Christmas day – what to wear when you have less time to get ready

Christmas day is a big deal!

The expectations are always high on Christmas day and so is the mounting pressure. If you and your family are hosting Christmas day then you know it’s going to be a busy celebration. There will be lots to do, in making it perfect for everyone. One big consideration is always. What should I wear for Christmas Day? On Christmas day you should wear something that fits perfectly, feels festive and looks stylish. Choose something in red, green, black, gold or silver.

Getting ready for Christmas day

happy lady holding large nicely wrapped Christmas gifts, wearing black evening dress
Image by drobotdean on Freepik

Getting yourself ready

In the run up to Christmas, many of us will be wondering about so many crucial things for other people. It’s usually when we are in the middle of all that when we finally stop and think about ourselves for a minute.

If you are hosting on Christmas day, then you will probably ask yourself three big three questions as some point. But guess what, they are nothing to do with Christmas dinner or food. Do you know what they are? Have you asked yourself the three big three questions yet? Well here they are…..

3 big questions for you?

Q1 – What are you going to wear on Christmas day?

Q2 – Where are you going to find time to buy something?

Q3 – When are you going to find the time to get ready?

Finding enough time for you on Christmas day.

Time is never on your side when you are hosting Christmas day, so having enough time to go shopping for yourself is one of the last remaining challenges on most lists, but we can often never get around to it, until its too late. So, why is that? Why do we leave it until the last minute and then panic buy something we are not really sure about? But, did you know there is a better way?

How to look fabulous and keep your cool on Christmas day

You and your fabulous outfit are one of the most important things to think about when hosting Christmas day. So make sure you give it enough of your attention at the right time. If you feel good on the day then everyone will feel good too. You are the host after all, so you will be leading the festive cheer.

Stylish lady opens her presents in front of a christmas tree
Image by lookstudio on Freepik

Tip no 1 – Think about yourself first

So, how do you start looking for that one amazing outfit in good time? And how do you manage that with everything else you have to do? You make it easier for yourself, that’s how. or even better, make it effortless.

Finding my Christmas day outfit is not the last thing on my Christmas to do list. It never is. It’s the first thing on my list. I start my Christmas list by buying myself something nice to wear for Christmas day. So, I feel good and I have something to look forward to at the end of all that hard work.

By making it the first thing on your Christmas to do list, it can take some of the pressure off. Knowing you already have your Christmas outfit all sorted will make the rest of the preparations a little easier. I try to find my perfect Christmas outfit well before all the other Christmas tasks start piling up. It is one less thing to worry about, which always feels better. Honestly, I always feel ready for the challenge of prepping for Christmas day, knowing that my outfit is ready and waiting for me, when I am done.

What should I wear for Christmas Day?

Looking for your Christmas day outfit early means you are giving yourself one important thing. Enough time to look. This is crucial to avoid either panic buying or buying an unsuitable outfit both for you and the day you have planned.

But, do you know what to look for? Have you even thought about it yet? What type of outfit do you want and how will you know it will look perfect on the day, with so little time in between everything else you have to do? Let’s make sure that on Christmas day you will be looking fabulous by the time the guests arrive and the food is on the table.

If you are wondering what should I wear for Christmas Day. It can dependent on your family traditions. Smart and comfy outfits are a good safe option. Festive dresses in red or green are the most traditional styles to wear. Even Black is a perfectly acceptable colour to wear now.

The perfect Christmas colour trends.

The main things to consider when you are looking for your perfect Christmas day outfit is how to make your life easier when getting ready on the day. One of the first questions to ask is what colour should I wear. The most traditional colours to wear on Christmas day are often a rich Christmas red or green. People also look to chic black, or sparkly gold or silver.

Remember as the host you may be a little on the busy side during early preparations, and again just before you all sit down to eat, but your guests will expect you to look the part in your stylish Christmas holiday outfit. Choosing the right Christmas outfit is going to help you a lot. So how do you do that exactly? So, how do you make sure you are Christmas fabulous when you are so busy? How do you get through the preparations without ruining your Christmas Day hosting attire?

