WHAT TO WEAR TO A HOLIDAY PARTY
Holiday party season is basically a marathon of mingling, and your shoes need to keep up. Whether you’re headed to a work event, a family gathering, or a friend’s festive function, DSW has the footwear and accessories to help you show up looking like you understood the assignment.
Two Words: Dress. Code.
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 or ankle booties are the clear winner here—they’re 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.
Family gatherings? That’s a whole different vibe: you’ll be fielding questions, passing dishes, and maybe refereeing a board game. Comfort is key, but you don’t have to sacrifice style. Fashion sneakers can be a great choice to give your outfit a casual feel but still make a statement—think Sam Edelman Signature Collection Timmie Court Sneaker or the adidas Grand Court Lo in metallic silver for a festive but casual pop. Another way you can keep it comfortable but festive for those long hours of family chit chat is with a ballet flat or loafer. You can again check out the Sam Edelman Signature collection for a couple different festive ballet flat options, or check out our full section from brands like Dolce Vita, Kelly & Katie, and Journee. If a loafer is more your vibe you can browse our full selection or try one of our favorites, the Kelly & Katie Danisha Loafer.
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 with the girls watching festive movies and eating festive snacks, we have options for both. Platform heels, strappy sandals, or a tall dressy boot if the party’s more espresso martinis than eggnog at home. The Mix No. 6 Nole boot really brings the drama if that is what you are looking for and pairs well with all your holiday looks, or kick it up a notch even higher with the Jessica Simpson Vahlen Sandal. Now if your festivities call for a more casual and cozy shoe, we have plenty of those as well. Everything from your classic UGG Sippers to your overly festive Olivia Miller Holiday Reindeer Slippers.
And if you’ve got a black-tie bash on the books? Time to turn it up. Pointed-toe pumps, velvet textures, and elegant details are all fair game. The Cole Haan Pella Pump or a velvet number from Chinese Laundry could help you make an entrance. You can also browse our full selection of heels and find your perfect pair.
Don’t sleep on accessories. An eye-catching bag, a hair accessory, or bold tights worn with heels can take your outfit from “nice” to “noticed.” It’s all about the details, and DSW’s got plenty.
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? Check us out on DoorDash or buy online and pick up at a DSW store near you!
Stay (style) inspired
Style the Western Boot
Your first rodeo or not, get ready to enter your cowgirl era.
Let Us Surprise You
Learn all about how DSW is finding joy in shopping for shoes and what our rebrand means for you.
DSW Trend Alert: Shades Of Brown
Show some love to fall’s full color palette—starting with brown. Elevate your style with rich tones and must-have accessories.
Trends we're falling for at DSW
Time to bid farewell to our summer sandals and say hello to leopard print, Bordeaux, and more.
Gen Z shoe guide: Top styles of 2025
We scoped the styles—come see what the cool crowd’s wearing.
Types of fashion sneakers
Your go-to guide for all the sneaker styles you need.
Shop by fit
How Should a Shoe Fit?
Kids’ shoe size guide
Find the perfect fit for your little ones.
How to wear sneakers with dresses
Explore all the ways to wear this trendy combo.
Walking shoes buying guide
Learn the ins & outs of choosing the most comfortable shoes.