Confused about what to wear for your “Christmas Vacation”? Whether you’re planning a chic holiday party look or a hilarious movie-themed costume, finding the right outfit can feel overwhelming. You need inspiration that’s stylish, fun, and easy to put together.
A “Christmas Vacation Outfit” can mean two distinct things: 1) Stylish, festive attire for holiday parties and family gatherings, or 2) Funny costumes inspired by characters from the classic movie National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation. This guide covers both, giving you genius ideas for any holiday event on your calendar.
Confused by “Christmas Vacation” Outfits? You’re in the Right Place!
You typed “what to wear on christmas vacation” into a search bar, and now you’re seeing a mix of sparkly dresses and pictures of Clark Griswold in a hockey jersey. It can be confusing! The good news is, you’ve found the one guide designed to solve this exact problem.
The term “Christmas Vacation Outfit” can mean two things: 1) Festive, stylish outfits to wear during the holiday season for parties and gatherings. 2) Funny costumes inspired by characters from the movie National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation. This guide covers both to help you find the perfect look. We’ll start with chic holiday outfits and then dive into the hilarious movie costumes.
9 Genius Christmas Vacation Outfits From Festive To Funny for 2025
1. The Chic Velvet Jumpsuit (For Holiday Parties)
Pin this elegant holiday look to your ‘Style’ board!
This is the perfect holiday party outfit if you don’t like dresses. A velvet jumpsuit is a modern, comfortable, and incredibly chic alternative that works for almost any semi-formal or formal event. It’s one piece, which makes getting ready a breeze.
Outfit Pieces:
- Velvet Jumpsuit: Look for one in a rich jewel tone like emerald, ruby, or sapphire with a flattering wide-leg or tailored silhouette.
- Metallic Heels: Simple, single-strap heels in gold or silver.
- Minimalist Clutch: A structured clutch in a complementary metallic shade.
- Statement Earrings: Delicate but sparkly drop earrings.
Styling Tips:
- Choose the Right Fit: Ensure the jumpsuit is tailored correctly—not too tight and the hem just grazes the top of your shoes.
- Define Your Waist: If the jumpsuit isn’t already fitted, add a thin metallic belt to accentuate your waistline.
- Elegant Updo: Style your hair in a chic low bun or a sleek ponytail to show off the neckline and your earrings.
- Complementary Outerwear: Drape a classic black or camel-colored wool coat over your shoulders for a sophisticated entrance.
Pro-Tip: Before the event, sit down in the jumpsuit to ensure it’s comfortable and doesn’t pull or ride up. Comfort is key for enjoying a long party!
2. The Cozy-Luxe Sweater Look (For Casual Gatherings)
Save this perfect casual Christmas outfit idea!
For a casual Christmas dinner, a cookie exchange with friends, or a cozy evening at home, you want an outfit that is comfortable, warm, and still feels festive. This look is the perfect solution, combining a high-quality sweater with polished basics.
Outfit Pieces:
- High-Quality Knit Sweater: Invest in a cashmere or merino wool sweater in a classic holiday color like red, forest green, or winter white.
- Dark-Wash Jeans: A well-fitting pair of skinny or straight-leg jeans provides a polished base.
- Stylish Ankle Boots: Choose leather or suede boots with a low block heel for comfort and style.
- Delicate Layered Necklaces: Simple gold or silver necklaces add a touch of polish.
Styling Tips:
- Try a French Tuck: Partially tucking the front of the sweater into your jeans defines your waist and keeps the look from appearing sloppy.
- Balance Proportions: If your sweater is oversized, keep your bottom half slim with skinny jeans. If your sweater is more fitted, you can pair it with wider-leg trousers.
- Add a Festive Touch: A plaid scarf or a touch of red lipstick can instantly elevate the look and make it more festive.
- Roll Your Cuffs: Slightly rolling the cuff of your jeans to show a bit of ankle can make the outfit feel more intentional and stylish.
Pro-Tip: A “festive casual” dress code is perfect for this look. It’s the ideal blend of relaxed comfort and holiday cheer.
3. The Glam Sequin Skirt Outfit (For a Festive Night Out)
Pin this sparkly holiday outfit inspiration!