6 Elegant and stylish looks you can put together on Christmas day, the easy way.

Christmas outfits follow a few key dress guides and the holiday fashions usually centre around some key colours, fabrics, and styles. Many people choose something simple and well fitted. It’s often a family occasion, so choose an outfit that is less revealing and more elegant in style.

What are the best colours to wear on Christmas Day?

Christmas red or green are the most traditional and festive trends for the season, but gold, silver, white, blue or black are also trending this year. So, lets start by looking at a classic Christmas red and how to wear it the easy way.

Classic Christmas Red

happy lady in red dress with wrapped Christmas gifts around her head .
Image by lookstudio on Freepik

How to co-ordinate

Style – Red is an absolute favourite at this time of year, but not everybody feels confident enough to wear it. Do you? Maybe not, but I am going to let you into a secret. Christmas red is just gorgeous. Do you know one of the best ways to pull it off? Just keep it simple. Highlight its elegance.

Fabric – aim for a comfortable fabric if you are going to be busy. Think stylish yet practical. Red is the perfect colour for that, but be prepared to stand out ladies. It’s no shrinking violet on the colour spectrum. Outfits in Christmas red are meant to stand out. Are you wondering if it’s a little on the bright side for you? Then tone it down by wearing a simple red top with a black skirt or comfy trousers instead. It’s a great split option. So, I say go for it.

Jewellery – there are two options on the jewellery side for your red Christmas dinner dress. 1 – Go for something delicate and simple, in gold if you want to tone it down. Or 2 – go for something a little on the big and bold side if you want to take it up a level. Either way, you will look amazing. Remember that red can need very little in the way of supporting jewellery. It is always the star of the show.

Shoes – shoes options for this style are open to personal preference. One thing I will say is this. Consider your comfort for the whole day. Don’t end up hobbling about by the end of the day. Your feet will not thank you for it. On the colour spectrum, gold, black or red are all safe options to look at. It’s a personal preference and you just need to go and try some on in a style you know you will like.

Effortless black

happy lady in black dress standing next to a Christmas tree, holding a wrapped Christmas gift
Image by prostooleh on Freepik

How to co-ordinate

The big question around black is always. Can you wear black on Christmas day. The answer is yes you can. Black is now considered a very acceptable colour to wear on Christmas day, as long as you make it look festive and Christmassy. Here is how.

Style – Black can be a very elegant and a highly sophisticated colour choice and also a very flattering style for Christmas dinner outfit. I have worn it often and with plenty of compliments too. So, I know that wearing black is not going to upset the festive mood.

Fabric – We all have a little black dress that never lets us down, so we know it works, right! And if you don’t have one then you should. My little black dress is made of a very forgiving stretchy material and has saved me from so many panic buys in the past, as well as too many deserts as well. This is why it always has pride of place in the reliable section of my wardrobe. So why not wear one?

Jewellery – again keep it simple on the jewellery side, if you want to tone it down or go bold if you want to take it up a level. Gold or silver will always look great when paired with a black dress. Remember, a little black dress does not need to show off. It’s understated, so it’s refined and simple in its elegance. which will help you if you are short of time. Why do more work than you need to or have time for? But do feel free to level up with big jewellery if you want to shine that little bit extra.

Shoes – shoes options for this colour are great. You have so many options and its just down to personal taste. Continue to consider your comfort for the whole day. On the colour spectrum, gold, silver or black are safe options to look at. It’s a personal preference. Red is a little daring, so try some on in a style you know you will like and see how it feels.

The sparkle of metallic

happy lady in matching pink metallic top and skirt, holding a glass of wine Christmas gift
Image by ansiia on Freepik

How to co-ordinate

Style – If you want something a little different then how about something in metallic? It might be just what you are looking for, if you really want to shine. If you want something even more on the modern side of Christmas dinner outfit, then how about something in a soft pink? It is a daring shade to go for at Christmas time but you will be sure to stand out at dinner.

