I have a controversial fashion take: holiday party fashion is the worst. As a minimalist with a penchant for black, my idea of a good outfit doesn’t involve ugly, itchy sweaters; heavy velvet; and sequins-on-top-of-sequins. So year after year, I rely on a reliable, if boring, formula of turtlenecks and taffeta skirts to get in the holiday sartorial spirit. As November rolled around this year, I started feeling like I got myself into a holiday dressing rut though. Could there be such a thing as a fashion Santa that can dress me for my holiday parties? I asked myself. Rent the Runway’s Concierge styling service was the answer.
Launched earlier this year, the rental platform’s personalized program helps customers narrow down thousands of its rental options from over 750 designers via text messaging with one of the company’s stylists. Through a series of questions and prompts, the stylist puts together a series of looks for the customer in just under a couple of hours, including clothing and accessories selections. “[It] offers a true luxury one-on-one styling experience with an expert that’s tailored to your specific needs,” says Rent the Runway’s Chief Merchant Sarah Tam of the program.
The way it works: Users text a stylist with their needs. I wrote, “I need help pulling a look for a holiday party.” Within a matter of seconds, the stylist replied with some questions for me, including if the event was formal or casual and if there were any trends I wanted to channel for the evening. In my mind, I pictured a chic business-core look reminiscent of the fashion in The Holiday or The Family Stone. “I’m looking for a casual, dressy outfit,” I texted, “particularly a dress or suit.” I also requested dark colors and no prints.
A few minutes later, the stylist sent over some links to looks available on RTR to make sure we were both on the same page aesthetically. I was happy to confirm we were. Next, they followed up with questions related to fit and coverage before sending a final list of outfits.
Options included a black tuxedo dress, an open-back blazer, leather pants, and a plum slip dress, as well as more formal selections like a bodycon dress with floor-length scarf detail and long-sleeved velvet dress. All were styles I could see myself wearing and did not involve the usual holiday party accouterments that I hate. Ultimately, I settled for a tuxedo dress with rosette detail from Bardot, a red shopping bag from Loeffler Randall, and gold hoop earrings from Crystal Haze Jewelry, to which I added a lace underskirt and Mary Jane shoes from my own closet. While I did freeze my legs on the way to the party, I was feeling the holiday cheer throughout the night, thanks to my outfit.
What was most impressive about using this service is that, contrary to holidays prior, I didn’t have to spend hours searching online or at a store for a look. Instead, I was able to delegate the task while still retaining control over my very strict holiday fashion guidelines — a service that would rank up a hefty price tag if I went with a personal stylist. (Currently, the service is available for free to new customers, with plans to expand the offering to existing users.) Plus, the experience felt like I was texting a friend for fashion advice, a scenario that many of us already put ourselves in year-round. But unlike those exchanges, which end up with more questions than answers, the RTR styling service provided clarity and a damn good outfit that looked and felt like me.
And I didn’t even have to leave home for it.
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‘Tis the season to shower loved ones with gifts. So if you’re eager to start holiday shopping, we’re here to help. We created a gift guide for Pact, the R29 reader- and editor-favorite brand full of organic cotton fashion and home goods that keeps on giving. And this guide includes all the items that we’re personally buying for the special people on our lists (or are adding to our own). But the best part is that all of our picks are gifts under $100.
The brand that brings us editor-favorite travel pants and cotton underwear has offerings across womenswear, menswear, and home that we’re eager to gift out this holiday season. Read on to find out what we’re buying for our friends and family members (matching pajama sets, gifts for men, towel sets, etc.) and what we’re carting up for ourselves (cotton underwear, pieces to build our holiday outfits, cooling bed sheets, etc.). Then maybe you’ll find your own favorites that’ll get you and your giftees in the holiday spirit.
