First, look in your own closet for festive pieces (which you may have left hanging in the closet for two years because of corona). Do a pass to see if it still fits or if minor adjustments or repairs are needed. Also be critical enough, because are you ever going to lose that 15 kilos or can that dress in size S really go?
Also ask your (in-law) mother, (in-law) sister or friends if they have any things they no longer wear that would be nice for the holidays. Don't forget your grandma or old aunt, because that's where the most beautiful vintage items can be found!
Combine what you have and see what you're still missing. With a dress you will of course be done the fastest, but wouldn't it be super cool if you layered it with another item? A waistcoat with glitter, or a cape, a nice jacket, or who knows a classic scarf? Also check immediately if you still have tights or socks that look neat.
If you know what you're missing (a skirt, a blouse, a jacket, a pair of trousers) you can start looking specifically at thrift stores or second-hand shops. They usually have a separate section with party clothes around this time of year. There you will find the most beautiful items with sequins, glitter, tulle and velvet. Also look for vintage items, because they can really elevate your look, and you have something that no one else has!
Don't skip the men's department! An oversized tuxedo jacket can certainly pimp your outfit and is also handy, because more space for your Christmas bloat moment.
Also check the shoes and boots. Because party pumps and other beautiful festive shoes are often worn very little and exchanged for something else. If you want to enjoy it for a few years, choose black. Or choose something really striking such as lacquer, velvet or with glitter, there is bound to be something beautiful. Also think about cost per wear. If you see something that is a bit more expensive in price, but will last for years, then that is certainly not a bad purchase!
Find a good party bag right away. Here too, people who have used those bags often have little use and can therefore find them in very good condition at the thrift store. Or look at your grandma for her most beautiful vintage bag. If you come across something beautiful at the cycle, always check whether the material is still suitable for the next round. Sometimes certain bags are made of cheaper plastic that has dried out after a few years and starts to 'break' or flakes come off. A bag made of genuine leather can usually be polished with some shoe cream.
And what do you think of vintage jewelery or a special belt? With it you can give any outfit instant glam. Good searching can take some time, because most thrift stores do not distinguish between jewelery from now and then. Yet there are always gems to be found, sometimes they are sometimes in a separate display case. Don't be put off by that and ask for the price, because negotiating is usually possible!
Styling your husband or boyfriend in a second-hand outfit is not that difficult. See if you come across a nice bow tie or tie, because they are usually full at the second hand stores. Sometimes also vintage designer items.. If your husband does not really have a nice suit, you will also find plenty of Armani or Hugo Boss in very good condition at the thrift store. After the holidays you can still combine these nicely separately or in combination with basic t-shirts and sneakers.
There are also many fun things for the little ones. And they also wear those clothes so little that it is really a shame to buy new. A beautiful party dress or a nice scream is quickly found and remains fun. Do you find a cute item but the color or style is perhaps just too summery? With fabric paint you can also transform the item in a wash into a more Christmassy color, such as red or black. And while you're at it, a beautiful brooch or application makes a piece of clothing truly unique!