Fabric – Be warned metallics are not for the faint-hearted and comfort should still be a consideration. Some fabrics are not so roomy and might just test you on the day, but one thing I can be sure of is that you will shine, literally and most are very wipeable if you have a little accident during food preparations.

Jewellery – I say go bold or go back to the closet and pick something else. If you are going all out then go all out. So don’t hold back on the jewellery front either. I say, If you are going to shine, then shine. Metallics match with almost anything, so you can be as daring or as matching as you like. You can be as co-ordinated or contrasting as you prefer. One tip I will give is this. Contrasting is a good way to go with jewellery. Just don’t stand next to the Christmas tree, With this much sparkle going on, someone might just try to put a star on top of your head.

Shoes – shoes options for this colour are a little limited. I would think about a finding a matching shade or black before committing to buying something in this type of material. It’s a personal preference on taste and style. You know you will like. But play it safe and see what you can find to match first.

Emerald elegance

happy lady in emerald green party dress  and black heels
Image by user15285612 on Freepik

How to co-ordinate

Style – Emerald green is a whole lot of sass in one colour. I absolutely love it, especially at Christmas time. It’s so different from the classic Christmas colours, but it has this clever way of standing out, whilst still looking ever so refined. It is often considered to be that more refined flavour of individuality and expression of style.

Fabric – In the right material, this colour doesn’t really go out of style and you can wear it no matter what generation you identify with. With emerald green, everyone is welcome. Fabrics tend to lean towards long flowing satin or chiffon and can often be found in a mix of the two. If your not comfortable in sleeveless satin alone, then chiffon sleeves are the perfect accompaniment. Be sure to check the practicality of the fabric with the style of you day.

Jewellery – There is only one perfect looks that is worthy of being matched to emerald green and that is jewels. If you can’t afford the real ones, then go for the next best match. Glass stones will still look amazing.. Silver and emerald green jewellery is a perfect look and you can wear as little or as much as you like. It will still give you that lovely refined finish. If your outfit is not one complete colour then choose one compliment colour to matching to. My favourite is a complete matching set of earrings, a bracelet and a neckless all in one. Absolute perfection. But, if green is not for you then how about something equally elegant?

Shoes – shoes options for this colour are also a little limited. Again, I would think about finding something in a matching shade before committing to buying something to wear in this colour. Or pick the safer option of black. It’s your choice, you know what you will like. But play it safe and see what you can find to match first.

Gorgeous in gold

lady posing with long hair, black evening top and long gold skirt
Image by senivpetro on Freepik

How to co-ordinate

Style – Gold is nothing short of a bold move at Christmas. And why not? I dare you to wear it. It has just the right hint of luxury and style for any fabulous host at Christmas. And you deserve nothing less, as the host of your very own Christmas party. Gold dresses often come in fabulous figure hugging and unforgiving gold material, like gold silk or even satin, so make sure the fit and function works for you too. But, wearing a gold dress is sure to make you stand out all day long and need they often need very little in the way of extras.

Fabric – Much more practical styles can often have heavy embellishment too. So, this is always worth a consideration. But when done right you will defiantly be star quality on the day. If you are unsure about wearing a full gold dress then try separates instead. Confidence is important, so a silk or satin gold top with black bottoms is a much safer option, especially if it your first time in gold. This look can give you just the right amount of style and a more on the day, but in a more comfortable way.

Jewellery – You may want to try adding some contrasting jewellery, especially if you plan on wearing an outfit with a higher neckline. Gold jewellery sitting on gold fabric can be like camouflaging it. It can get a bit lost, so it’s not always worth the effort. Be sure to check in advance that your outfit neckline and your jewellery will sit well together. But if your outfit neckline is much lower and your accessories will be sat on your bare skin, then gold with gold can be a perfect match and a very easy chic look to pull off. Alternatively, try something in black or slate grey. Both these colours are contrasting enough in themselves to sit well against any gold fabric. Finally, if the neckline of your chosen outfit is worthy of standing out alone, then go for no jewellery around your neckline at all, try this for that extra elegant look.