Gift for: Friends and family
“I love gifting sleepwear! I especially love gifting sleepwear when it’s a PJ shorts set. In my experience, when in doubt, I just sort of assume they’re like me: a hot sleeper. I barely use pants for my pajamas, and I opt for shorts or boxers when I go to sleep. Unless I know for sure my giftee’s PJ preference, I believe you can’t go wrong with shorts. Plus, Pact is well-known for its super-soft fabric, and really, isn’t that what we all want when we go to sleep?” —Mercedes Viera, Former Associate Deals Writer
Gift for: Yourself
“Sleep is the only competitive sport I participate in, and while I do delight in scandalizing my neighbors, I think this is the year I invest in something other than silk robes to doze and/or grab packages from my porch in. I’m gifting myself this adorable sleep set this year because 1. It’s got ‘70s camp counselor vibes, and I’m into that for whatever reason. 2. Indecency arrests seem like a bummer.” —Sarah Crow, Affiliate Director
Gift for: Yourself
“Underwear is the one article of clothing I think one can never have enough of. I’ve heard rave reviews about Pact underwear and love letting the kitty breathe, so I’m planning on gifting myself a few pairs to get rid of all the ratty underwear I’ve had for way too long.” —Becca Sax, Affiliate Coordinator
Gift for: Friends or yourself
“I grabbed myself a pair of these leggings earlier this year, and without fail have gotten compliments every time I wear them. As an elderly millennial, all my friends are thrilled at the return of bootcut leggings, but I can tell they’re gun-shy about purchasing it for themselves. I personally love the classic black color, since it goes with anything. But for something a little more holiday/winter specific, I am a huge fan of the dark green. In fact, I might even grab another pair for myself.” —Charlotte Lewis, Sexual Health & Wellness Writer
Gift for: Friends
“Entering your late 20s is all about seeing the beauty of practicality. Your frontal lobe forms, and suddenly, you want nothing more than a supple, organic cotton bath sheet set — not to mention a supple, organic cotton bath sheet set with a waffle texture. So I’m carting this entire set for my good, most-adult friend Asha. She passed the bar this year, got a fancy lawyer job, and I’m so proud of her! She deserves a luxe set of Pact towels.” —Alexandra Polk, Affiliate Lifestyle Writer
Gift for: Dad
“I love a budget-friendly bundle, so I’m into this three-for-$60 T-shirt deal. I’m considering gifting these to my dad to add to his rotation of everyday shirts. This style comes in so many colors and striped prints, so I can pick ones that are tailored to his aesthetic. The French Navy, Mountain View, and Walnut Heather are particularly standing out to me for the holiday season.” —Victoria Montalti, Associate Affiliate Writer
Gift for: Yourself
“We all know, Pact’s organic cotton underwear game can’t be beat, so I’ll be gifting myself this six-pack in a subtly-festive array of colors and patterns. I sleep in a cotton boy short and big T-shirt every night, even in the fall and winter, and always love to have some new pairs in rotation.” —Kate Spencer, Senior Affiliate Partnerships Manager
Gift for: Yourself
“I can’t resist a collared sweater. It adds a polish factor to any knit, and Pact has crafted an everyday silhouette that I would love to wear literally everywhere. I’m a strong believer in treating yourself after any task — ask my friends. They say I’m a bad influence but the best person to tag along when you need a little push. The sweater is a little shy under $100, and I say, why not?” —Vivien Lee, Affiliate Fashion Writer
Gift for: Boyfriend
“These woven twill roll-up pants are so stylish for men’s clothing, and I love dressing up my Ken — so I’m gonna get him a pair! I really love these pants in all colors, but I’m going to order him a pair in cappuccino brown so he can be a fashion boy this winter. Plus, it will bring out his dreamy blue eyes.” —Becca
Gift for: Yourself
“The other day someone on the shopping team wondered aloud, ‘How many robes does one person need?’ I can understand that logic to a point, but I will go on the record as saying I have six and honestly can always use one more. A good flannel robe is deceptively hard to track down. I don’t want it to be fleece, or too long, or lined with anything that will make me overheat. I just want soft flannel against my skin all winter long. This pattern is good for the holidays but also for chilly weather generally.” —Marshall Bright, Affiliate Editor
Gift for: Yourself
