Elevate Your Holiday Style: Designer Tips for Incorporating Red into Your Festive Wardrobe |
Nothing says festive quite like a pop of red — bold enough to feel celebratory, subtle enough to stay chic. Whether you’re dressing for a cosy Christmas lunch, a glam night out or a formal soirée, designers share easy ways to weave the season’s most loved colour into your look. “Red brings warmth, confidence and a little festive magic without trying too hard. Holiday dressing should feel joyful, and red helps you tap into that feeling effortlessly,” says Lead Designer at XYXX, Harshad Panchal.
Style Tip followed by Surina Pujari: A deep-crimson blouse
Let one red element take the leadDesigner Nanki Maggo Papneja, Co-Founder & Creative Director, Limerick, suggests using red deliberately, not decoratively. She says, “Start with a soft, neutral base — champagne, ecru or gold — and let one red detail shine. The contrast feels far more refined than going head-to-toe.”What to try:A deep-crimson blouseSculptural red enamel earringsA red-print silk scarf or slim beltThe classic matte red lip — always festive, always flawless
Style Tip followed by Priyanka Ramsay: The classic matte red lips
Reveal, layer or flash red in unexpected places“Christmas is the perfect excuse to lean into festive glamour, and nothing lifts a look faster than a well-placed dash of red. You don’t always have to wear red — sometimes you can layer or reveal it. It’s about keeping it effortless yet intentional — a whisper of cheer, not a shout,” says designer Maheka Mirpuri.
Style Tip followed by Monica Dsouza: A red bralette under a sheer shirt
What to try:A red bralette under a sheer shirtA jacket with red silk lining peeking throughA swipe of red lipstick or red-soled heelsChoose the right tone“Red is a festive essential and can easily look tacky,” warns designer Anikate Satam of Pinkporcupines. “The trick is to pick sophisticated tones like deep marlot, rich burgundy or oxblood.”What to try:Tone-on-tone layering: Mix similar burgundy shades in different textures — think a chunky cable-knit sweater over a cascading sequin pencil skirtRed tartan: Classic yet rebellious. Style a black turtleneck with a 1950s-inspired full tartan skirt for vintage charmRed lace sari: Delicate lace in red with minimalist jewellery? Festive perfection
Style Tip followed by Vaishali Jain: Add a singular red accent through jewellery
Add a singular red accent through jewelleryJewellery designer Janvi Sachdeva believes red can shine even in the smallest doses. “Think of red not just as a colour, but as a festive accent. A single gemstone ring or drop earrings against black, white or cream instantly elevates the look,” says Janvi.Ace the festive look:Wear a deep red stoleOpt for socks with texture or patternsAnchor the look with one standout red layer — a relaxed shacket or easy outerwear piece
Style Tip followed by Amaan
For Men: Make Red an Intentional Accent, Not an AfterthoughtHead of Design at Rare Rabbit, Arun Kumar recommends weaving red into menswear with purpose. “Contrast keeps red confident yet controlled,” he says.For formal looks:Swap the usual tie for a textured burgundy knit tie—a refined twist on a charcoal suit.For modern casual:Let a single red piece—like a knit polo or overshirt—shine against crisp white, navy or black.Heels to the rescueOorja & Vatsala, Co- founders, Shop Mauve, say, “For Christmas styling, think subtle pops of red. A tailored blazer, a sleek top layered under a neutral co-ord, or even red heels with a monochrome look can instantly add warmth and a festive touch without overwhelming the outfit.”Wear red through jewellery Mehul Jain, Founder, Everbrite Jewellery, says, “Nothing says Christmas like red, and the most refined way to wear it is through jewellery. A diamond ring paired with a tennis bracelet delivers effortless, unisex elegance that works across dress codes and instantly elevates any look. A statement diamond ring with a ruby or garnet accent adds subtle shimmer without trying too hard. It sharpens a black tux or off-shoulder dress and brings a perfect pop of colour to winter staples like knits, denim, and boots. Worn solo or stacked, one small red stone glows under festive lights and becomes a quiet conversation piece. A classic tennis bracelet with red accents ties everything together, softening tailoring, elevating eveningwear, and lifting even a white shirt and jeans. Timeless, photogenic, and versatile, these pieces add Christmas cheer without committing to red—and stay relevant long after the holidays.”Use red as an accent to elevate festive dressingAlayna Zaid, Founder, Siorai, says, “Red holds a special place in my personal style, and I love using it as an accent to elevate festive dressing. When adding red to any outfit- casual, formal, or party–I believe in letting it shine as a highlight. A red accent through a tailored piece, a bold lip, a structured bag or even delicate embroidery can instantly bring warmth and festivity without overwhelming the look. It’s all about thoughtful touches that make the colour feel intentional and timeless.
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