First, let me say this: I love Christmas. For me, one of the best parts about the holiday season is the build-up – the festive cheer, the clichés, inviting my friends over for mulled wine to watch the bad (great) movies, the events, markets and countless celebratory dinners.
However, this year, things are looking a little different. While there won’t be any big parties or trying to squeeze as many friends as possible into my living room, I don’t intend on letting that stop me from getting into the festive spirit.
I’m all about getting creative this month, taking celebrations virtual and making the most of festive occasions spent with my household – which means that, while my calendar is looking a little bare, I’ve still got occasions to look forward to. And, importantly, dates in my diary to dress up for.
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I don’t know about you, but I haven’t gotten dressed up in a long time. I’ve been accustomed to a new, slower pace of life, working from home in loungewear, activewear and basically anything stretchy. But the arrival of December has been the excuse I’ve needed to put down the gym leggings and rediscover the joy of dressing up. Here are three events I’m looking forward to most, and the looks I’m planning to wear for each of them.
Virtual ELLE Christmas Party
Usually, our festive staff gathering involves drinks, dinner and a lot of dancing. While we’re all gutted we won’t be able to come together for a party, we’re going to make the most of our situation, with a big virtual catch-up. Lockdown has taught me a new way of dressing for Zoom: stylish on top, while anything goes on the bottom.
I’ve kept this in mind when planning my outfit for the party, with a bright teal silk shirt to stand out on camera, paired with some leather-look leggings on the bottom (still stretchy, but far more refined than my usual gym ensemble). Online gatherings are also a great excuse to play with make-up, too, so I’m opting for a bold flick of eyeliner and a vibrant pink lip, to tie the look together.
The Big Day
After a morning of breakfast and present-opening in our pyjamas, my family likes to go all-out for the Big Day – and this year will be no exception. I usually opt for something unfussy yet elegant, like a dress or a jumpsuit, and this year I’m going for a versatile black slip dress. Party knitwear is also huge this year (no doubt due to all this time we’re spending cosying up at home), so I’ll layer over a chunky, embellished jumper for added comfort. And, considering I won’t be walking further than my living room, it’s a great excuse to wear my tallest strappy sandals. Any excuse to put on a pair of heels again!
Boxing Day Beach Walk
My family live right by the beach, so Boxing Day usually involves a seaside stroll to wake us back up after a day of indulging. How long it is tends to depend on how cold it is (usually very, thanks to that sea air), so it’s a great excuse to wrap up in an oversized teddy coat and co-ordinated knitwear.
After all the glitz of festive celebrations, I love the idea of going for a more refined, tonal palette – it’s much more like my usual everyday look – finished off with a pair of trainers in a similar hue. Opting for a chunky dad style is a great way to easily incorporate a trend into my look, and they’re just right for a walk along the sand; the perfect mix of comfort and style.
Shop the looks below.
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