Your guide to Christmas party fashion pieces that turn heads

Christmas is the perfect time to have fun with fashion — whether cosy, chic, or sparkling.

It’s no news that Nigeria is wildly one of the most anticipated countries to visit during the Christmas holidays due to the widespread underlying tradition of large year-end celebrations and diaspora homecomings. The term, Detty December, meaning a "heavy" or "wild" party season, exploded in usage, turning the Christmas period into a major cultural and economic event in Lagos, Nigeria.

So, how do you dress for Detty December without looking like you’ve just rolled out of bed and wandered from your room to festive events? In most cases, Christmas Day celebrations often happen outside the house, with lunches, visits, or full-blown parties planned. Either way, you still want to look put-together and feel good.

That’s where a more thoughtful approach to dressing comes in. Here’s a curated styling guide to help you figure out what to wear to Christmas parties — without the last-minute rush.  Think styling tricks, unexpected combinations, modern silhouettes, and subtle festive touches that feel intentional, effortless, and still very you.

Family lunch or daytime gatherings

An elegant white dress

Pretty lady in a beautiful white dress via Pinterest (original creator unknown).

You just can’t go wrong with a white dress. It exudes luxury and calmness, perfectly capturing the holiday vibe. It pairs beautifully with cosy layers like a tailored coat, knit cardigan, or even a soft shawl to keep warm. Add gold or red accessories to give it that subtle sparkle. 

Denim

Street style via Pinterest (original creator unknown).

Denim works surprisingly well for Christmas. All you need to do is layer properly to stay warm. To bring in that December feel, add red accents like red heels, ballet flats, or a mini bag. It’s an easy, stylish option for hosting at home or heading out for a casual Christmas brunch.

Wool jumper

Street style via Pinterest (original creator unknown).

With the harmattan hill in full effect, dressing light isn’t an option. This is where your trusty jumper comes in. For a more fashionable take, opt for a knit or wool jumper that feels cosy yet elevated. Pair it with a satin skirt for an elegant contrast that looks coordinated without trying too hard.

Evening or night parties

Velvet

Tubo Bereni in Tubo via Pinterest

Velvet is a Christmas classic, but the key is avoiding overly Santa-esque vibes. Try colours other than red, or if you do choose red, balance it out with neutral tones like black or white. This keeps the look suitable yet chic, rather than costume-like.

Sequins

Model in a sequin dress by Kilentar via Pinterest (original creator unknown).

Nothing says celebration quite like sequins. They’re a great choice for Christmas when a little extra sparkle feels right on theme. You can also pair it with simple, neutral items like a crisp white shirt, a black blazer, or minimal accessories. If you opt for a top-and-bottom set or a statement dress, this is an effortless way to elevate your look for Christmas parties, dinners, or evening celebrations — all while staying perfectly on theme. 

Monochrome dress

Pretty lady in a monochrome dress via Pinterest (original creator unknown).

A black and white monochrome dress is a timeless choice for Christmas — sophisticated, effortless, and always in style. For a festive twist, layer it with a cosy faux fur jacket or statement shoes. Add a pop of colour with red heels, a bold clutch, or shiny accessories to give it that holiday edge. Perfect for evening parties, dinners, or even casual Christmas gatherings.

House party/hangout with friends

Christmas pyjamas

Pretty lady in a Christmas pajama via Pinterest (original creator unknown).

In Nigeria, we don’t typically have the tradition of ugly cardigans or matching pyjamas on Christmas morning. If you’re in the mood to try something different this year, this could be a fun route to take, especially for a staycation with friends. Go all out by adding festive accessories like reindeer antlers or Santa hats for the full holiday effect.

Casual co-ords

Model in Wanni Fuga via Pinterest

You don’t really want to look too overdressed for a house party, and you want to go as comfortably as possible. For relaxed celebrations, casual co-ords or chic loungewear are the ultimate go-to. Add subtle accessories to bring the whole ensemble to life, keeping it stylish but comfy for an easygoing vibe with friends.

Beach or outdoor parties

Beach dress

Fisayo Longe in Kai Kollective via Pinterest

For Christmas by the water, a breezy beach/sun dress is the perfect choice. Lightweight, comfortable and stylish, it lets you enjoy the sun and sand while still feeling the Christmas vibe. Opt for bright colours, playful prints, or subtle holiday-inspired accents, and pair them with chic sandals, a sunhat, or minimal accessories to complete your beach holiday. 

Accessories

Credit: Ali Summer via Pinterest

Accessories are the finishing touch that can transform any Christmas outfit from simple to standout. Keep the Christmas spirit in your look with a hint of red or green in your accessories — whether it’s statement earrings, a bold necklace, festive hairpieces, or a pop of colour on your shoes and bag.  They let you express your personality, elevate your look, and add a little sparkle or charm to every gathering. In short, the right accessory would help you to celebrate with style.

Dress well for the moments that matter

Christmas is a season of togetherness, warmth, and celebration, and what we wear can quietly honour the moment. Dressing with intention becomes a way of showing up fully, for the people around us and for the joy of the day itself. So choose an outfit that makes you feel your best, step into family and celebration, and allow yourself to bask in the beauty and meaning of the season.