Shoes – great shoes options for this colour are gold or black. Again, I would think about finding something matching before committing to buying something to wear in this colour, As shades can often vary. Choose from strappy heels to kitten heels, or open toe to sling backs. The options in gold at this time of year are many. So, have a god look about and try a few on. Maybe something special will catch your eye.

Shine in Silver

happy lady in black evening top and silver pleated long skirt
Image by ansiia on Freepik

How to co-ordinate

Style – Silver is another great colour to wear at Christmas time. It’s just as popular as gold, for a Christmas day outfit and with good reason too. A silver dress will shine all on its own, just like gold and needs little else to make it stand out. Manoeuvrability without the need for constant adjustment is always my key test for any silver fabric.

Fabric – again if you are not 100% sure about fabric then pair it down to a top with a black skirt or trousers. Comfort and confidence should be a primary consideration with silver, just as much as the look and style. Fabrics can be very varied, so try it on first and have a good feel and move around for a good fit.

Jewellery – if your jewellery is going to sit on or touch the fabric around your neckline, then choose a contrasting colour like black or any other contrasting colour that you like. If your accessories will not make contact with the fabric around your neckline, then you can make them match. This is one of the easiest ways to get a silver outfit with jewellery right and look amazing.

Shoes – good shoes options for this colour are silver or black. Again, I would think about finding something matching before committing to buying something in this colour. Choose from strappy heels to kitten heels, or open toe to sling backs. The options in silver are many at this time of year. So, try a few on and see what sparkles.

Now for something a little different!

Vintage style

happy lady posing in cream and black paisley dress evening dress holding a glass of wine

How to co-ordinate

If you are looking for something a little special in your dress for Christmas dinner, then how about a vintage dress? They are a great option to go with at Christmas. I love a good vintage outfit at this time of year and if you find a good one, then do not let it go.

Fabric – Don’t forget that Vintage fabrics can often be of great quality and made well. They have not lasted this long for no reason. Find the right dress and you can feel absolutely amazing all day long. I am sure there will be some welcome compliments and interest in your unique style on the day too. It all adds to the festive feel and traditional vibe of a great family Christmas.

Jewellery – This is a perfect opportunity to let your jewellery do some serious talking. Large bangles or an unusual decorative neckpiece will make the perfect statement. Full sets are even better. A vintage dress needs nothing less than the perfect vintage jewellery to compliment it. So, have some fun and who knows you might just find that perfect piece of vintage jewellery you never knew you wanted.

Shoes – a vintage dress requires nothing less than vintage shoes to match. If you struggle to find any, then vintage looking shoes are fortunately in great abundance. Good colour options to look at are gold or black. Again, I would think about finding the right matching shoes before committing to buying something vintage to wear in any colour. Choose from strappy heels, kitten heels, or open toe to sling backs. The options in gold at this time of year are thankfully many. So, go try a few on and see what catches your eye.

Most frequently asked questions;

How do I style a Christmas Day outfit for family photos?

It is best to coordinate colours with family members well in advance. Choose from festive plaid or tartan. Checking in advance will save being the odd one out.

What are the trending Christmas Day outfits for 2024?

Then Classic colours like red or green are also trending but also look to velvet or metallic dresses. Tartan patterns in loungewear are also popular this year. A good mix of traditional and modern vibes are good styles to look for.

What are good Christmas Day outfits for cold weather?

When the weather is harsh outside layer up with cosy warm knits or pair a dress with warm tights. Wear a stylish weather proof coat with good boots to keep warm.

Hair and nails

Whatever fabulous outfit you decide to wear, your hair, make-up and nails are a personal touch and everyone’s style is different. So, only you know what works for you. Wear your hair and make-up exactly how you like it. Wear your hair up or down, half tied or loose, but wear it exactly how you want to and what’s best for the whole day.

I hope your guest really appreciate all the efforts you go to in making sure everyone has a lovely Christmas day and I hope they all thank you for it generously.

But most of all I hope your Christmas day is amazing, you have a wonderful time and you and your outfit look absolutely perfect.

Merry Christmas ladies