What to Wear to a Christmas Party: Men's Holiday Party Outfits

Quick Answer: What Should a Man Wear to a Christmas Party?

  • Formal or black tie: a tuxedo or dark suit with a bow tie or silk tie.
  • Office party: a suit or sport jacket with a dress shirt, tie optional.
  • Cocktail party: a suit in a rich colour or a textured jacket, with an open collar.
  • Casual get-together: a fine-knit sweater over a collared shirt with chinos or dark jeans.

Festive colours like burgundy, green and deep navy, and textures like velvet and plaid, set the holiday mood.

The holiday season brings a packed calendar: office parties, family dinners, cocktail evenings and maybe a formal gala. Each one calls for a slightly different outfit. Here's how to dress for every kind of Christmas party.

Formal and Black Tie Parties

For a formal holiday gala, go classic:

  • A black or midnight navy tuxedo with a white tuxedo shirt and black bow tie
  • Or a dark suit with a silk tie in a festive colour
  • Polished black shoes and cufflinks

Not sure if you need a tux? Read suit or tuxedo: navigating dress codes.

Office Holiday Parties

You'll see colleagues and maybe senior leaders, so aim for polished but festive:

  • A suit or sport jacket with dress pants
  • A crisp dress shirt, with or without a tie
  • A festive accent: a burgundy or green tie, a patterned pocket square or fun socks

Cocktail Parties

This is where you can have fun:

  • A suit in a rich colour like burgundy or green
  • A sateen dress shirt with an open collar under a suit jacket
  • A textured or patterned sport jacket with dark trousers

Casual Holiday Gatherings

For family dinners and casual parties:

  • A fine-knit sweater over a collared shirt
  • Chinos or dark jeans
  • Chukka boots, loafers or clean leather sneakers

Festive Colours and Fabrics

  • Colours: burgundy, forest green, deep navy, charcoal and black, with touches of gold or silver
  • Fabrics: velvet-look textures, jacquard and plaid

Don't Forget Your Coat

A tailored overcoat and a scarf keep you warm between the car and the party, and look far sharper than a parka over a suit.

FAQ

Should I wear a suit to an office Christmas party?

A suit or sport jacket is a safe choice. Add a festive tie or pocket square to keep it fun.

Can I wear a Christmas sweater to a holiday party?

At a casual or themed party, sure. For office and formal parties, keep it polished.

What colours should I wear to a Christmas party?

Burgundy, green, navy and charcoal all feel festive and elegant.

Shop Holiday Party Looks at Tip Top

Find suits, tuxedos and festive accessories, or read our full holiday clothing guide. Want help in person? Find one of our 80+ locations across Canada.

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