The House Party Invite

What to wear for those more casual dressy house hangs

The house party invite is one of those that can go many ways… and usually lends me to texting my girlfriends to see how dressy they’re going. Because the California denim loving girl in me can lean very casual and I’m always bummed when I’m in jeans and a sweater… and everyone else is in a dress!!

I also typically have so much going on with my kids during the day that I’m rushing to get ready in the evenings… just pulling for what is within reach before running out the door. Which really makes me appreciate those closet heroes this time of year! Those trusty silk and black pants, festive feeling tops that feel a bit more special even just with jeans. Sleek bodysuits and turtlenecks for layering under blazers. And a sock bootie or party pump to wear with all of the dresses.

Here are a few festive staples I rely on…

The Silky Pant.

I always dress for comfort and warmth so when it comes to festive house hangs I typically lean comfy… silky pants that feel like you’re in your pajamas with a pretty top or cozy sweater. This is my go-to silky pant. You feel like you’re in pjs they’re that comfy. (All colors 25% on Vince’s site right now with code: HOTELVINCE).

The silky pant (or *enter* your trusty black pant ~ this classic pant is very High Sport / The Row for less)… can be jazzed up with heels, jewelry, your bag… giving that dose of festive while keeping the comfort.

Images via | Dress. Pumps. Adina Ryder Necklace (20% Off w code: MERRY2024). Top. Sheer Tights. Bodysuit.

The Bodysuit.

Denim and a dressier top or bodysuit is also always a go-to combination for me. If you’re feeling something a little sexier… this bodysuit with a jacket or chic blazer on top is a perfect date night / girl’s house hang look.

Sheer tights.

I am really feeling a mini skirt at some point this holiday season. I just scooped up a fresh pair of sheer tights (*code: HOLIDAY for 25% Off) to wear with my skirts and dresses. I love this look from Khaite below that can be easily recreated with pieces from your closet.

If you’re craving socks and loafers this season… I also just scooped up these. They feel a little dressier when your socks are peeking out from under your pants.

Image via | Rhinestone Heel. Skirt. Jacket.

Dress. Rhinestone Bag. Turtleneck.

The Turtleneck.

If a bodysuit isn’t your thing… and you’re looking for more modesty, the thin turtleneck *(25% Off) is perfect for layering and always looks holiday chic (another good option and this black one tucks in nicely to pants and skirts ~ I sized up one as it’s a snug fit).

The cozy turtleneck sweater (another sale classic) worn over a dress / skirt is also always a combo I lean towards when craving comfort.

Image via Tappan | Strapless Top. Boots. Black Top.

Sock Bootie.

When thinking about some go-to party dressing staples of mine ~ I’m more of a boot person over heels and the sock bootie is one of my mainstays. I have an older boot I grab for the most from The Row which is similar to this chic style. It always looks great under jeans and with tights and longer dresses or skirts. And I can stand for long periods of time and walk for miles in them. The pointed toe is key for me and really elongates the leg. (More sizes here and here).

Silky and Leather Skirts.

Classic slip skirts are also such a staple for me. I love this pretty silky skirt and more unexpected color combination in the sea of blacks ~ chocolate brown and pink.

I own this pretty metallic skirt that’s perfect for the holidays (more sizes here). Another classic satin wrap skirt option. If you’re feeling animal prints this season.

Leather skirts (another sale find) are also a staple this time of year. They feel dressier and are an easy way to jazz up your cozy sweaters on top. Ok… and I’m still thinking about this one (which you could recreate the look for less)!