Nothing says “party” like sequins. The key to making a sequin skirt look modern and chic is to balance its sparkle with something understated and cozy. This high/low combination is perfect for a festive night out or even a New Year’s Eve party.
Outfit Pieces:
- Sequin Skirt: A pencil or A-line skirt in gold, silver, or black sequins is a versatile holiday staple.
- Simple Knit Top: A fine-knit sweater in a neutral color like cream, black, or grey. A simple silk camisole also works well.
- Understated Heels: Classic black or nude pumps or single-strap heels.
- Simple Clutch: A non-sparkly clutch in a solid color like black leather.
Styling Tips:
- Let the Skirt Shine: The key to styling sequins is to make the sparkly piece the star. Keep the rest of your outfit simple and neutral.
- Play with Textures: Pairing the glam sequins with a soft, cozy texture like a cashmere or merino wool sweater creates a chic high/low contrast.
- Dress it Down Slightly: Wearing a cozy sweater with a sequin skirt makes the look feel modern and effortless, rather than like a stuffy cocktail outfit.
- Minimal Jewelry: Avoid competing with the sparkle. A pair of simple stud earrings is all you need.
Lesson Learned: Don’t save your sequins just for New Year’s Eve! This look is perfect for any festive cocktail party or a celebratory holiday dinner.
4. The Dapper Men’s Festive Blazer (A Modern Classic)
A great holiday look for him! Pin this for inspiration.
For men, a festive blazer is the easiest way to look sharp and celebratory without wearing a full suit or a novelty sweater. It’s a versatile piece that can be dressed up for a corporate holiday party or dressed down for a family dinner.
Outfit Pieces:
- Festive Blazer: A well-tailored blazer in a holiday fabric like velvet or a subtle tartan/plaid print. Colors like burgundy, forest green, or navy are excellent choices.
- Crisp Dress Shirt: A classic white or light blue button-down shirt.
- Tailored Trousers: Charcoal gray or black wool trousers. Dark-wash, slim-fit jeans can also work for a more casual event.
- Leather Dress Shoes: Polished brown or black oxfords or loafers.
Styling Tips:
- Focus on Fit: The most important part of this look is the fit of the blazer. It should be snug at the shoulders and button comfortably without pulling.
- Keep it Simple: The blazer is the statement piece. Keep the shirt, pants, and shoes classic and simple to let it stand out.
- No Tie Needed: For most holiday parties, you can skip the tie for a more modern and relaxed (but still sharp) look.
- Add a Pocket Square: A silk pocket square in a complementary color can add an extra touch of personality and polish.
Pro-Tip: This look perfectly nails the “business festive” or “smart casual” dress code often requested for corporate holiday events.
5. The Iconic Clark Griswold (Frustrated Santa Look)
The perfect funny Christmas costume! Pin this idea!
Now that you have your festive holiday outfits planned, let’s switch gears to the other kind of “Christmas Vacation” outfit. If you’re heading to a movie-themed party, dressing as the patriarch of the Griswold family is a guaranteed hit. This look is comfortable, instantly recognizable, and full of holiday spirit—even if it’s slightly manic.
Costume Pieces Needed:
- Griswold Hockey Jersey: A red Chicago Blackhawks jersey with “Griswold” and “00” on the back is the essential piece. Many retailers sell replicas specifically for this costume.
- Santa Hat: A standard, slightly floppy Santa hat.
- Light-Wash Jeans: A pair of classic, slightly dated “dad jeans” from the late 80s/early 90s.
- White Sneakers: Simple, clean white sneakers.
- Prop Moose Mug: The iconic glass moose mug for eggnog. This is a crucial prop!
How to Create the Look:
- Get the Jersey: This is the one piece you’ll likely need to buy. It’s instantly recognizable and makes the costume.
- Perfect the Attitude: The key to this costume is the expression. Practice a look of cheerful frustration or manic holiday spirit in the mirror.
- Accessorize Correctly: Don’t forget the moose mug! Carry it around all night. You can even fill it with eggnog (or a non-alcoholic version).
- Style Your Hair: A slightly feathered, classic dad haircut from the 80s completes the look. Use a bit of hairspray for authenticity.
Pro-Tip: This costume is great because it’s comfortable and easy to wear all night. You’re basically in a jersey and jeans!
