Looking for modest holiday dresses ? These are some great options for this holiday season from holiday teas to new year’s eve parties !
The holiday season is a time for celebration, togetherness, and making cherished memories. Whether you’re attending a festive dinner, a winter wedding, or a holiday party, choosing the right outfit fir a special event is one of my favorite ways to get into the spirit of the season.
Now, I love a great bodycon dress. But there have been plenty of holiday events where it felt like the perfect dress was something a bit more covered. I thought it would be fun to share some of my favorite modest holiday outfits that are cute, fun and stylish. These are the type of dresses I wore for work holiday events as a teacher or when I was doing a family event or holiday parties with Lydia.
I think that these modest holiday dresses offer a perfect balance of elegance, style, and fun allowing you to feel comfortable and confident while celebrating.
Why Modest Holiday Dresses?
Elegance and Grace
Modest dresses are synonymous with sophistication and grace. They embrace a classic style that transcends trends, making them suitable for a wide range of holiday occasions. Their timeless appeal ensures you’ll have a classic piece that you can wear to christmas parties or events for years to come. Plus, vintage style dresses are ALL THE RAGE right now.
The concept of modesty in fashion is grounded in a sense of timelessness and grace. Modest dresses are characterized by features such as higher necklines or longer hemlines (I think it’s important to note that this includes both a midi dress and a maxi dress length). These design elements harken back to an era when elegance and style went hand in hand and have a fun vintage feel.
Modest holiday dresses, therefore, reflect a classic aesthetic and one that will probably never go out of style.
Comfort and Confidence
One of the most significant advantages of modest holiday dresses is the level of comfort they offer. This comfort is essential during the holidays, where you might find yourself bustling from one event to another, or dancing the night away at a lively gathering. Modest dresses prioritize comfort, allowing you to enjoy the festivities without constantly adjusting your outfit ( I have to say, I wore a short wrap dress to an event recently and felt like I was constantly adjusting it……it wasn’t very fun)!
Versatility
The versatility of modest holiday dresses is another key factor to consider. These dresses are like blank canvases that you can paint with your unique style and flair. They can be dressed up or down with accessories, making them suitable for various events, from office parties to formal family gatherings.
With the right dress, you can seamlessly transition from one occasion to the next. All it takes is a change of jewelry or shoes to adapt your look. This adaptability really helps in saving you from the stress of finding different outfits for every event.
Choosing the Perfect Modest Holiday Dress
Here are some things to consider when searching for your ideal holiday dress:
Consider the Dress Length
When selecting a modest holiday dress, one of the things to think about is the dress length. Different occasions call for varying degrees of formality, and the length of your dress plays a crucial role in this. Longer hemlines, such as midi or maxi dresses , are excellent for formal gatherings, while knee-length dresses are more versatile and can be worn to both casual and semi-formal events. I think it’s great to have one high quality option of each length!
- Midi Dresses: Midi dresses typically fall between the knee and ankle. These are a great option for a semi-formal holiday dinner or a festive office party. They provide a balanced look that’s both elegant and contemporary…..a ton of my personal favorite dresses are midi length!
- Maxi Dresses: Maxi dresses are floor-length and exude a sense of grandeur. They are perfect for formal holiday events, such as winter weddings or upscale galas. Maxi dresses offer the chance to make a statement and have a great dramatic flair.
- Knee-Length Dresses: Knee-length dresses strike a balance between casual and formal. They are versatile and can be dressed up with the right accessories. Knee-length dresses are ideal for gatherings with family and friends, where you want to look polished without being overly formal. Plus they look great with any heel height!
Pay Attention to Necklines
Necklines are a key element of modest dresses, and they can significantly influence the overall look of your outfit. The right neckline not only adds to the aesthetics but also ensures that you’re comfortable and confident. High necklines, such as crew necks, boat necks, and mock necks, exude a timeless elegance. For a more modern twist, you can do a simple V-neck or square neckline that provides coverage while adding a more modern look.
- Crew Neck: The crew neckline is a classic choice that sits high on the neck. It offers a simple and elegant look, making it suitable for various occasions. Pair a crew-neck dress with statement earrings to draw attention to your face.
