If you’re an introvert, the holiday season can feel daunting: Trying to impress your boss with witty banter at the company holiday party. Running from a cookie swap with your high school friend who got sucked into an MLM to a family dinner where everyone asks you why you’re not married. Elbowing your way through crowds while shopping for an air fryer.
One way to have all of the glitz and glamour the holiday season without navigating the chaos of the outside world is to host a few friends—the ones you truly feel comfortable with, no matter what—at home. People can wear their sparkliest holiday getups, and you can bring out your most special serving pieces. It’s fancy and festive but extremely low pressure. It could even be an excuse to shop for a few new holiday pieces that will make your table extra-special this year. Here’s everything you need to master a holiday concept we’re calling Dress Up, Eat In. By the way, any of these decor pieces below also make excellent gifts, even if you’re not planning on hosting this year.
Cozy lighting
I’m one of those people who’s allergic to the Big Light. That is, I hate overhead lighting and am constantly trying to curate the perfect vibe-y lighting setup with lots of lamps and candles in my apartment. The holiday season is the perfect time to double down on cozy, dim lighting that reflects off of sparkly decorations. This will help your home feel like a trendy bar or a snuggly French bistro—no going out required.
Fenomen Unscented Block Candle, Set of 5
AubinKenny Taper Candles (9 Pack)
Serving plates and bowls
I desperately want to own holiday specific dishware like my mom had in our house growing up, but I don’t want to make the space to store them for the 10–11 months a year I won’t use them. If you relate to my problem (or even if you don’t), I’ve included some festive options that you’ll also get use out of all year—including a braiser and some nesting bowls that work both for cooking and serving your cozy holiday meal.
Monique Lhuillier Nell Salad Plates
Silkesträd Decorative Bowl
Elegance Store Round Metal Serving Tray
Made In Mise en Place Bowls
Barski European Crystal Large Punch Bowl
Sézane x Maison Roussot Little Hearts Bowl
Staub Ceramics Universal Bowl Set, 6.5″, Cherry
Made In Entrée Bowls, 4-Pack
Le Creuset Enameled Cast Iron Everyday Braiser Pan, 3-Quart
Table linens
You may not be able to refresh bigger ticket items before the holidays, like your appliances or your dining room table, but a new tablecloth or set of fun napkins go a long way to making your space feel fresh. Again, this is a nice light-touch way to feel festive, and the options below will still work year round.
Couleur Nature Jardin Red & Green Tablecloth
Marguerita Mergentime x Food52 Garland Napkins, Set of 4
Holiday decor
Of course, you’ve got to decorate with a few actual holiday decorations. Hang a few of the shiny globes from Ikea below and watch them reflect the light from your twinkly holiday lights. (Plus, they’ll be just as fitting for a New Year’s party.) Plus, these folding paper decorations feel modern and classic at the same time.
Fröjda Hanging Decoration
Vinterfint Christmas Tree Decoration
Vinterfint Santa Hat Decoration
Other accessories
Unless you can be absolutely certain that your friends Respect Wood, it’s a good idea to make coasters readily available at your holiday functions. These shiny gold ones feel, once again, festive but not holiday specific. A few more fun accessories you could add to your party: a funky apron and cozy slippers for you and your guests.
L.L. Bean Venetian Slippers