Your Guide to Festive Dressing: Luxe Layers and Statement Accessories

Festive style decoded

As we move closer towards the season of festive gatherings, the question is never what to wear but how to wear it. Think drapey capes that could double as your superhero cloak, layered silks, and just enough sparkle that is non-negotiable when it comes to festive dressing. Here’s a curated guide to pulling off the season’s most festive, modest looks—effortlessly.

Layers, Layers, Layers

The art of layering comes super handy when it comes to choosing your look for the festive season, whether it’s a halloween costume or Christmas Eve—an approach as important to modest dressing as pumpkin spice is to fall. Balance dramatic layers with luxe fabrics to bring out that holiday glam.

Massimo Dutti | 100% SILK SLIP MIDI DRESS – LIMITED EDITION | Dhs 1,249
Nocturne | Sheer Tulle Top | Dhs 255
Tulle Over Silks

A silk dress layered with a lightweight tulle skirt or top is always a winning combo. Add a velvet waistcoat on top, and you’re good to go, or slay! Pro tip: Stick to warm colours like burgundy or forest green for that luxe-but-I-barely-tried feel.

Capes Are Everything
PRADA |Printed Cape in Nylon | Dhs 3,450

Capes never get the backseat when it comes to dressing up for festivities; go for rich tones and fabrics like deep emerald velvet or burgundy brocade. For a bit more sass, opt for a satin-lined cape in midnight blue or even one with subtle gold embroidery.

Jewel Tones

The holidays are all about dialing up a little luxe, and nothing does it better than jewel tones—rich, bold, and easy to pull off without feeling overdone.

Ted Baker | Rimini Draped Neck Detail Midi Dress | Dhs 1,139
Emerald and Sapphaire

An emerald green maxi dress, cinched with a gold belt, makes a refined statement. Add a matching velvet blazer to heighten the effect.

Crimson and Gold Accents

For a quieter approach, incorporate rich colours like crimson and gold in small doses. A crimson scarf or some gold jewelry can elevate an outfit from simple to holiday-ready without too much fuss.

Print Play and Embellishments

All Saints | JESSICA FLORAL PRINT RUFFLE MAXI DRESS | Dhs 1,025

Let’s be real—florals and sequins are basically festive dressing royalty. When you’re done playing it safe, prints and embellishments can turn up the volume on any look.

Dark Florals

Take a trip back to the heart of a Bridgerton ballroom or the Masquerade Ball in Emily in Paris Season 4, where romance was written in every stitch. We’re talking dark floral dresses—delicate blooms scattered over rich, moody fabric that echoes Victorian elegance without the excess. Finish it off with a black satin bow at the base of a low ponytail. Festive season is a great excuse to bring those iconic looks out of your Pinterest mood board.

Sequins Done Right

For those craving sparkle but without going all out, try sequins in unexpected details—a delicate beaded sleeve, a hint of sequinned hem…

Accessorise With Intention

Rabanne | Pixel Crystal Detail Scarf | Dhs 1,220

You can always depend on accessories to complete your look! Opt for structured leather belts that cinch and sculpt, consider bold earrings—whether classic hoops or artfully crafted drops—that draw the eye without overpowering. 

Faux Fur Coats

STINE GOYA | Paulos iridescent sequined tulle trench coat | Dhs  1,776

Outerwear should bring as much personality as the look beneath it, especially on those festive, chilly nights.

Velvet Duster Coats

A velvet duster with subtle hints of embroidery is the statement piece you didn’t know you needed. Throw it over a sleek dress, add pointed ankle boots, and you’ve got a look that’s cosy but undeniably chic.

Faux Fur Collars

 Not ready for a full fur moment? A faux fur collar is the answer. Layer it over a classic trench or sharp blazer for a put together look.

Yes, Shoes Matter

Festive Dressing
Dune London | SENSATIONAL Sequins Knee High Boots | Dhs 699

Skip the basics this season—festive footwear is all about making a subtle statement.

Metallic Flats

Flats don’t need to be an afterthought. Metallic brogues or gold loafers can pair well with any look and are comfortable for long events.

Heeled Boots

Ankle boots in deep tones like burgundy or a soft metallic bronze bring could bring warmth and style. Look for ones with interesting details—a little buckle here, a stud there—for a bit of edge that keeps the look polished and festive.

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