Style Scenario: The Smart 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. This one is for the dressed down affairs that might be out, or, might be at someone’s house. These are the parties where most guys are in bulky uncomfortable sweaters. Jeans are acceptable, but dressing them up with a blazer will absolutely take the look to another level, while not getting snooty. 

The Sportcoat: Canvas by Lands’ End Italian Wool Textured Jacket w/ Bemberg Lining – $137.99 w/ GIFTS & 3875 ($329). And it could drop into the $115-$120 range if more generous codes come along. A little texture, Italian wool, a muted shade, and a more breathable than poly bemberg lining. Sounds like a perfect holiday house party sportcoat.

The Shirt: GAP True Wash Slim Fit Button Down – $29.70 w/ RIGHTNOW ($49.50). Clean and simple with a button down collar. Not as heavy as an oxford cloth shirt. And that’ll come in handy if the house or room your in gets stuffy.

The Sweater: UNIQLO Extra Fine Merino V – $39.90. If you run hot, skip this. But these things are all but paper thin. Still strong, but there’s not a lot of bulk there. Perfect for regulating temperature and layering.

The Coat: Target Merona Wool Blend Topcoat in Charcoal – $59.99 w/ COLD ($79.99). Shockingly decent for the price. And these things were just 30% off. So they will get cheaper. Best in show for the cheap coats for this year’s best outerwear round up.

The Watch: Jack Mason 42mm Aviation Inspired Watch – $128.98 ($215). Casual, but not a G-shock.

The Scarf: GAP 50% Merino / 50% Nylon Cable Knit Scarf – $23.97 w/ RIGHTNOW ($49.95). Nice and soft blend. And the mix of bold rugby stripes with that chunkier cable knit is all kinds of right.

The Belt: GAP Basic Leather Belt – $39.95. The perfect belt for this kind of outfit, and has been, for at least ten years.

The Gloves: Nordstrom Leather Driving Gloves – $69.50. Perfectly executed for a fair price. Ships and returns for free too, just in case you screw up your sizing the first time around.

The Boots: Banana Republic Louis Chelsea – $178. Often on sale. Sleek, but not as dressed up as a pair of dress shoes. Offers more coverage and warmth than a loafer.

The Jeans: Banana Republic Traveler Jeans – $118. Supremely comfortable. If you didn’t pick a pair up for 40% – 50% off during the big holiday rush, you might have to hang out for another sale. But man. They’re worth it.

The Host/Hostess Gift: Jansz Premium Cuvee Sparkling Wine – $23.99. Anyone who throws a party expecting their guests to bring host/hostess gifts is, questionable. But y’know what resonates with a host/hostess who’s busted their butt to get the shindig ready? A small bit of appreciation for them inviting you over to eat their food and drink their booze. Wine is great. So is Whiskey. But bubbly is a real crowd pleaser. Also consider bringing a box of sugar cubes and some bitters. Channel your inner Rick from Casablanca and start offering up Champagne Cocktails to guests. Just make sure you get a dry-ish bottle and not something overly sweet. If it’s leaning sweet, add only a bit of the cube.