Styling Red for the Holidays: How to wear and style red for chic holiday outfits.

By Lisa Oberst 13 December 2025
Woman standing to side with black mesh top, denim and Womads red crossbody bag handing from shoulder.

Red is bold, classic and the holiday color. Whether you’re heading to a cozy dinner, shopping at Christmas markets, or ringing in the New Year, red is a really fun way to feel festive. But it can be intimidating, it's bold and a lot of color to work with. 

So we are breaking down red holiday outfit ideas and tips on how to style red for the holidays. 

Full disclosure: We’re skipping green. Red and green together just feel too on-the-nose—and that’s not the chic we’re going for.

Red & Blue: office holiday party look

Navy is the understated neutral that works so well during the holidays. It’s softer than black and is still super versatile, and festive without trying too hard. I also love Navy because of how it works with other materials like denim, suede and velvet. These different materials can dress up or down a look.

How to Wear It:

  • Navy base, think denim for casual, trousers to dress it up, Then add in your red, sweaters, bodysuits, blouses or even in the accessories, such as your bag.

  • Play with texture, a velvet or suede navy blazer paired with a red top and neutral bottoms dresses the look up and is perfect for professional settings. 

  • Gold also works beautifully with these colors. Accessorize with gold accents like a Womads Gold Crossbody for a more festive look.

This navy and red combo is perfect for Christmas Eve outfits or more dressy dinners. It’s timeless, easy to rewear, and transitions seamlessly into New Year’s Eve looks. 

Woman wearing red crossbody bag with denim and blue cardigan.

The blue and red combo is also subtle enough to be professional and worn to an office holiday party. 

Woman wearing grey trousers, red top, navy blazer and red crossbody bad and red shoes.

If you want to go subtle with the blue you can complete your look with Night Sky Blue Womads Peep-Toes. They are lightweight, super versatile and the perfect navy to your red. 

Red with Lilac : Unexpectedly Elegant

Red and Lilac might sound daring, but when styled thoughtfully, it’s romantic and so fun. It gives a soft glam and it's perfect for a colorful holiday outfit without being too intense. 

Woman wearing red leather pants, purple knit with red crossbody bag.

How to Wear It:

  • Pair soft lilac or muted rose with deep red so the colors don’t clash.

  • If you want to play with these colors but more subtle, play with accessories. The Womads Lilac Crossbody is a perfect way to add color to your red holiday outfit. 

Woman wearing red button up blouse, blush pink trousers and gold crossbody bag.

Choosing the deeper red tones will pair beautifully with the light lilac. It will also make the bag stand out while still wearing red for the Holidays. If lilac is a bit too much color for you opt for a Red Crossbody bag or a neutral. 

The lilac and red color combo is my go-to for holiday brunches, and gift exchanges with friends. It also pairs great with a mimosa on Christmas Eve.

Red & Metallics: The Holiday Sparkle

When it comes to what to wear for New Year’s Eve, nothing beats red and metallic. Whether you prefer gold, silver, or champagne tones, red and metallic is a win every time.

Woman wearing red sparkly maxi skirt, red sweater, gold crossbody bag and gold oxfords.

How to Wear It:

  • A red sweater with a red shimmery skirt with gold oxfords or a metallic bag. If you live somewhere a bit warmer you can also opt for the gold peep toe shoes. 

You can also just use the metallic to accessorise because why not add a bit of sparkle. Gold accessories can easily transition into New Years which is a huge win for those who don’t want to buy something new for every occasion. 

Some color psychology:
When choosing colors to wear for New Year’s Eve, red symbolizes luck and passion, while gold draws abundance and joy. Obviously together the pairing is perfect and the energy you want to bring into the New Year.

Red and Neutrals: Effortless and Elevated

Prefer a softer vibe? Ground red with neutrals like beige, caramel, cream, or soft gray. This combo is timeless and perfect for minimalist holiday dressers. You can also work with pieces you likely already have. 

Woman wearing blue denim, black mesh top holding red Womads crossbody around her waist.

How to Wear It:

  • Denim and red go great together. The darker navy is beautiful with red but also a lighter wash pairs great. Add in your favorite dressy top, I love a crop top or something with a bit of mesh. It adds so much detail without going overboard.

  • Caramel + Red = effortless chic. Our Caramel Womads collection is part of our core collection because they are so easy to style. Pair a red sweater with denim or a skirt and accessorize with caramel Peep Toes or Oxfords. 

Woman wearing caramel peep toe oxfords with wide leg red trousers.

Prints That Work:
Our Spotted Print (mocha and cream tones) makes a subtle yet stylish partner for red. It’s neutral with a twist—perfect for pattern lovers who prefer a soft touch.

Woman in red sweater dress, red heels and the spotted crossbody bag.

Perfect for:

  • Everyday errands with a festive edge

  • Minimalist holiday parties

  • Cozy airport or travel day looks

The all white look is also a perfect base that makes the red pop. It is perfect for a stylish but simple Christmas Party outfit or New Years Eve outfit. 

Woman walking up stairs in white dress wearing red peep toe shoes and red crossbody bag.

Style Tip:

Let red be your statement. Keep the rest of your look neutral for a simple but put together look.

Final Thoughts: Red Is Your Holiday Secret Weapon

From romantic pinks to chic navy, glam metallics, and timeless neutrals, don’t let red freak you out because it can be easy to style if you know what you are doing. Whether it’s your outfit or your accessory moment, red for the holidays brings warmth and festive vibes. 

So this season, lean into color combinations that feel fresh, versatile, and full of personality. Let your Womads pieces carry you (and your essentials) through every holiday moment in style.