December is the busiest month on my calendar. Office parties, friend dinners, rooftop drinks, a cozy Christmas Eve and of course New Year’s Eve. I like to plan my holiday party outfits early so I’m not panicking in front of my closet at 7 PM. These are the looks I’m wearing this season. — Cami Del Toro

1. The velvet midi dress

Velvet is the most holiday fabric there is. A deep green, burgundy or black velvet midi with long sleeves looks rich and feels cozy. I wear mine with sheer black tights, pointed pumps and small diamond studs. It works for an office party and a nice dinner, which makes it the best value piece in my closet this month.

2. Sequin skirt + cashmere sweater

My favorite high-low combo. A sequin midi skirt in silver or champagne with a soft cream or black sweater on top. The sweater keeps it from feeling too much, and the skirt keeps it from feeling too casual. Ankle boots for a house party, heels for a bar.

3. The little black dress, updated

Every year I try a new way to wear my LBD. This year it’s a one-shoulder black dress with a big gold cuff, a slicked-back bun and a red lip. Simple, classic and it photographs perfectly against holiday lights.

4. Satin slip dress + faux fur coat

For a night out in West Hollywood, a champagne or silver satin slip dress with a cropped faux fur jacket and strappy heels. It’s glamorous without trying too hard. LA nights in December get chilly, so the coat isn’t just for show.

5. Tailored suit, holiday edition

A black or deep red tailored suit with a lace camisole or sparkly top underneath. It’s chic, warm and comfortable enough to dance in. I love this one for office parties because it feels confident and polished.

6. Christmas Eve at home

Cozy but cute: a red knit set, gold hoops, hair down in soft waves and fuzzy slippers once the photos are done. For the full night-in vibe, I pair it with a candle and a holiday playlist (more on that in my playlist).

7. New Year’s Eve: all the sparkle

This is the one night I go all out. A sequin mini or a metallic dress, sheer tights if it’s cold, statement earrings and a little clutch with lipstick, a phone charger and blotting papers. My tip: choose shoes you can stand in for six hours. Midnight hits different when your feet don’t hurt.

Holiday makeup I keep coming back to

A glowing base, soft brown liner smudged into the lashes, a touch of shimmer on the inner corners and a red or berry lip. With dark hair and blue eyes, a classic red lip is my holiday signature. I start with a hydrating base because December parties and dry air are a lot, and my prep steps are in my skincare routine. The full step-by-step is in my holiday makeup look.

Hair ideas for party season

How I stay energized for party season

I keep my workouts going all month, even if they’re shorter. A 30-minute pilates class or a long walk makes such a difference to how I feel the next day. I shared my weekly split in my workout routine. Water before every party, one glass of water between drinks, and sleep in on Saturdays.

Building a holiday wardrobe without overspending

Pick one statement piece (sequins, velvet or metallic) and build three looks around it with basics you already own. A sequin skirt with a sweater, then with a bodysuit, then with a blazer. Three parties, one purchase. And if you’re looking for something softer for family dinners, check out my Thanksgiving outfit ideas, since most of those work for Christmas day too.

Looking for the full map of my fashion and beauty posts? Start with my style guide.

Every holiday post in one place lives in my holiday season hub.

For the hair side of my routine, read my winter hair care routine.

Building a smaller closet for the colder months? Here’s my winter capsule wardrobe: 15 pieces I wear on repeat.

Planning a night out? Here are my winter date night outfits, from first-date jeans to a dressy dinner.

FAQ

What does Cami Del Toro wear to holiday parties?

I love velvet, satin, sequins and a classic little black dress for holiday parties, usually with gold jewelry, heels and a red or berry lip.

What should I wear to a holiday office party?

Choose something festive but polished, like a velvet midi dress, a satin skirt with a fitted knit, or tailored trousers with a sparkly top.