It happens every year. You try and find the perfect outfit for your holiday card photo and you struggle to know what to wear. Should you wear red? Green? Red and green?!?! It can be such a challenge to know what to wear for your holiday card photo, however; the secret is that you just need to dress like yourself, not a Christmas tree.
As I talked about regarding event dressing, styling for an event is less about wearing a costume to match the occasion, and instead putting together an outfit that feels authentic to you, and maybe even something that you would wear elsewhere.
I spent so much of my teens and twenties thinking that I needed a special top or outfit for every occasion. I couldn’t wear the same outfit twice! Or if there was a particular event coming up I needed to go shopping for a dress or a thing that I’d only wear to that. It wasn’t just wasteful but also a bit silly because the outfit didn’t always align to who I was. I would stress thinking I’d need to wear a short dress when going out for a friend’s birthday party. Or for a company holiday party I’d get a pair of sparkly heels that I had no intention of wearing anywhere else (not to mention they were abhorrently uncomfortable).
It just is a waste of stress and effort that might not pay off or contribute to your closet, and instead end up in the bottom of a box in the back of your garage waiting for your husband to beg you to get rid of the things you don’t use. Sound familiar?
Breaking down what to wear
Coordinate Without Over-Matching
Matching outfits scream 1990s mall photo studio—let’s avoid that. Instead, think about coordinating colors, textures, or patterns that complement each other.
Pick a color palette with 2-3 tones (think rich emerald, soft cream, and a hint of gold) and let everyone put their spin on it. You could wear a flowy emerald dress, your partner in a neutral sweater and trousers, and the kids in outfits that pull those colors together subtly.
Dress for the Scene
Your outfit should match the vibe of your shoot. Think about where you’re taking the photos and lean into that aesthetic.
If you’re shooting at home, keep it cozy and casual with chunky knits, soft joggers, or a chic oversized cardigan. For outdoor photos, embrace luxe layers like a tailored wool coat, stylish boots, and a scarf that adds a little drama (hello, wind shots!). If you’re in a studio, go all out with a velvet maxi dress, tailored suits, or even a sequined jumpsuit that fits a festive backdrop.
Don’t Forget the Small Details
Kids and pets are part of the family too. Their looks don’t need to be fussy but should feel cohesive. For kids, keep it comfy with soft knits, tights, or jeans with festive touches like a bow tie or a headband. For pets, a simple plaid bandana or velvet bow on the collar will do the trick. Bonus points if it matches your palette!
Embrace Layering (It’s Not Just Practical)
Layers add depth and dimension to photos, making your outfit feel more polished. A blazer over a silk blouse, a chic vest, or a textured scarf can elevate a simple look without over-complicating it.
Accessories = The Cherry on Top
Choose one or two accessories that enhance your look. Maybe it’s a sleek leather belt, dainty gold hoops, or a classic wristwatch. Just keep it simple—too much can distract from the overall vibe.
Keep It Timeless
Your holiday card is a memento. Steer away from trends that could date the photo. Instead, focus on pieces that feel classic but still true to your personal style.
Outfit Inspo for Every Style
Effortless elegance could mean a cashmere sweater, silk midi skirt, and ankle boots. Glam vibes call for a velvet maxi dress, heeled boots, and statement earrings. Playful and festive looks might include a bold plaid blazer over a cream turtleneck and slim-fit pants. And for a chic at-home vibe, think neutral knit joggers, a cropped sweater, and fuzzy slippers.
Take a Few Test Shots
The mirror lies sometimes. Snap some quick phone pics in your outfit to see how it translates on camera. Make sure the colors pop against your setting, and double-check that everything fits and flatters.
Your holiday card is more than a photo—it’s a little slice of your style to share with your people. So, get creative, have fun, and remember that the best accessory is your smile (cheesy, but true). Let’s make it one to remember! 🎄✨
Check out my Pinterest profile for more visual inspo!
