Hostess with the Mostess – Practical Outfits That Look Amazing

In a year as we head back to “normal”, we give hugs and kudos to you. Taking on the role of host, whether your group is family, friends, or both, is a herculean affair…but we don’t have to tell you that.

You’ve done your preparation on the cleaning, the seating, the food and drinks…so why leave your outfit to something you throw on last minute? Do yourself this huge favor, and set aside some time to plan and lay out your meet-and-greet look. Even with everything set up, you’re still going to be doing a lot before, during and after the meal, so you’re going to need an outfit that can move as gracefully and looks as chic as you do!

Our editors are here to help with seven outfits that will help you check those boxes off your list. Things may still be a little different this year, but fashion never goes out of style…so let’s get going!

What’s the holidays without a little sparkle? We love how this outfit is perfectly put together to keep you moving between the kitchen and the table. With a wide waistband and easy wide-leg fit, these pants from Windsor are the perfect companion to this gorgeous Boston Proper velvet sweater with the most holiday-inspiring sleeves. Keep yourself in happy feet with Bruno Magli’s handmade Italian leather flats and remind everyone that you are the gold standard with Tous drop earrings in 18kt gold plate and tiny silver vermeil balls.

From Left to Right:

• Windsor, She Means Business Wide Leg Pant $42.90

• Boston Proper, Embroidered Paillette Sequin-Sleeve Velvet Knit Top $119.50

• TOUS, 18kt Gold and Silver Vermeil Spiral Earrings $259

• Bruno Magli, Mimi Signature Leather Ballet Flat in Cognac $350

The day may get crazy, but you’ll be going with the flow with this ensemble. Soft, flowy balloon sleeves up top and easy tiered skirt below in rich velvet. Say yes to some fun bling with a pearl and rhinestone buckled belt.  All that’s left is some perfect booties from Steve Madden and we’re ready to greet the guests!

From Left to Right:

• Boston Proper, All Over Pearl Buckle Belt $129.50

• Sugarlips, Sereia Floral Balloon Sleeve Satin Blouse $75

• Agnes Orinda, Plus Size Velvet Party Midi Skirt $39.99 (on Sale NOW from $53.39)

• STEVEN by Steve Madden, Nara Bootie $59.99 (on Sale NOW from $129)

Anticipating your time will be a little tight? This one-and-done wrap dress from Windsor will come to your rescue. Just slide into this cozy knit number, layer on some custom necklaces from Baublebar with some truly eye-catching tiger eye earrings from Anni Lu, and head feet first into some buttery soft suede boots from Cole Haan. You are all set to face the crowd in no time flat!

From Left to Right:

• Baublebar, Acrylic Custom Pendant $58 and Bennett Tennis Necklace $128

• Windsor, Cozy Cable Knit Tie-Front Mini Dress $48.90

• Cole Haan, Izzy Suede Boot $149.99 (on Sale NOW from $300)

• Anni Lu, Eye of the Tiger Hoop Earrings $60

Lux textures make for an outfit you’ll love to move in. Rich vegan leather leggings and a flowy print blouse are leveled up with a pair of chic croc booties that look so cool, you won’t believe how comfortable they are. And while no one’s going to get rid of their gold anytime soon, silver jewelry is making a fresh appearance, especially in unusual forms. This twisted hoop style from the iconic jeweler David Yurman is your new instant classic. Bring on the turkey!

From Left to Right:

• David Yurman, Cable Hoop Earrings $350

• Cato, Plus Size Chain Link Print Top $27.99

• Lysse, Hi Waist Plus Vegan Leather Leggings $118

• Circus by Sam Edelman, Daysi Bootie $59.99 (on Sale NOW from $90)

Is this year’s feast happening on the patio? Stay warm without having to cozy up to the outdoor heater with this season’s trending favorite – the shacket! This autumnal toned lovely we’ve chosen goes perfectly with a clean white  turtleneck top and a touch of bling with a chunky chain combo. Add a pair of easy fitting, dark jeans and make sure your footing is secure with a Chelsea-style bootie. You are now ready to handle all the ins and outs of your celebration.

 

From Left to Right:

• Cato, Autumn Plaid Shacket $32.99

• Land’s End, Long Sleeve Turtleneck in White $31.96

• Mott & Bow, Oliver Jeans $118

• Adornia, 14k Plated Statement Necklace $24.99 (on Sale NOW from $125)

• Clarks, Cologne Arlo British Tan Leather Bootie $150

If busy times in the kitchen mean a lot of lifting and plating, go for an outfit that moves with you. These easy wearing, tuxedo striped pants by Universal Standard add a fun formal vibe. Complement the pants with velvet burnout top that has just the right amount of luxe. Speaking of luxe, these gorg, multi-jeweled earrings from Kendra Scott adds visual interest. Round out your look with a pair of supple, super chic loafers by Sam Edelman.

 

From Left to Right:

• Universal Standard, Wide Leg Striped Pant $145

• Coldwater Creek, Velvet Burnout Blouse $109.95

• Circus NY, Nichola Loafer $67.95 (on Sale NOW from $90)

• Kendra Scott, Blair Gold Jewel Statement Earrings $198

Finally, when you just need to jump to it, this bold, logo jumpsuit from Diane von Furstenberg will do the trick. Pair it with some equally chic pieces, like some trending gold fringe earrings and sturdy, but playful ballet flats. And for that last little touch, add the stars and the moon in your hair with Lulus rhinestone hair pin set.

 

From Left to Right:

• Melissa Shoes x Jason Wu, Pointy II Ballet Flat $51.99 (on Sale NOW from $110)

• Lulus, Gold Rhinestone Star and Moon Hair Pin Set $18

• Diane von Furstenberg, Gulio Long Sleeve Jumpsuit $428

• Baublebar, Amy Earrings $48

That ends our collection. We hope you like the looks and from all of us we wish you a Happy Thanksgiving and Happy Hosting!