The countdown to Christmas is on, and our social calendars are filling up fast. With office parties, nights out with friends, family gatherings, and the big New Year’s Eve celebration all just around the corner, there’s a lot of pressure on us to look the part at this time of year. And, with so many back-to-back events to attend, it can be tricky to find the time to plan a fresh outfit for every occasion.

To help you celebrate in style with minimum hassle, we’ve put together this guide to dressing for the party season. We’ll show you how to put a killer outfit together for every event in your festive calendar, so you can focus on having fun with your nearest and dearest.

mens style guide for christmas

A fancy formal bash

If you work for a big company that holds a formal festive party each year, then chances are there’ll be a smart dress code. If the invitation specifies black-tie, only a tuxedo will do; pair yours with a formal dress shirt, cufflinks, and complete the look with your best watch. This is your time to shine, so you could even treat yourself to a new timepiece as an early Christmas gift. A Rolex is never out of place at a swanky do but, if a brand-new timepiece is out of your budget, take a look at this pre-owned range from Est.1897.

If the dress code is ‘black tie optional’ or just ‘party wear’, then swap the traditional tux for a velvet jacket, like this black one by Reiss. Pair it with a black roll-neck top or jumper, trousers, and loafers for a modern update on a classic look.   

mens formal style

A festive night on the town

It’s almost an obligatory festive ritual to hit the pubs with your mates for a bloke’s night out at some point in December. Depending on the tone of the evening, you probably don’t want to go overboard in a full suit, but it’s still nice to dress up a little bit for the occasion, especially if you’ll be dining out or sampling a few ales in some swanky bars or clubs.

To get the best mix of casual and smart, we recommend wearing your best jeans or chinos, a shirt in an eye-catching print, a fitted jacket, and our Ridlington belt. Not only is this style perfect for smart casual outfits, but it’s also reversible, so you can wear it again to other social events throughout the season, and no one will be any the wiser.

New Year's Eve

New Year's Eve sees the biggest parties of the whole year, so don’t be afraid to go all out. It’s likely that most men will be sporting full suits when the clock strikes midnight, so don’t just reach for a plain style this year. If you want to stand out in a sea of grey, black, and navy suits, go for a two-piece in an eye-catching check fabric — this wool jacket by Ted Baker should be just the thing. Wear it with either a white shirt or a dark roll-neck top, finish your look with our Egleton belt.

Egleton mens formal belt

Don’t forget to stay well groomed

Looking the part isn’t just about your clothing and accessories, you know: your skin, hair, and beard (if any) should also look the part. So, take the time to treat yourself to some TLC in between partying. Cold winter weather and central heating can be very drying, so get your skin party-ready with a moisturiser that’s rich in essential oils, like this energising facial cream from Scrubd. If your skin is ever in need of a quick boost after a late night and a bit too much champagne, pop your moisturiser in the fridge for twenty minutes before applying — this will really help you to look more awake.

When you’re invited to a Christmas party, it’s only polite to make an effort with your outfit. Take our tips on board, and you’ll be stepping out in style at every celebration you attend.

A man's style guide for the party season