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As someone who spends hours each week maintaining this little fashion blog, it’s no surprise I absolutely love dressing up—and I know I’m not the only one. Especially this time of year, when tons of bloggers and stores are sharing holiday dresses, it’s hard not to get an itch to put on alllll the sparkles and glam. Unfortunately, some of us don’t have extravagant work or holiday parties to attend… (I mean, do they even really exist?! I keep waiting to get invited to one but it still hasn’t happened yet…) But who needs posh parties, am I right? Today’s blog post is all about 6 excuses to dress up this holiday season—that don’t require an exclusive invite.
Eat out at a fancy restaurant. Gather up your family or friends and go out to dinner one night, after putting on your favorite sparkly accessories, of course. The restaurant doesn’t even have to be that fancy—think of it like homecoming or prom. When I went to high school dances, my friends and I always picked a sit-down restaurant downtown. It doesn’t have to be the most elegant or expensive dining option (just as long as it has real waiters) and the downtown “city life” atmosphere always adds a more glamorous element. Don’t forget to do a photoshoot beforehand with all the festive decorations! Basically, it’s homecoming just without the dance.
Invite yourself to a school event. When I was little, I always looked forward to our winter concert because it meant wearing a red velvet dress with white fluffy trim. Sure, you’re probably not required to sing carols for your parents anymore…but that doesn’t mean you don’t have cute younger siblings, cousins, or neighbors that do have a special performance. Ask if you can go—not only will you get to dress up fancy, but you’ll also get to support a little person in your life, who would probably love your presence. It’s a win-win!
Attend high tea. Double down with a fancy occasion AND a Christmas present to a special lady in your life: take her out for tea! I talked all about my high tea experience in this blog post, and it would be even more sparkly and luxurious during the holiday season. This would make a super cute gift for a mom, aunt, or best friend—I absolutely love giving people experiences, and it’s just a bonus that you’d be able to benefit from the fancy attire.
See “The Nutcracker” or another show. I’ve seen “The Nutcracker” at a local performing arts center a few times (I was even in it once!), and it’s always a great reason to put on your favorite holiday dress. If ballet isn’t your jam, you could always see another Christmas themed show or play. Last year, for example, my parents went to a free performance in the Capitol building called Tuba Christmas, which is exactly what it sounds like—a bunch of tuba players playing Christmas songs! You never know what kind of festive events you can find around town, so do your research and then make a pitstop in your closet before hitting up the city.
Go to Christmas Eve mass. I am religious, but I admit I’m not very good about going to church… Regardless, Christmas Eve mass is a great reason to dress in your finest (and check out everyone else’s pretty outfits!). If I’m being honest, I usually just get distracted by all the sparkly dresses and pay more attention to that… Whoops!
Indulge in brunch. Last but not least, treat yourself and your girlfriends to a brunch buffet. Lots of restaurants (and even nice hotels) offer holiday brunch specials, so why not take advantage of this fun time of year? Throw on a pretty dress and eat to your heart’s desire. Again, consider this homecoming, but without the dance and in the morning instead. Basically the same thing (wink wink)!
I hope you found at least one excuse in this post to dress up this holiday season. Now the question is, what will you wear?! Here are a few posts to help you out, in addition to today’s outfit:
Hey Classy Lady: An Audrey Hepburn Halloween Costume
Have a very festive and very sparkly Monday!
Miles of smiles,
Grace
Red Sparkly Dress: JCPenney, $35 // Black Heels: DSW, $40 // Sparkly Bow Belt: Charming Charlie, $10 // Silver Clutch: DSW, $5 // Camel Coat: Macy’s, $240
There is nothing like getting dolled up. I am completely obsessed with your jacket. It is gorgeous!
Thanks so much Jubilee! The jacket was a Christmas gift last year–definitely one of my favorite gifts ever!