“Currently in the process of getting a larger mattress, I’m also in need of brand new bedding. I tend to sleep hot, so I’ve been on the lookout for sheets that won’t have me waking up in a sweaty mess. And I’ll be honest, I may cart up an entire Pact sheet set in this percale fabric for over $100, but at the very least, I’m excited to try out the fitted sheet.” —Victoria
Gift for: Yourself
“I’m a sucker for bed sheets. I just adore having a plethora of options of super-soft fitted sheets to choose from. I don’t specifically request them as gifts from other people, but I do gift myself comfy bed sheets whenever I’m having a bad week as a little pick-me-up! I’m really picky when it comes to textures, and cotton percale is one my favorite fabrics to lay in — especially when they’re cooling and breathable!” —Mercedes
Gift for: Friends
“I have a friend who lives in corduroy when fall and winter come around. She’s already snagged a half-moon-shaped corduroy crossbody, wide-leg jeans, and a jacket, and now she’s onto the next. Before she buys everything in sight, I’m considering gifting her this forest green skirt. The model styles it so cutely, which matches my friend’s exact aesthetic that I know she’ll be thrilled to add another vintage-looking piece to her wardrobe.” —Vivien Lee
Gift for: Dad
“My dad loves running and often rides his motorcycle to work, so I’ve been eyeing the perfect zipped jacket to help him keep the winter chills away. This zipped jacket looks more polished than your average hoodie, but the soft French terry fabric offers sweatshirt-level comfort. I’m sure he will also appreciate the high collar, plus the front chest zip pocket for his keys. It’s the kind of practical gift that takes the hassle out of holiday shopping for dads.” —Venus
Gift for: Yourself
“This ribbed long-sleeve top is something I could see myself wearing all season long. I love the scoop neckline and the open-back detail in the back — I can envision myself wearing it with everything from relaxed denim to a silk midi skirt, cocktail in hand. Plus, the ivory Sandshell colorway is so chic.” —Karina
Gift for: Mom and sisters
“I don’t come from a family who prioritized matching pajamas during the holidays, and I not so secretly always wished I had. This year, I’m taking matters into my own hands and gifting my mom and two little sisters this flannel sleep set (option for full-length bottoms here) that looks cozy and classically plaid.” —Kate
Gift for: Sister
“My sister is graduating from college soon, and she’s entering the professional world. I love her dearly and want to give her something that she will use often, but I need to take note that she cares more about comfort than anything else. I think these incredibly soft pants with a stretchy waistband might be a great compromise between comfort and professionalism.” —Becca
Gift for: Partner
“I have chosen to romantically attach myself to someone who uses towels for what I might use to, say, sand down a piece of furniture before applying a fresh coat of paint. As such, I will be gifting them this lovely set of towels, described by reviewers with terms that feel important to me when it comes to purchasing towels, like ‘soft.’ And ultimately, that’s a gift for me, too.” —Sarah
Gift for: Yourself
“This ribbed midi skirt is going to the top of my holiday wish list. When I first saw it, I thought it would be a great grab for my stylish sisters, but TBH, I think I want it most for myself! I already know Pact’s clothes are comfy AF, but the dark red color and midi length make it elegant enough to wear to a holiday party, Thanksgiving dinner, or just out and about. Paired with my fave cozy turtleneck sweater and a pair of booties? I think it’s an unbeatable look.” —Charlotte
Gift for: Friends
“One of my best friends always puts on her Christmas list, ‘Those sweaters that don’t actually button up.’ Cardigans have been a staple of her closet probably since high school. I think she will love this option, which is specifically designed to be travel-friendly, complete with pockets. It will be like wearing a blanket the next time she gets on a plane to come visit me. (Fingers crossed!)” —Marshall
On Tuesday, the mall mainstay and the Ukranian fashion brand dropped their first collaboration, an 18-piece lineup stacked with party staples. From cherry red slip dresses and asymmetrical sweaters to tailored jackets and wide-leg trousers, the collection combines the minimalist, timeless aesthetic of Anna October with J.Crew’s knack for special occasion dressing. The collection also features jewelry, including a chunky bedazzled necklace.
