meetups. You could go for a simple oversized tote, or opt for something more complex such as this Marc Jacobs Sack hobo bag in patched brown leather. Speaking of Marc Jacobs, they've recently opened a store at the Southdale Mall in Edina and I highly recommend it for those of you living in or visiting the Twin Cities! It carries everything from bags to clothing and shoes and the staff is super helpful.

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Brown Faux Leather Pants with a Belted Oversized Blazer

Keeping in tune with the previous look, I went for another blazer but this time, a little more oversized, in a camel brown color, and cinched with a wide leather belt. Another office-perfect Fall outfit that oozes both business casual and street-style chic. For a pop of color with this brown tonal look, I added a red handbag.

Brown Faux Leather Pants with a Longline Sweater

First things first, what I'm wearing as a sweater here is actually a mini dress — a tall girl's gotta do what a tall girl's gotta do! Both the sweater (dress) and pants are from Target so you know you're in for a lot of style without breaking the bank. What I love about that sweater: the high turtleneck, wide-rib texture as well as the raglan sleeves. It's truly a comfy and timeless piece that can be paired with so many things. And I like that the color matches the pants perfectly hence creating a sleek monochrome outfit. You could wear the sweater loose or go for a wide waist belt for a tailored effect. Brown shoes and a brown bag would also work, but if you're feeling adventurous like I was, go for a red pop of color.

Which of these 3 looks would you wear? How have you styled your brown leather pants if you have a pair? Chime in below!