What to Wear When Hosting Christmas Dinner at Home

Bonjour

This question comes back every year: I will be hosting Christmas dinner at home, what shall I wear?

On this occasion, as you will be the host, you need to wear an outfit that is both stylish and comfortable. You will be pretty busy as the host so the last thing you need is to worry about your outfit or having to adjust your top/skirt if they do not fit or behave as they should.
Your whole outfit has to be practical but stylish at the same time. This is not an easy feat.
Below are a few rules to keep in mind, to be comfortable and feel beautiful all day long:

The don’ts:

• Whatever your outfit, dress or top/skirt/trousers, it must not be tight: you will need to move around and be comfortable all evening.
• Avoid wearing any top or dress with dangly sleeves so that they keep away from food, drinks and the gravy.
• No super high heels as you will be walking around all evening serving and being the perfect hostess. The last thing you want is a broken ankle or tripping in front of your guests!
• No short skirt: You will be bending down to the oven to take the turkey out and don't want to show more than what's on the menu.
• Avoid wearing an outfit that might attract food or drinks stains. Wearing white is tempting fate.
• Resist the lure of wearing flashing novelty earrings: Let the Christmas tree be the centrepiece.

The do’s:

• Do wear a dress - so easy to pull on in a hurry and no top that might ride up while you are busy.
• As you need to pare down the accessories and be careful of stains, you could opt for a black or printed dress. This Winter, the big trend is sparkles so why not try a sequin dress? They look amazing on everyone.
• Wear your best jewelry but keep it to the minimum: a long necklace could drag in the gravy and too many bangles will be in the way.
• Wear flat or low heeled shoes for comfort and safety. Choose pointed toe shoes if going for flats.
• Tie your hair up in a neat updo so that it is out of the way of the food you will cook and serve.
• Be prepared - have a spare outfit to change into if, heaven forbid, there is a disaster in the kitchen.
• Keep your makeup on the light side - heat from the oven or stove is not a heavy makeup's best friend.
• One last accessory you have to keep on at all times: your beautiful smile.

I wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to you! 🎄 🎄 🎄
A bientôt
Marie-Anne x