So, are you the holiday host or a guest?

incl. 6 looks to get you through holiday season

Dec 12, 2025

I have always loved hosting. The anticipation, the good food shop, picking out the tree, setting up home for the most heartwarming night when friends and family conversations fills the room. And it’s all beautiful until guests are buzzing the door and I’ve planned one appetizers too many.

Can’t put a finger on the exact moment when I’ve chosen to start imposing realistic expectations and plans on myself, but I did eventually. Nowadays, being present, rather than fussing over the extras nobody asked for, feels like the next stage of adulthood and self-love. And upon reflection, it’s a milestone I’m thankful to have hit this year.

When I spotted this gown-like minimal dress, I remembered the clear distinction between the guest and the host. With “protect your peace” in mind, I’ve curated 6 looks that will take the last minute decisions off your shoulders. Let’s break this down.

Hosting is all about creating atmosphere, and it peaks if your outfit reflects that welcoming and effortless charm (towering on mega high heels is off the table though; exception is being made to these toteme mules, because I tried them on and can attest, they’re super comfy).

Rohe dress; Toteme knit tee dress (size down); Table lamp by Martz; Juju Vera earrings (Lie studio pair would work amazing too); Dominique Ropion for Frederic Malle Portrait of a lady; Toteme mules; Dior ice cream bowl; Byredo Winter cabin candle; Lie Studio hair pin.

Louise Roe vase; Rohe silk top; Juju Vera necklace; Rohe silk trousers; Louise Roe champagne coupe; Diptyque pomander candle; The Row slippers.

Toteme blouse; Toteme skirt; Khaite dress; Loise Roe Vase; The Row kitten heel.

Guest, by contrast, is liberated from entertainment logistics. The only responsibility is to look striking, enjoy the feast, and have a good time. You can totally indulge in more technically demanding looks. Think fitted silhouettes, structured tailoring, or statement fabrics.