Style Scenario: The Laid Back / Casual Holiday Party

What are you going to wear? Sometimes it’s good to look at a few suggestions then add your own tweaks and ideas. That’s what these are for. First we went dressed up. Then it was somewhere in between. Now it’s time for a dressed down, but still stylish look for those get-togethers that are more beer, cookies, & board-games, and less cocktails, appetizers, and schmoozing.

The Sweater: GAP Lambswool Speckled Sweater – $32.97 w/ GIVING ($54.95). A really nice quality wool blend that’s always on sale. Not as trim as a J. Crew Slim or UNIQLO sweater, but comfortable without being enormous. Has that donegal-like, speckled thing going for it.

The Shirt: UNIQLO Crew Neck Long Sleeve Tee – $14.90. Just going with a plain long sleeve tee here. It’ll provide another layer of warmth, and a barrier between your skin and the sweater if lambswool makes you itch. If this feels a little too casual, go with an OCBD under the sweater. If you think it’ll be too warm, go with a regular short-sleeved tee.

The Pants: Nordstrom Straight Leg Corduroy Pants – $46.56 ($69.50). Dark denim will also work just as well here. Since you’re in a casual setting, wear what’s most comfortable. Except pajama pants, unless that is specified in the invitation.

The Belt: Lands’ End Distressed Vintage Jean Belt – $23.40 w/ ORDERNOW & 7000 ($39). A wide belt, so definitely made to be worn with casual pants. The brass buckle and distressed leather also keep it from looking too dressy. Code & pin are good for 40% off, and expires today, 12/7.

The Scarf: J. Crew Factory Plaid Scarf $15.50. Something to keep your neck covered from the biting winds of winter. If you have a favorite warm plaid scarf, use it. This outfit is pretty neutral, so throwing in a little color with a scarf will work.

The Watch: form•function•form Timex Button-Stud Chronograph – $128. The watch itself might not be a heritage timepiece, but the strap sure is. 40mm, and you can choose from three different dial colors, and 10 different shades for the band.

The Boots: 1901 ‘Calgary’ Chukka Boot – $110. The rubber sole should provide decent traction, and reviews give these boots a good comfort rating, so if you travel by foot often these should treat you well. Inexpensive & casual enough that you won’t mind too much if they get some salt and slush on them.

The Socks: Kirkland Signature Merino Wool Trail Socks – $21.51 (2 pack). You never know when you’re going to end up in a “no shoes inside” situation. Warm, hole-free socks would be mighty welcome should it be requested you leave your boots by the door.

The Coat: Target Wool Blend Peacoat – $39.99 ($79.99). Affordable, warm, and not overly boxy. It’s a bit chopped, so know that if you’re looking for full back end coverage.

The Host/Hostess Gift: Barrel Aged Old Rasputin. There are a boatload of reserve aged beers on the market during the holidays, and this is one of the best. Old Rasputin is already an oddly clean drinking Imperial Stout for how much flavor it has, and the bourbon barrel aging ups that quotient. It’s a big beer at 12.1% ABV, but it’s not cloying or molasses like. A great gift for the beer drinking host who’s throwing something more casual for the holidays.