The collection draws heavily from Anna October’s signature slip dresses, which the designer has made a key part of the brand, along with classic tailoring, chic bralettes, and asymmetrical silhouettes. And while the collaboration feels like a departure from the over-the-top holiday styles we’re used to seeing from J.Crew, it does feature sequined styles for the shimmer fans, including a slip skirt, which comes in black and pink, as well as a beige-toned mini dress.
J.Crew x Anna October comes off the heels of several successful collaborations from the American retailer this year, which has partnered with brands like Paula Mendoza and Union LA, as well as the New York City Ballet. Retailing from $78, the collection is available online now.
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Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. All product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
If you were a ’90s kid like myself, you dreamed of a closet full of leopard and hot pink Betsey Johnson designs. The kooky designer was known for her over-the-top prints and flare for the dramatic, which was pretty much everything our tween hearts desired. With the resurge of Y2k trends, we were hoping it was only a matter of time before Johnson’s maximalist designs cycled back en vogue, and we’re happy to say that time has finally come.
Just in time for the holidays (and holiday gifting!), Betsey Johnson has teamed up with intimate brand Parade to release a 22-piece collection inspired by Johsnon’s 1999 fashion show and the resurgence of Y2K and grunge fashions. The collab is everything we have come to expect from the iconic designer; it’s colorful, strappy, lacy, wild, and yes… filled with a ton of leopard print. However, unlike the early-aughts fits of our youth, Parade has made sure these wild designs fit bodies of all types. The brand’s commitment to accessibility in lingerie and undergarments is exemplified in the collection, which has bras, panties, slips and more in sizes ranging from XS to 3X and prices falling from $12-$72 — because everyone deserves to celebrate the shared love of fun self-expression and Y2K nostalgia with an edge that only Betsey Johnson and Parade can deliver.
Keep reading to scope out our must-shop pieces from the line, or shop the whole collection exclusively at Parade right now.
You can’t throw it back to the 90’s without a perfect slip dress. This slip has adjustable straps so you can show off your risque side at home and a more demure stule at a holiday party (this houndstooth pattern is so festive!). Just pair it with your fav pair of tights, chunky loafers, and butterfly clips to really get yourself in the Y2K mood.
Need help remembering the days of the week? Betsey Johnson has you covered with her take on Parade’s best-selling silky mesh panties. Each pair is embroidered with the day of the week and Y2K-era graphics like a butterfly, rose, lipstick print, lightning bolt, and more.
It wouldn’t be a true Betsey Johnson collection without leopard print. This matching bra and shorts set has us roaring with nostalgic happiness. Take a walk on the wild side with these flutter shorts, which are made from Parade’s silky soft glow satin. Their side slit and adjustable ties make for a roomy and breezy fit you’ll want to live in. Pair it with the matching longline bralette for a matching set that’s a real vibe.
Another mix-and-match set to add to your cart is this flyaway cami and cheeky combo. These two are also available in the leopard print, but we suggest mixing things up with the checkmate/thorn prints. The combo of red and black houndstooth and roses is giving us modern Harley Quinn in the best way possible. Not only that, but the matching lace-up and tie details make this silky set as comfortable as they are flattering.
Tap into your inner ’90s grunge kid with this incredible semi-sheer plaid bodysuit. Made with detachable sleeves and lace-up front detailing, this body-sculpting mesh piece is versatile enough to be paired with jeans, your fav silk maxi skirt, or a pair of well-worn ripped fishnets and combat boots. Whether you’re ready to hit the clubs or hang with the family, this is a holiday party essential.
If silk cheekies and corsettes and bodysuits aren’t for you, don’t worry. The Betsey Johnson collab also has quite a few cotton styles for the ultimate nostalgic comfort. We’re partial to these breathable vintage-style briefs, which evoke our fav Y2K teen movie locker room scenes.
We already have Parade’s afterglow lace-up corset in a few different colors, but we’d be fools not to add this instant classic to our cart ASAP. Betsey Johnson’s iconic combo of leopard print and hot pink is on display in this attention-grabbing luxe corset, which can be paired with matching panties, flutter shorts, or streetwear to wear outside the house.
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