6. The Hilarious Cousin Eddie (Bathrobe & Trapper Hat)
Save this easy and funny DIY costume idea!
For maximum laughs with minimum effort, there is no better choice than Cousin Eddie. This DIY costume is cheap, easy to assemble from thrift store finds, and will make you the star of any Christmas Vacation themed party.
Costume Pieces Needed:
- Short White Bathrobe: The key is that it’s thin and a bit too short. A cheap, waffle-knit spa robe works perfectly.
- Trapper Hat (Ushanka): A faux-fur trapper hat with ear flaps is essential.
- Dark Socks & Black Plastic-Looking Dress Shoes: The combination is famously jarring.
- Cigar: A prop cigar (unlit, of course).
- Optional Prop: A short piece of black corrugated drain pipe to act as the “sewer hose.”
How to Create the Look:
- Find a Cheap Robe: Thrift stores or discount stores are perfect for finding the right kind of thin, cheap-looking bathrobe.
- Secure the Hat: You can find trapper hats easily online or at army surplus stores during the winter.
- Commit to the Footwear: The dark socks pulled up high with the shiny black dress shoes is a critical detail. Don’t wear slippers!
- Practice the Catchphrase: Perfect your delivery of “Sh*tter was full!” for maximum comedic effect throughout the party.
Lesson Learned: This costume is all about the props and the confident, clueless attitude. The less the pieces seem to go together, the better.
7. The Elegant Ellen Griswold (Classic ’80s Mom Style)
Pin this chic and subtle movie costume idea!
If you want to participate in the movie theme but prefer a more understated and stylish look, dressing as Ellen Griswold is the perfect choice. Her classic, elegant 80s mom style is both recognizable to fans and chic enough to stand on its own.
Costume Pieces Needed:
- White High-Neck Blouse: Look for a blouse with a ruffled or high collar and slightly puffy or voluminous sleeves.
- High-Waisted Pleated Trousers: Beige, camel, or grey pleated trousers are the epitome of late-’80s chic mom style.
- Thin Leather Belt: A simple belt to cinch the trousers at the waist.
- Simple Gold Jewelry: Small gold hoop earrings and a classic watch.
- Voluminous Hair: This is key! Think feathered bangs and lots of volume at the crown.
How to Create the Look:
- Raid a Thrift Store: Thrift stores are a goldmine for 1980s blouses and pleated “mom pants.”
- Focus on the Silhouette: The look is all about the high waist and the tucked-in, billowy blouse.
- Get the Hair Right: Use a round brush while blow-drying to create volume and feathering. A little hairspray will help hold the style.
- Master the Expression: Practice a patient, loving, yet slightly exasperated smile. You’re the calm center of the Griswold storm.
Pro-Tip: This is a fantastic “if you know, you know” costume. It’s perfectly wearable and stylish on its own, but true fans of the movie will recognize it instantly.
8. The Todd & Margo Chester (Yuppie Couple’s Costume)
The perfect funny couple’s costume idea! Pin it!
Looking for a hilarious and easy couples costume? The Griswolds’ yuppie neighbors, Todd and Margo, are a fantastic choice. Their sleek, judgmental, and perfectly coordinated 80s aesthetic is easy to replicate and fun to act out.
Costume Pieces Needed:
- Matching Black Turtlenecks: The quintessential 80s yuppie uniform.
- (Alternatively) Matching Velour Tracksuits: For their more “relaxed” look. Silver or grey is ideal.
- For Margo: Large, chunky gold earrings and perfectly coiffed, hairsprayed hair.
- For Todd: A look of perpetual annoyance and a high-end silver watch.
- Prop: A broken stereo or a piece of ice from the “ice missile” incident.
How to Create the Look:
- Coordinate Your Base: Decide together whether you’re doing the sleek turtleneck look or the matching tracksuit look.
- Accessorize for the Era: Margo’s look is defined by her large gold earrings and flawless makeup.
- Adopt the Attitude: This costume is 90% attitude. Practice looking disdainfully at everything. Stand with perfect posture.
- Rehearse a Line: Learn a line like “Why is the carpet all wet, Todd?” / “I don’t know, Margo!” and use it when you enter a room.
