What To Wear To A Family Christmas When Youre 60
If you’re eager to join in festive celebrations, but unsure about what to wear at Christmas, I’ve got some style inspiration to share. Every family has its own unique holiday traditions, whether it’s a cozy winter wonderland or a glamorous soiree. Whatever your family’s style, you’ll want to feel confident and radiant, allowing you to fully enjoy the day with loved ones.
In this post, I’ll be sharing some style tips and suggestions for dresses that are perfect for the holiday season. In my next installment, I’ll cover sweaters and pants.
To help inspire your wardrobe choices, I’ve curated a selection of stylish options from various retailers. Simply hover over any image to view pricing information and click on it to explore further details on the retailer’s site. If you decide to make a purchase, I’ll earn a small commission at no additional cost to you – all thanks to your support.
Style confidence
When it comes to dressing for special occasions with loved ones, you want to exude confidence without worrying about your outfit the entire time. You crave a sense of effortless elegance that allows you to focus on the moments that matter most. The truth is, when you feel good in what you’re wearing, you’ll smile more, and those around you will likely respond with smiles too!
To achieve this, select an outfit that showcases your best features without requiring constant adjustments or second glances. If you’re like me, you may find yourself getting anxious about your appearance when spending time with someone special – it’s a common phenomenon!
One clever solution is to opt for a versatile piece that can be easily stowed away until needed, such as the asymmetrical cashmere poncho by Talbot. This stylish accessory can be rolled up and kept in your bag, ready to add a touch of sophistication to your look at a moment’s notice.
Show you regard this get-together as special
When it comes to dressing for the holidays, whether you’re observing a religious tradition, honoring a family custom, or simply enjoying quality time with loved ones, you’ll want to make a thoughtful impression. Instead of wearing your everyday attire, consider donning something that adds an extra touch of elegance and care. This might be a piece from your wardrobe that you don’t typically wear, or a new acquisition that you’ve been saving for special occasions. The key is to show that you’re making an effort, even if it’s just a subtle one. People may not comment on your outfit, but they’ll likely take notice of the extra attention you’ve given to your appearance. For those over sixty, this style can be particularly appealing, as it offers a fresh and festive alternative to everyday jeans and tops. A midi-length jersey dress from Talbot’s, paired with a statement necklace, is an excellent example of how to create a stylish and holiday-perfect look.
Modesty trumps glamour
When dressing for family gatherings at Christmas, it’s essential to strike the right balance between being stylish and tasteful. If your go-to party outfits tend to be revealing or figure-hugging, they may not be suitable for a more formal family celebration. Instead, opt for pieces that create a more modest silhouette. Look for V-necks that stop above the cleavage line, or consider dresses with higher necklines like crew or mock (funnel) necks. For added length and coverage, focus on over-the-knee midi dresses rather than anything too fitted around the back. A-line silhouettes are also a great option to avoid drawing attention to any specific areas of the body. Consider incorporating timeless pieces into your wardrobe, such as Talbot’s fur collared puffer jacket, which perfectly captures the festive spirit.
Dress for chilly drafts and stuffy central heating
As you transition from the warmth of your host’s sitting room to potentially chillier environments, such as a dining room or outdoor spaces, be prepared for temperature fluctuations. Whether you’re hosting or a guest, it’s essential to have adaptable outfit options. If you’re wearing a dress, consider pairing it with a sleeveless knit top to seamlessly adjust to cooler temperatures. For inspiration, refer to our post on sleeveless knits.Alternatively, a stylish poncho can be a great addition to your wardrobe, particularly one made from luxurious materials like cashmere. A fur-trimmed poncho adds an extra layer of sophistication and practicality. When venturing outside for photos or activities, a thoughtful top layer can make all the difference. This depends on your local climate, but a smart wool coat is always a stylish choice.In case of inclement weather, consider investing in a rain-proof padded coat with a fur-edged hood or collar. For a more feminine and floaty look, opt for a midi dress like Phase Eight’s Karleen Ditsy, crafted from comfortable jersey fabric.
