How I Styled an Easy Desk-to-Holiday-Party Outfit

How I Styled an Easy Desk-to-Holiday-Party Outfit

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It's that time of the year, when your mind's mostly on gift shopping and joining in the festivities, while you also have to tend to your professional obligations. This means the occasional desk to dinner riddle that calls for versatile dressing you can rock both at the office and the after-hour holiday party. For those of us who have a long commute, going home to change before the party is out of question. And hauling a whole other outfit with us feels like yet another step that would complicate the morning routine. And you have to think about the logistics of changing in restrooms that are not always equipped for that purpose. That's when going for an outfit that can easily transition between a corporate setting and a party is key. A busy-mom-proof way to achieve this is to go for a simple base with just the right amount of pizzazz to not clash with the work dress code, yet snazzy enough for a night time outing.Β 

I started with a pair of bright red slim barrel pants in a gilded Kente material. Red is the perfect color for those who feel more adventurous than going for the typical black party look. To balance the bright red hue, I opted for an oxblood pairing with a ribbed merino sweater, a wide belt, and pointed dress boots. These pieces in this distinctive contrast create the perfect base for layering.Β 

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Similar silver metallic pantsΒ |Β other pants | other pants | other pants | similar bootsΒ | other boots

For the office, I simply layered my sweater with an oxblood-colored blazer with gold buttons to coordinate with the gilted pattern of the pants. I finished the look with my burgundy leather handbag because it fits everything I need for a day at work, including my laptop. This outfit is simple yet packs a bold punch that is sure to make a bold impression without looking over the top.

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To transition to the after-work feats, I just swapped the burgundy blazer with aΒ jeweled-tone red fur jacket. Fur is always going to bring a touch of glam, and with this outfit, the red fur makes for an elegant tonal look. I also swapped the larger bag with a smaller metallic gold chain bag (similar gold bag, other similar gold bag) to dial up the occasionwear vibe. I kept the boots, but one option would be to go for party pumps such as satin heels or velvet heels.

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Similar fur jacket | other similar fur jacket

As you can see, going from desk to party is as simple as wearing a good, classic base and layering it intentionally to match the mood. Whether it's a blazer or cardigan for work, or a fur jacket or sequin blazer for after-work, starting your look with versatile pieces will set you up for maximum style on the go.

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Black Friday 2025: Shoe Sales To Check Out

Black Friday 2025: Shoe Sales To Check Out

Now is a good time to refresh your shoe collection if you've been thinking about it. A lot of retailers have been advertising some pretty enticing discounts since last week and continuing into this week. Here are some places you should check out if you're in need of office shoes such as pumps and boots, or more casual options like sneakers.

Check out my Black Friday shoe picks here

1. Ann Taylor

Ann Taylor may not be the first place that comes to mind for shoes, but they have a lot to offer in the shoe department. I love their collection especially the low heel pumps with the square-toe and slingback silhouette. I just got these burgundy pumps and am obsessed! The entire site is 50% off.

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2. Stuart Weitzman Outlet

Imagine scoring 40% off on top of already deeply discounted prices. That's what the Stuart Weitzman outlet is currently offering and I'm seriously coveting the Valentina boots!

3. Sarah Flint

You just can't go wrong with the Sarah Flint Perfect Pumps 85! I have two pairs of those, one in haircalf leopard, and another one in a cobalt blue and love their classic and comfy design. The entire site is currently 30% off!

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4. Adidas

No pressure, but I think everyone needs a pair of Adidas Samba sneakers. They are the easiest way to dress down an outfit without looking undone. They come in a wide range of colors so there's something for everyone. I have them in the leather version in both a bright orange and a rich burgundy, and am currently eyeing this olive colorway while it's 20% off for Black Friday. Which color would you go for?Β 

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5. Sam Edelman

The iconic shoe brand has a 35% additional discount on sale items so now is a good time to browse the sale section. I have a lot of Sam Edelman shoes, mostly boots and pumps and am excited that two of the items on my wishlist are included in the sale. Check out the Usha ankle boots and also theΒ Sylvia knee-high boots in red. Those would make for such a snazzy pop of color with Winter outfits!

6. M.Gemi

This italian brand delivers a luxury italian shoe experience at attainable price points. I am a fan of the Marzia low heel pumps and have them in black and off-white. They're seasonless, give off a polished yet effortless vibe, and pair with most closet favorites, be it jeans or dressy pants. The brand is offering a 30% discount for Black Friday so make sure you check it out!

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7. LarroudΓ©

With a selection that spans everything from sneakers to platform heels and sleek boots, LarroudΓ© is a brand to pin at the top of your shoe shopping list. This past Summer, I was all about their Verona platform sandals (check out this post on how to style white pants and raffia sandals in the Summer) and this holiday season, I will be putting myΒ Ines pumps in wine velvet to work! The entire site is up to 50% off for Black Friday.

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5 Easy Tips to Instantly Transform Your Everyday Outfits into Party Looks

5 Easy Tips to Instantly Transform Your Everyday Outfits into Party Looks

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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Β 

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

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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.

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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!

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what else piques your interest?