- Boat Neck: A boat neck, also known as a bateau neckline, has a wider, horizontal shape that accentuates the shoulders and collarbone. This neckline adds a touch of sophistication and is perfect for showcasing delicate jewelry.
- Mock Neck: A mock neck resembles a turtleneck but is shorter in height. It provides a chic and modest look that works well for both casual and formal events. A mock neck dress pairs beautifully with long statement necklaces.
- V-Neck: A modest V-neck creates an elongating effect, drawing the eye downward and adding a touch of femininity to your look. It’s a versatile choice that complements a range of body shapes.
- Square Neck: The square neckline is a stylish and slightly unconventional choice. It offers a unique and flattering frame for your face and works particularly well with statement sleeves or long sleeve tops .
- Peter Pan Collar: If you are looking for a fun neckline that looks great with short sleeves or flutter sleeves…..a Peter Pan collar is SUPER on trend right now (some people even add these collars to shirts or dresses).
Choose the Right Fabrics
The choice of fabric can significantly impact the comfort and style of your dress. Different fabrics provide varying degrees of breathability, stretch, and durability. It’s crucial to choose a fabric that suits both the season and the formality of the event. Here are some popular fabric options for modest holiday dresses:
- Chiffon: Chiffon is a lightweight, sheer fabric that’s often used for formal and semi-formal dresses. It drapes beautifully and offers a touch of elegance, making it a great choice for a romantic holiday evening.
- Lace: Lace dresses are timeless and exquisite. They add a delicate, feminine touch to your look. Lace is often used for special occasions and can be paired with a variety of accessories.
- Satin: Satin is a luxurious fabric known for its smooth, glossy finish. It’s perfect for winter holiday events, providing a touch of opulence and warmth.
- Velvet: Velvet is a rich, textured fabric that offers a sense of luxury. It’s particularly suitable for colder winter holidays, providing warmth and a regal look and is one of my personal favorites.
- Wool: For exceptionally cold holiday gatherings, a wool dress can provide warmth and comfort without compromising style. Wool blends are versatile and can be tailored into various dress styles.
When picking a fabric for your dress, think about both the aesthetic appeal and the practical side of things. For instance, a chiffon dress might look stunning, but it may not be the best choice for a winter event. Try to balance your desire for style with the need for comfort and suitability.
Embrace Statement Sleeves
Statement sleeves are a popular trend in modest fashion, and they can add a touch of drama and elegance to your holiday dress. Instead of opting for simple, straight sleeves, I’d suggest looking at dresses with statement sleeves such as balloon sleeves, bishop sleeves, or even bell sleeves.
- Balloon Sleeves: Balloon sleeves are voluminous and gathered at the shoulder and cuff. They add a playful, whimsical element to your dress, creating a fashionable focal point.
- Bishop Sleeves: Bishop sleeves are slightly blouson and taper down to a fitted cuff. They have a graceful, vintage-inspired look that pairs well with modest necklines.
- Bell Sleeves: Bell sleeves flare out, creating a bell-like shape. They provide a touch of drama and movement to your outfit. Bell sleeves can be especially striking on midi or maxi dresses.
Statement sleeves not only make a fashion statement but also create an illusion of balance and proportion. They’re a fantastic way to add personality and individuality to your modest holiday dress.
Accessorize
Accessories are the finishing touches that complete your look and can elevate your modest holiday dress. When accessorizing, aim for a balanced and harmonious style.
Here are some options for accessorizing your modest holiday dress :
- Statement Belt: Adding a belt to your dress can cinch the waist and create an lovely hourglass silhouette. A statement belt in a contrasting color or with bold detailing can create a fun look.
- Elegant Jewelry: Choose jewelry that complements the neckline of your dress. For high necklines, opt for statement earrings or a delicate necklace. If you have a modest V-neck or square neckline, try a statement necklace.
- Stylish Clutch: A cute clutch or evening bag can add a touch of glamour to your outfit. It’s a practical accessory that can hold your essentials while enhancing your look.
- Footwear: Select shoes that are in line with the formality of the event and the style of your dress. Modest heels (espcially block heels) or elegant flats are excellent choices. Neutral or metallic-colored shoes can match a variety of dress colors.
