December has officially arrived, and it’s time to start thinking about what to wear for the holiday season. Sorry, but it’s true! No matter how much you plan on enjoying a low-key (or fancy!) vacation, there’s no denying that a celebratory dinner or office party will be on your social calendar at some point. And when that happens, you need to be armed with a great look. Here are the challenges for this season. How can you make it look thematically festive without looking like you’re dressed up as a full Christmas tree? The key, according to several stylish stars, is to ditch the expected sequins and velvet and style a more discreet wardrobe staple: a classic white shirt. Please listen.
Over the past few weeks, A-listers have stepped out wearing sophisticated looks that are timeless and subtle, yet with a thoroughly modern feel. Celebrities such as Gwyneth Paltrow. Keki Palmer and Cara Delevingne build their ensembles around a classic white button-up shirt (be it cotton or silk) and pair it with a pencil skirt on a suit for an elegant finish. This look is in stark contrast to the heavily embellished, over-the-top dresses we’ve come to expect during the holiday season, which is why it feels unexpectedly fresh. Sarah Jessica Parker, for example, recently wore a silky shirt with a long black overcoat and crystal-encrusted accessories (very Carrie).
There’s something about the simplicity of a white shirt that makes any ensemble feel effortless. Of course, its beauty also lies in its versatility. A white shirt can be dressed up or down as much as you like. Would you like to go to a more casual festival party? Taking cues from Eiza González, who paired a collared top with a slouchy gray suit, she embraced tailoring for comfort. Would you like to enjoy a more luxurious holiday dinner? You might take some style cues from Gwyneth Paltrow, who paired a white blouse with a gray floor-length wool skirt. (The look is reminiscent of “The Holiday” and is definitely Cameron Diaz.)
In other words, investing in the right white shirt is the secret shortcut to always having the perfect holiday look on hand. The next time you’re trying to think of a dazzling party outfit? Ditch the sequins, heavy velvet, and bows, grab your best white top, jazz it up with a strategic skirt or pants, and throw on a party. Let’s get you in the mood. You’ll thank me later. You will unexpectedly be the best dressed person in the room.
Below, check out white shirt looks to inspire your next holiday look.
