As comfy and wearable as pandemic pajama pants were, I don’t miss them! Because when it comes to this 2023 holiday party season, I’m happily embracing a more dressed-up lifestyle. And quietly luxurious, drapey velvet pants are the perfect way to kickstart a great day-into-night outfit.

What is Quiet Luxury and why is it so appealing? While it’s often associated with the ultra-wealthy (think “Succession” wardrobes!), it’s really all about timeless, understated pieces that look expensive due to their high-quality materials. Quiet Luxury is the opposite of trendy. It’s finding, wearing, and loving pieces that will look and feel relevant for years to come.

Like this pretty pair of velvet pants, which are an absolute dream to wear. For this look, I paired them with a slouchy, slightly cheeky, and a little bit trendy sweater. But a simple blouse, or even a graphic tee, would look just as chic. Love the pockets. And the easy, elastic waist that just might be made for holiday appetizers and meals. For some waistline definition and a bit more polish there’s nothing better than my go-to double G belt — truly one of my all-time best accessory investments.

For footwear, it had to be these gorgeous yet understated “splurge” sandals I’ve been dying to wear. Sandals in winter? If you pair them with tights or socks, why not! Love the goldtone hardware (no loud logo) and unexpected round heels. But I think some snazzy sneakers or a pair of patent leather Mary Janes would look super cool, too.

And let’s not forget just a little sparkle! A statement piece always goes a long way, so I shopped my closet for this chunky rhinestone necklace. Next? All signs pointed to this “uniquely me” (and you!) zodiac bag.

The last-but-not-least, ready-for-anything outerwear option du jour? A polished black jacket finished with plush faux shearling trim on the collar, pockets and cuffs.

How do you say “Après Chic?”

Jacket: (Badgley Mischka, on sale) Similar here and here.

Sweater: (H&M, sold out but this version is just as chic!) Also really like this (only $15!), this and this.

Pants: (Faherty) Also like these (under $100) and these (wrinkle-free, travel-ready, no tummy panel!) .

Necklace: (old) Equally glittery options here and here.

Belt: (Gucci, more affordable resale option here)

Bag: (Brandon Blackwood) Also like this and this (60% off).

Shoes: (Ferragamo, now 40% off!) Under $100 Mary Janes here, and super sparkly sneakers here.

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Photography by Kristin Moore-Gantz @artdirectthis.