I Just Test Drove These Untraditional Holiday Trends From H&M and I’m Low-Key in Love

Published on 11/14/2019 at 6:05 PM

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For most people, the mere mention of the holidays ignites instant excitement for seasonal movies, tree decorating, gift exchanges, and quality time with friends and family. While that stuff is all well and good, what I look forward to most this time of year is the fashion. I plan my outfits meticulously for every event on my calendar and take my shopping strategy very seriously, ensuring I incorporate various trends into my looks throughout the course of the season.

Staying within budget is also essential (between gifts, plane tickets, and extra social events, my wallet is already stretched thin!), so it makes sense that H&M would be my first stop for on-trend holiday pieces. But I didn't realize until recently just how much of a one-stop shop it truly is.

When H&M asked me to be an honorary member of its esteemed League, I could hardly contain my excitement. The League is a hand-picked group of influencers that H&M chooses every year. As a member of The League, these influencers become ambassadors for the brand and are part of the H&M family for life. As a fashion editor, I regularly look to style influencers for inspiration, and I couldn't believe I'd get to hang IRL with the very same people I've been admiring for years. Not to mention I'd be spending over three days with them in the Utah mountains (at the gorgeous Lodge at Blue Sky Ranch) participating in holiday-centric photo shoots and activities. Dream made!

Before my trip of a lifetime, H&M sent me on a fashion spree where I got to pick out my outfits for our jam-packed weekend. I spent a solid two hours trying on everything in sight and styling like a madwoman in my dressing room. Although I definitely kept the holiday theme in mind, I didn't want to dress overly holiday-y — ya feel? My goal was to create elevated ensembles that, while 100-percent holiday approved, would continue to be versatile and chic long into the new year.

Ahead, find the looks I came up with, all of which are festive, stylish, and totally affordable. You can bet I'll be turning to these pieces not just all season long, but all through 2020 as well!

Turtleneck + Button-Up Jumper

I think of this as my "family-gathering outfit." For a holiday meal with the fam, there's no need for anything flashy, but of course you want to look sharp. Always. Black on black is an easy, no-fail choice, and I love how this jumper can be styled so many different ways (bang, meet buck). You can never have too many layering turtlenecks, especially when they're black, and I love how stretchy and comfortable this one is.

Finally, I added some holiday pizzazz through my accessories. I chose a gold chain necklace and coordinating pearl-drop earrings, as well as a velvet scrunchie. In my book, statement boots are always a win, and I love how these beauties add personality and style without trying too hard.

Leather-Effect Pants + Blazer

The leather trousers take this turtleneck-and-blazer combo up a notch, which is why I love it so much for the holidays. It's a look that can easily take you from office to office party, but also works just as well for Friendsgiving. I opted for sneakers as opposed to heels or booties to give my outfit an effortless, 2019 vibe.

Add Fur . . .

Up the drama with a little — or a lot — of faux fur. Surprisingly warm with a nice weight, this coat is the perfect addition when you want to make a statement. Plus, it's oh-so fabulous, no?

Sheer Top + White Trousers

This look is about as quintessential holiday as I got. When putting it together, I was thinking of holiday parties, a festive cocktail hour, or a dressy dinner out on the town. The sheer trend is huge right now and I love how this top also has subtle polka dots and puff sleeves. It's a great layering piece in general and can also be worn over a turtleneck or cami if you're not feeling the whole see-through thing.

White slacks feel refreshing compared to black or gray and will help you stand out from the crowd. On the bottom, I styled this outfit with black heels, and to pull it all together, I couldn't resist adding an embellished headband, gold earrings, and a neutral clutch. Lastly, my red lip seals the deal!

Sparkly Dress + Plaid

Glitter and plaid may be an unexpected combo, but it's one that works. This look is fun for New Year's Eve and I especially love how the blazer gives my silver dress (which is classic NYE) a quirky twist. I can see myself wearing this look to dinner and a party before shedding the top layer as I hit the dance floor.

Depending on where — and for how long — you're going, heels or booties work well with this outfit. I opted for sneakers just because they're so comfy. For me, sneakers know no bounds and are fair game — even for evening occasions. To polish my look off, I wore a dainty pair of statement earrings for an extra burst of sparkle.