Helping with the festivities and the kids
Whether you’re the host or a guest, being comfortable and practical is key when cooking for a crowd. For me, that means wearing an apron to protect my clothes from splatters and spills. I also bring along rubber gloves for cleaning up or handling large cookware that doesn’t fit in the dishwasher. If I’ve taken the time to manicure my nails, I want to make sure they stay looking their best.When it comes to fun with kids involved, I look for dresses made from jersey fabric. Not only is it comfortable and easy to move around in, but it also won’t ride up as you bend down to play or help out. A midi length dress adds an extra layer of practicality, giving me the freedom to move around without worrying about showing too much.
Wearing comfortable shoes
As we age, our preferences for footwear often shift. What was once a staple – high heels – may become less comfortable and practical by the time we reach our sixties. Even formal events no longer require them, and flats have become an acceptable alternative. I personally swear by my knitted flats, which are both stylish and comfortable, regardless of whether my feet expand in the warmth or after a meal. In fact, you can see me wearing a navy pair of these shoes in my previous Summer Wardrobe post.When it comes to indoor footwear, it’s essential to prioritize comfort and practicality over style. Gone are the days when only the Japanese would insist on removing outdoor shoes before entering a home; today, people from all walks of life appreciate this courtesy. So, instead of investing in show-stopping shoes that will gather dust, consider opting for washable, flexible, and super comfortable options like Tree Breezers by Allbirds.When you’re preparing to spend the day indoors, remember to leave your outdoor footwear at the door. This means bringing along some indoor-friendly flats or slippers, which are now widely available from various retailers. You can choose from jewelled slippers, sparkle-trimmed flats, or affordable tartan numbers – perfect for a special occasion like Christmas.Of course, you could opt to spend the day in socks or opaque tights, but this may not be the most flattering look for those of us who aren’t teenagers or twenty-somethings. If necessary, wear opaque tights in black or a deep color, and avoid knee-high socks at all costs. As for knee-high boots, while they may complement certain dresses, it’s best to leave them in the hallway when you arrive, as they can lead to overheating issues if worn all day.In terms of dresses, the Layla Jersey dress by Boden is a great choice, with options available in regular and long lengths. If you prefer your dress to fall below the knee, simply choose the ‘regular’ or ‘long’ length option instead.
The pre-lunch walk
When it comes to embracing outdoor activities on holidays, it’s a tradition that spans generations – or perhaps something your kids have introduced you to. Whatever the case may be, being prepared is key! A heads up with your hosts before the trip can go a long way in ensuring you’re ready for any terrain. Ask about footwear options – whether they recommend bringing boots for a muddy stroll or if they have some that fit your size you can borrow. By doing so, you’ll avoid worrying about getting your shoes dirty while chatting with friends and family along the walk. To add a stylish touch to your outdoor adventure, consider pairing a crew neck jersey dress from Boden in Black Abstract Garden with some fabulous earrings – perfect for making memories around the holiday season.
Be you, but the best you
When it comes to your appearance, subtle nuances can make a significant impact. Your makeup and attire should reflect your effortless elegance. To achieve a natural look that exudes confidence, start by embracing the ‘less is more’ philosophy with your cosmetics. As you age, it’s essential to strike a balance between enhancing your features without looking too done-up.Before the family gathering, take some time to practice your makeup routine. Opt for a natural, effortless look that showcases your best qualities. A tinted moisturizer is an excellent choice, as it provides sheer coverage without clogging pores or accentuating fine lines. Avoid heavy foundation and powder, which can settle into creases and laugh lines throughout the day.To add some extra dimension to your face, use a brush-on blusher to highlight areas that would naturally catch the sun – cheeks, cheekbones, and jawline. This will give you a radiant, sun-kissed glow without looking too artificial.Don’t forget about your eyebrows! Trim them yourself or visit a salon well in advance to allow any sensitivity to subside. Then, use a brow pencil to define your brows without looking too bold.When it comes to lipstick, choose a shade that complements your dress and personal style. A couple of shades deeper than your natural lip color is usually a safe bet, but don’t be afraid to experiment with brighter hues if you feel confident wearing them.Ultimately, remember that confidence is key. Wear what makes you feel good about yourself, and own it! The real you – at your best – is the most attractive quality of all.