Lesson Learned: This is one of the easiest couple’s costumes to pull off, as most people already have black turtlenecks. It’s all about the performance!
9. The DIY Ugly Christmas Sweater (A Festive Classic)
Save this fun DIY project for your next holiday party!
No holiday outfit list would be complete without the iconic ugly Christmas sweater. While you can buy one, making your own is more fun, creative, and guarantees you’ll have a one-of-a-kind masterpiece. It’s the perfect last-minute christmas outfit for a tacky sweater party.
Materials Needed:
- A Plain Sweater: A basic crewneck sweater in red, green, or black from a craft store or thrift store.
- Hot Glue Gun & Glue Sticks: This will be your primary tool.
- Assorted Craft Supplies: Tinsel garland, pom-poms, jingle bells, felt sheets, googly eyes, mini ornaments, and bows.
- Battery-Powered LED Fairy Lights: A small string of lights with a concealable battery pack.
Step-by-Step Directions:
- Plan Your Design: Lay the sweater flat and arrange your craft supplies to create a scene. A classic is a reindeer with a red pom-pom nose or a Christmas tree made of tinsel.
- Start Gluing: Begin by hot-gluing the largest elements of your design first, like felt shapes or tinsel garland.
- Add 3D Elements: Glue on pom-poms, jingle bells, and small ornaments to add dimension and texture. Be generous! More is more.
- Incorporate Lights: Carefully weave the string of LED lights through your design, securing the wire with small dabs of hot glue. Tuck the battery pack into an inside pocket or glue a small felt pocket for it on the inside hem.
Pro-Tip: Use fabric safety pins to attach heavier items like larger ornaments or the light battery pack for extra security.
Key Takeaways: Your Quick Guide to Christmas Vacation Outfits
- Clarify the Event: The most important step is knowing your event’s dress code. Is it a “festive casual” dinner or a “Christmas Vacation movie theme” party?
- Festive Outfits = Texture & Color: For general holiday parties, focus on rich textures like velvet, cashmere, and sequins in classic festive colors.
- Movie Costumes = Key Props: For a movie-themed costume, the recognizable props (like Clark’s moose mug or Eddie’s trapper hat) are more important than a perfect outfit.
- When in Doubt, Elevate the Basics: A great sweater with nice jeans or a classic black dress with sparkly accessories can work for almost any semi-casual holiday event.
- Comfort is Chic: Don’t suffer in uncomfortable shoes or clothes. Choosing stylish yet comfortable options will allow you to enjoy the festivities more.
People Also Ask About Christmas Vacation Outfits
What is “festive casual” attire for a holiday party?
Festive casual is a dress code that blends comfortable, everyday clothes with a touch of holiday spirit. Think dark-wash jeans paired with a beautiful red sweater, a simple dress with a plaid scarf, or tailored trousers with a top that has some sparkle. It’s about being relaxed but making a clear effort to be celebratory.
What is the easiest and most recognizable “Christmas Vacation” costume?
The easiest and most iconic costume is by far Cousin Eddie. All you truly need is a short white bathrobe, a furry trapper hat, dark socks with black dress shoes, and a cigar prop. It’s instantly recognizable, requires minimal effort, and is guaranteed to be a hit at any themed party.
Can you wear black to a Christmas party?
Yes, wearing black to a Christmas party is very chic and absolutely appropriate. To make it feel more festive, choose a black piece in a holiday texture like velvet, lace, or sequins. You can also add pops of color with red heels, a green clutch, or sparkly gold jewelry.
What’s a good last-minute holiday outfit idea?
A great last-minute option is to focus on accessories. Start with a simple base you already own, like a black sweater and black pants. Then, add a statement piece like a large sparkly necklace, festive plaid scarf, bold red lipstick, and some metallic shoes. This instantly transforms a basic outfit into a party-ready look.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re aiming for chic and elegant or hilariously iconic, the perfect Christmas vacation outfit is all about matching your look to the spirit of the event. We hope this guide has given you the inspiration you need to feel confident, festive, and ready to make some wonderful holiday memories.
Now we’d love to hear from you! What’s the best Christmas vacation outfit—festive or funny—that you’ve ever worn? Share your ideas in the comments below.
Last update on 2025-12-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
