What Shoes to Wear to a Holiday Party

What to Wear to a Work Holiday Party

Let's start with the office party. You want something that says "I'm professional," but also "I know how to have fun." Kitten heels, pumps, or booties are the clear winner here. They are elevated enough for a dress code, but grounded enough to survive awkward elevator chats and buffet line banter. Metallic slingbacks and polished pumps from brands like Aldo and Steve Madden are doing the most in the best way.

What to Wear to a Family Holiday Party

Family gatherings are a whole different vibe. You will be fielding questions, passing dishes, and maybe refereeing a board game, so comfort is key, but you don't have to sacrifice style.

• Fashion sneakers give your look a casual feel and still make a statement. Think the adidas VL Court 3.0 Sneaker  in a green croc print or the Reebok Ultra Lo Mary Jane Sneaker in metallic rose gold for a festive but casual pop. Shop the whole assortment of fashion sneakers at DSW.
• Ballet flats keep you comfortable through hours of family chit chat. Check out the DV by Dolce Vita Karma Ballet Flat for a versatile option or browse the full ballet flat selection from Dolce Vita, Kelly & Katie, and Journee.

What to Wear to a Friends' Holiday Party

Now for the friend festivities. This is your moment to go bold and get your party shoes on, or, depending on the function, keep it extremely casual. Whether it's a night out at a nice restaurant or a chill evening watching festive movies and eating festive snacks, we have options for both.

• For a night out: platform heels, strappy sandals, or a tall dressy boot if the party is more espresso martinis than eggnog at home. Crown Vintage Veda Boot the drama and pairs well with all your holiday looks. Kick it up another notch with the Sam Edelman Signature Collection Salem Platform Sandal in metallic gold.
• For a cozy night in: everything from classic UGG Sippers like the Loria Clog or the Bearpaw Tabitha Slipper to the overly festive Olivia Miller Holiday Reindeer Slippers.

What to Wear to a Black-Tie Holiday Party

If you've got a black-tie bash on the books, it is time to turn it up. Pointed-toe pumps, velvet textures, and elegant details are all fair game. The Jessica Simpson Rhuna Sandal or a velvet pair from Kelly & Katie like the Soray Pump can help you make an entrance. You can also browse our full selection of heels and find your perfect pair, then keep the rest of your look simple so the shoe stays the focus.

Holiday Party Accessories

Don't forget festive accessories. An eye-catching bag, a hair accessory, or bold tights worn with heels can take your look from "nice" to "noticed." It is all about the details, and DSW has plenty. Try repeating one metallic tone across your shoes and your bag so everything looks planned, and add a hair accessory if your shoes are the simple part of the look.

Get Into The Spirit With DSW

The opportunities are truly endless when putting together a holiday outfit. It is a time to shine and be bold, so why not have some fun with it? Check out more in our holiday lookbook to see what else we are loving this season. Looking for some gift inspiration? We got you: shop our holiday gift guide and you’ll be sure to find something for everyone on your list. And hey, if you aren’t in the holiday spirit juuuuust yet, go ahead and browse our fall trends to stay on top of it this year. Here you can find a complete collection of footwear trending this fall. Need it today? Buy online and pick up at a DSW store near you!

FAQs

What shoes should I wear to a holiday party?

Kitten heels, ankle booties, metallic slingbacks, and velvet pumps are the top picks for 2027 holiday parties. Choose a dressier heel for office and evening events, and a flat or fashion sneaker for family gatherings.

What shoes should I wear to a work holiday party?

Kitten heels and ankle booties work for most office parties. Polished pumps and metallic slingbacks from Aldo and Steve Madden add a festive touch without going over the top.

What are the most comfortable shoes for a holiday party?

Ballet flats, loafers, and fashion sneakers are the most comfortable. A pointed-toe slingback with a lower heel is the comfortable option if you want a heel.

What color shoes should I wear to a holiday party?

Metallic silver and gold, black, burgundy, and forest green all work for the season. Metallics and velvet make the biggest festive statement.