The Broke Girl’s Guide to Holiday Party Looks

Despite all the lights, gifts, and sugar plum fairies, the holiday season can be extremely stressful. It’s difficult enough to stay organized and on top of my budget, all while looking fabulous. To avoid a “panic what-to-wear, must spend everything” situation, I put together a few easy and affordable looks perfect for whatever party I’m attending this year.

Now I’m never stuck in a last-minute pinch, and my inbox of Mint.com alerts keeps to a minimum. Play around with these looks and have fun — just no ugly sweaters, please.

Trendy Holiday Party

When I’m grabbing drinks with friends or attending a bar’s swanky Christmas party, I go for what’s trending. Right now I’m living in my jewel-collared button-down and black slim pants. The best colors for this look are whites or wintry pastels. To finish the look, I add classic gray oxfords and stud earrings. For an inexpensive and trendy fix, shop for button-downs and other of-the-moment items at stores like Forever 21, Top Shop, and H&M.;

Classic Holiday Party

What better holiday go-to than a little black dress. The right accessories are what make this look a success. I add opaque black tights and black heels if I’m staying classic. If I’m feeling daring, I’ll add knockout gold heels and a gold cuff. For a classic LBD, set your sights on shops like Nordstrom, LOFT, and Target.

Office Party

Starting with the basics, I choose a simple top and pants or shift dress and then swap my blazer for an edgy jacket, add a bright lip, and I’m all set to party. Find office attire and funky jackets to boot at stores like Gap, J.Crew Factory, and ASOS.

Va Va Voom Holiday Party

When I’m feeling festive, I step into a gold sequined mini dress like this. The key to this look is keeping accessories to a minimum; the dress should be the focal point. I balance the sparkle with a classic tuxedo blazer and black booties.These stores always have the best non-pricey party dresses: Urban Outfitters, Express, and Chloe loves Charlie.

Vintage Holiday Party

Think cocktails by the fire and jazz records spinning for your vintage holiday party. I look for vintage dresses with high necklines and full skirts in pretty jewel tones. Classic pumps, cherry red lips, plus an elegant cat eye completes my vintage look. The best stores to scope for affordable vintage wear: ModCloth, LuLu’s, Shabby Apple.