(Fashion)
Holiday Party Style Staples To ‘Wow’ At Every Event On Your Cal
Senior Fashion News Editor Marina Liao steps out in three party-ready looks.
The holidays provide an excuse to indulge in the finer things in life: shimmering decorations, generous gift-giving (and receiving), and leaning into that overall sense of joy. Not to mention, anyone who’s obsessed with finding an excuse to dress up looks forward to the season for one reason: a jam-packed social calendar. And this year in particular, we’re making up for lost time with loads of parties, cocktail hours, and dinners on the horizon.
TZR Senior Fashion News Editor Marina Liao knows this level of busy-ness all too well. Her holiday season is typically filled with Friendsgivings and work events and everything in between. As someone whose job it is to be on the pulse of what’s new, she’s mastered the art of finding the right pieces for the right place and time. With a preference for neutrals with a pop of color via a cool clutch or bold pair of heels, Liao’s holiday party wardrobe is an elevated version of her everyday style. With Macy’s as her one-stop destination for all seasonal shopping needs, Liao shares the fun and festive essentials she’s relying on for all her holiday get-togethers. From a more casual night with her BFFs to a special evening out, these are the essentials that are taking her through to the New Year.
The Dinner Party Date
If there was ever an excuse to experiment with upscale looks, it’s now. Holiday style is synonymous with luxe textures, like velvet and tweed, along with plenty of shine. Embrace it like Liao by topping off a form-fitting velour midi dress with a faux-fur shawl (complete with an embellished clasp brooch) — or geometric-printed coat. Don’t forget those crystal drop earrings and a glittering clutch.
The Working Girl
Knowing and embracing your unique style formula is key to creating an outfit that makes you feel your best. For work cocktails, Liao sticks to the same foundation of a black dress (this time, a long-sleeve version with mesh cutouts) and colorful accessories. To keep things grounded, she adds a chunky gold chain necklace (easily styled later on with jeans and a sweater), and finishes the look with a plaid maxi coat. With a removable faux fur collar, it’s a show-stopper — and ideal for rooftop drinks.
The Social Butterfly
Arguably the best holiday events are the ones where you’re surrounded by your best friends — even if you’re just dressing up to gather at the closest apartment. They’re a fun excuse to wear something head-turning, embracing the excitement that comes with the season. For a get-together with her closest circle, Liao mixes a tie-waist crop top with a silk midi skirt. Here’s where she pairs classic pieces (like a black moto jacket) with some bolder accessories: shimmering statement rings, a high-shine clutch, and subtly bejeweled sandals. They’re all you need to take your look from ‘average Friday night’ to an evening you’ll remember.
Photography: Michelle Watt; Art Direction: Diana Weisman; Stylist: Ian Bradley; Set Design: Tim Ferro; Set Design Assistants: Laura Hughes and Reece Koetter; Senior Branded Fashion Editor: Elly Ayres; Branded Fashion Director: Jenna Wexler; Hair: Yoichi Tomizawa; Makeup: Tiffany Patton; Production: Danica Butkovich; Digital Tech: Curts D'Amour; Photo Assistant: Stephen Han