- Headwear: Depending on the event, you can consider adding a headpiece, such as a fascinator or headband, to complete your look. This is particularly popular for holiday weddings and formal gatherings.
Remember, the goal of accessories is to enhance your outfit, not overwhelm it. Choose accessories that highlight your personal style and add to the overall cohesiveness of your holiday look.
Examples of Modest Holiday Dresses
Now let’s dive into some styles:
The Classic Black Dress
A little black dress (LBD) is a timeless choice for any holiday event. I love how versatile they can be! When selecting a modest black dress, I look for features such as long sleeves, knee-length or midi hemlines, and a great neckline.
Here’s are a few ways to style one for different occasions:
- Office Party: For a casual office party, pair your black dress with a statement belt, patterned tights, and ankle boots. Add a pop of color with a vibrant clutch.
- Family Gathering: Keep it simple with classic jewelry, such as pearl or diamond studs. Layer with a coordinating cardigan for a cozy, family-friendly look.
- Formal Event: Elevate your LBD with a dramatic statement necklace and sleek pumps or block heels. Add a clutch with metallic accents for a touch of glamour.
Velvet Elegance
Velvet is a luxurious fabric that just glows with warmth and opulence, making it perfect for winter holiday events. Whether you choose a jewel-toned velvet dress or a more subtle shade, the rich texture of velvet adds a touch of festive joy to your holiday attire.
Here are some ways to style a modest velvet dress:
- Winter Wedding: For a winter wedding, opt for a floor-length velvet dress in deep burgundy or forest green or even black. Pair it with sparkling jewelry and a wrap for added warmth.
- Holiday Gala: Choose a sleeveless velvet dress with a midi hemline for a formal holiday gala. Accessorize with elegant drop earrings and satin heels.
- Cocktail Party: For a more relaxed cocktail party, go for a knee-length velvet dress with a modest V-neck. Add a statement belt and ankle boots for a chic, modern look.
Lace Allure
Lace is a fabric that embodies delicacy and romance, making it a wonderful choice for modest holiday dresses. Its intricate patterns and sheer quality add a touch of femininity and elegance to your outfit.
Here are a few ways to style a lace dress:
- Romantic Dinner: Choose a lace dress with a high neckline and three-quarter sleeves for a romantic dinner. Pair it with pearl accessories and strappy heels.
- Holiday Soiree: Opt for a lace dress in a deep navy or wine color with a knee-length hem. Add a statement necklace and block heeled pumps for a sophisticated look.
- New Year’s Eve: Embrace the glamour of New Year’s Eve with a lace dress featuring sequin detailing. Pair it with bold chandelier earrings and stilettos for a fun look.
Plaid Dresses: A Timeless Choice for Festive Gatherings
In the world of modest holiday dresses, plaid dresses hold a special place. Their classic and festive patterns bring a touch of tradition and warmth to holiday gatherings. Plaid dresses often feature pretty necklines, midlength hemlines, and fun sleeves, aligning perfectly with more modest fashion choices. Whether it’s a rich red and green plaid for a cozy Christmas party or a sophisticated black and white plaid for a New Year’s Eve celebration, these dresses effortlessly blend style with modesty.
Plaid dresses can be accessorized with statement belts and coordinating cardigans, making them a versatile choice for various events. Their charming and rustic appeal adds a layer of nostalgia to your holiday attire, creating a timeless and cozy look that’s perfect for family gatherings, outdoor festivities, and everything in between.
The Best Holiday Dress Options
Modest holiday dresses offer the perfect blend of timeless elegance, comfort, and versatility. With their higher necklines, longer hemlines, and carefully chosen fabrics, they provide a fashionable and appropriate choice for a wide range of holiday events. By thoughtfully considering factors such as dress length, necklines, fabrics, sleeves, and accessories, you can find the ideal modest holiday dress that suits your style and the occasion at hand.
As you embark on your search for the perfect holiday dress, remember to prioritize your own comfort and confidence. The holiday season is a time for joy, celebration, and creating wonderful memories, and your attire should enhance these experiences. Whether you opt for a classic black dress, a sumptuous velvet gown, or a delicate lace creation, you can embrace the beauty of the season.
