A preview of holiday dressing 2026

Here are some stunning finds for holiday dressing this season featuring unexpectedly lush fabrics, finishes and accessories.

Let’s start from the ground up, with silk, satin and jacquard shoes from Reformation in a surprising array of colors. Calista Flat in Chartreuse by Reformation will put anyone in the mood to celebrate. Or Inez Flat Mule in Honey Mustard Satin gets the party started in style. Reformation’s Wells Slingback Heel in Light Blue Jacquard is another sensational shoe.

Le Monde Beryl’s Velvet Pump in Midnight Blue or Burgandy creates its own air of intrigue.  A Satin Wedge Mule by Alaia in Vert Lichen brings back old Hollywood style this season. Want to add some sparkle to your look? Roger Vivier’s Metallic Leather Slingback Pump in Silver will do just that and more.

All that glitters is gold with Aquazzura’s Mirrored Leather Sandal in what else, gold, is about as minimalist a look as you can find without compromising glamour.

If an evening gown is part of your holiday cheer, it’s all about red with Aqua’s Long Scuba Strapless Dress with pointed corset top and satin skirt. There’s Aqua’s Strapless Velvet Bodice Gown in Burgundy if you prefer a contrasting velvet top.

Or the ultra-feminine Theia’s Theresa Draped Tulle Gown in Begonia made of layers of vibrant tulle, seamed waist and cascading front drape with pooled hem that’s as light as a feather and so very chic.

Wishing for an evening gown that shines ever so brightly? How about Terri Jon’s Pleated Off–Shoulder Satin Column Gown in Champagne? For a formal, understated look, this Astros Draped Crystal Trim Halter Gown in Black by Rebecca Vallance featuring crystals along the neckline with front diamond cutout and gathered drape is classic screen siren.

For a more youthful look, there’s Claudie’s Satin Ruffle Collar Dress in Hydrangea with Victorian-style ruffled V-neck collar and finely ruffled bodice.

Need a gorgeous bag for that gown? I like Saint Laurent’s Kate Cassandre Embellished Tasseled Velvet Shoulder Bag in Black. Or add Khaite’s Donna Suede Clutch in Gray made of calf leather with burnished gold panel to your wishlist.

Separates make holiday dressing easy and versatile like Saint Laurent’s Lavalliere Silk Long-Sleeve Blouse in Thyme crafted in sheer silk muslin, with bow-tie neckline and coordinating cuffs. A crisp white Long-Sleeve Notched Collar Poplin Blouse by Arkis of stretch cotton with tonal princess seaming and barrel cuffs works with almost any skirt or pant. Pair this with Claudie’s Flared Ruffled Midi Skirt in Black, fitted through the legs with two flared ruffles at the hemline, for understated elegance.

A fun vintage look I like is TWP’s Patti Ruffle Cotton-Silk Blouse in Kelp. Featuring a band collar, this cropped lightweight blouse has ruffles running down the bib. Pair it with Claudie’s Satin Lace Skirt in Bronze, a flowing midi skirt with matching tonal lace trim lining a side slit.

For those who prefer truly understated holiday dressing with a nod to both modern and vintage, this Paisley Jacquard Vest by Etro mixes slate blues with earth tones for a contemporary take on what’s old becoming new. Its oversized pewter buttons are the ultimate finishing detail on this French waistcoat revival.  Thrown over a silk blouse and wool mini skirt, it’s just right for an afternoon get-together with friends.

Etro’s cropped Wool Blend Jacket in Dark Blue is another vintage look to consider if sparkle  isn’t your aesthetic. With contrasting satin trim collar, small round brass buttons and welt pockets, try softening its vintage military look with a satin skirt and pointed toe tie-up booties.    

Whatever your holiday style, there are plenty of great pieces from which to choose. Need styling advice? Email our fashion editor at info@velvetjournal.com to be entered to win a complimentary one-hour styling session.