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Local stylist Katharine Murphy of Pretty and Well walks us through this season’s holiday style trends.

The holidays are filled with opportunities to celebrate with friends, family, and coworkers — from intimate gatherings to glitzy galas, and everything in between. Finding that look that makes you feel your best will help make the season bright. So, we asked stylist Katharine Murphy of Pretty and Well to guide us through this year’s holiday fashion trends with a tour through Prudential Center. Let’s take a look at what she found.

From left to right, top: Aritzia, Saks Fifth Avenue, Aritzia

From left to right, bottom: Saks Fifth Avenue, Aritzia, Aritzia

Holiday style tips from stylist Katharine Murphy

Prudential Center: How does holiday fashion differ from other times of the year? 

Katharine Murphy: More glitz, more glam, embellishments, anything goes! 

PC: What colors are hot this season? Fabrics? 

KM: The black dress lives on! I’m obsessed with navy and deep blue, especially with a black bag or  shoes. Navy velvet; hot pink (which has been big all 2022!), silver fabrics: silk, satin, velvet, leather, and mesh. 

PC: Describe the 2022 holiday fashion trends in three words. 

KM: Leather, minis, and mesh! 

PC: Describe the perfect men’s outfit for an at-home holiday party. 

KM: Nice boots, well-fitting jeans, and a sweater or button down. And, possibly a dinner jacket. 

PC: Describe the perfect women’s outfit for an at-home holiday party. 

KM: Mini skirts are so in this season, and they’re perfect for a holiday gathering at someone’s home. Wear one with a sweater or blouse, tights, and boots or platform pumps. Also slip skirts, knit or sweater dresses, black trousers and a fun top, and good denim and a sequin top or blazer. 

PC: Describe the perfect men’s outfit for a more formal holiday party. 

KM: I love a waistcoat for men right now. Dinner jacket. No tie. He can get away with good jeans these days or more traditional trousers. 

PC: Describe the perfect women’s outfit for a more formal holiday party. 

KM: I suggest a mini dress, tights, platform pumps, and a clutch. Don’t feel like you have to have a big pop of color unless you want to —  red nails or a fun lip can do the trick. Metallic or sparkly bag. Mesh cutouts are really fun right now, as they add interest but still a minimal/classy look for all ages. 

PC: Outside of the holiday season, what do you recommend for someone looking to build their wardrobe long term? 

KM: Focus on the basics: good denim, black denim, a white button down, and a good cardigan or blazer. Focus on natural materials that are built to last, like cotton and linen. Lastly, focus on fit. Well-fitting clothes will always be in style, and tailoring can go a long way. 

PC: What are some timeless looks that will always be in style? 

KM: Denim and a white top or monochromatic looks (especially black on black). 

PC: What do you recommend focusing on with a limited budget? 

KM: Denim. Versatile, timeless pieces that can be mixed and matched. Clothing first — you can get away with less expensive alternatives for shoes, bags and jewelry. 

PC: How do you know if an outfit is the right look for you? 

KM: Fit is EVERYTHING. Also, I always check a client’s face when they send me a pic in an outfit or when they are trying something on —  it tells me how they feel in a look. You have to feel amazing for it to look amazing. 

PC: How do you inspire someone to take more fashion risks and be more playful when it comes to finding their style?

KM: I always try to meet someone where they are — finding exactly what she or he is asking for — then throw in some other options that stretch the style a bit. I shoot for 80/20. I am doing this so much with denim right now and encouraging my clients to take that bold first step away from the skinny jean, throwing in a straight leg or kick flare here and there.

PC: What accessories are most important when putting together an outfit? 

KM: My personal style is really minimal when it comes to accessories. I love a gold huggie earring, diamond studs, understated bag, and classic pumps or boots. If your outfit is more minimal or understated though, a fun shoe or clutch is the perfect fun touch. 

PC: Tell us about trends in shoes, bags, and all the accessories in between! 

KM: Gold huggie earrings. Metallics for bags. High boots are back. Pumps with embellishment. 

PC: How do you describe your own style? 

KM: My style is minimal but always with a little “something pretty.”

PC: Is there anything else you’d like to share about styling? 

KM: Yes! I’m a Newburyport-based personal stylist who works locally and virtually. I source and style exclusive looks for those looking to elevate their wardrobe, feel confident and well-fitted for events such as weddings, work, or overall style. I also bring a business owner’s vision to life for branding and website photoshoots. You can find me and my work at Pretty and Well. 

Thank you to Katharine for walking us through what’s trending in holiday style this year. We look forward to celebrating the holiday season with all of our Prudential Center visitors!