The Perennial Style

Luxury Holiday Party Dresses for 2026: Sequins, Sparkle and Showstopping Accessories

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Holiday party season is officially here, and there’s no better excuse to sparkle. Whether you have a black-tie gala, an office party or a festive dinner with friends on the calendar, these holiday party dresses and accessories are the ones we’d wear to every celebration this year.

Ellen Flowers in a holiday party dress with a red clutch

This season is all about sequins, rich jewel tones and a little bit of shine. Self-Portrait remains our favorite label for party dresses that feel special without being over the top, and a pair of crystal heels or a statement clutch is the easiest way to make any look feel brand new.

Shop the Holiday Party Edit

The Best Luxury Holiday Party Dresses

1. Self-Portrait Floral Sequin Embellished Mini Dress in Pink

You know we love pink, and this sequin mini is our top pick of the season. It’s flirty, feminine and perfect for a cocktail party or New Year’s Eve. Pair it with metallic heels and let the dress do the talking. It’s about $650.

Shop the Self-Portrait Floral Sequin Embellished Mini Dress in Pink →

2. Self-Portrait Twisted Sequined Mesh Midi Dress in Burgundy

Burgundy is one of the richest colors of the season, and this sequined midi is made for holiday dinners and black-tie-optional events. The midi length makes it easy to wear with heels or even knee-high boots. It’s about $895.

Shop the Self-Portrait Twisted Sequined Mesh Midi Dress in Burgundy →

3. Self-Portrait Sequined Lace Fitted Maxi Dress in Brown

For a formal event, this sequined lace maxi is pure old-Hollywood glamour. The chocolate brown tone feels unexpected and sophisticated, and it’s a dress you’ll wear for years. It’s about $970.

Shop the Self-Portrait Sequined Lace Fitted Maxi Dress in Brown →

4. Self-Portrait Sequin Mini Dress in Black

Every closet needs a sparkly little black dress. This one is on sale for about $423 (down from $650), and it’s the kind of piece you’ll reach for every December.

Shop the Self-Portrait Sequin Mini Dress in Black →

The Accessories That Finish the Look

Jimmy Choo Jenn Heel Sandal in Gold

A gold strappy sandal goes with every party dress you own, from black sequins to burgundy velvet. Jimmy Choo’s sandals are glamorous and polished, and this pair is currently about $718.

Shop the Jimmy Choo Jenn Heel Sandal in Gold →

Reiss Emily Crystal-Embellished Mesh Court Shoes

Crystal-embellished pumps are one of the prettiest shoe trends of the season. This pair from Reiss is elegant and easy to wear, at about $335.

Shop the Reiss Emily Crystal-Embellished Mesh Court Shoes →

Judith Leiber Couture Crystal Evening Bag

If you want the ultimate heirloom accessory, nothing beats a Judith Leiber crystal minaudière. Each bag is hand-set with crystals, and it’s a true work of art you’ll carry to special events for decades. It’s about $3,995.

Shop the Judith Leiber Couture Crystal Evening Bag →

Ellen Flowers in a black tuxedo dress for a holiday party

What to Wear to Every Holiday Party

  • Black tie: A floor-length gown or sequined maxi dress with a statement clutch and fine jewelry.
  • Cocktail attire: A sequin mini or midi dress with strappy heels.
  • Office party: A velvet or sequin midi with long sleeves, paired with pumps or knee-high boots.
  • Holiday dinner with friends: A silk slip skirt, a cozy cashmere sweater and sparkly heels.
  • New Year’s Eve: Go all out with head-to-toe sparkle, metallic heels and a glamorous coat.

Tips for Wearing Sequins Like a Pro

Keep everything else simple when you wear sequins: polished hair, a classic red or berry lip and minimal jewelry. Top it off with one of our favorite luxury winter coats for a glamorous entrance. For more ideas, see our edit of elevated little black dresses and our favorite velvet dresses for New Year’s Eve. And don’t forget the finishing touch: a holiday-ready manicure.

Shop More Holiday Party Looks

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I wear to a holiday party in 2026?

Sequins, velvet and rich jewel tones like burgundy, emerald and chocolate brown are the biggest holiday party trends of 2026. A sequin mini or midi dress with metallic heels works for most cocktail-attire events.

What is the difference between cocktail attire and black tie?

Black tie calls for floor-length gowns and formal accessories, while cocktail attire allows for shorter dresses such as minis and midis paired with heels.

How do I style a sequin dress?

Let the sequins be the focal point. Keep jewelry minimal, choose simple heels in a metallic or neutral tone, and add a sleek clutch and polished hair.

What shoes go with a sequin dress?

Strappy metallic sandals, classic pumps and crystal-embellished heels all pair beautifully with sequin dresses. Knee-high boots are a chic option for a midi-length dress.

Which holiday look is your favorite? Tell us in the comments!

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