Meet the Parents

The holiday season is about people getting together. Some of the people you’ll likely be getting together with are your future in-laws. Maybe they’re your current in-laws. Whatever stage of in-law we’re at, you’re gonna hang out, and let’s be sartorially savvy about it. I find it best to be comfortable when sharing a table with “the parents.” You definitely don’t want to be constantly squirming and adjusting your outfit—his mother will 100% think you’re super nervous even if you’re not. Also an uncomfortable look means that you “dressed up” for them in a way that wasn’t authentic to you. There’s a way to dress authentically, comfortably, and perfectly polished enough to receive parental points. I’ll show you.

Shop The Look ×

ANN TAYLOR

Flare Dress (also love this fit & flare dress and long sleeve dress)

ANN TAYLOR

Funnel Neck Coat (affordable alternatives HERE and HERE)

ANN TAYLOR

Cheetah Print Pumps (and a cute alternative HERE)

ANN TAYLOR

Pearlized Hair Clip Set (also love this round clip)

ALAIA

Square Sunglasses (affordable alternative HERE)

B-LOW THE BELT

Margaux Waist Belt (affordable alternative HERE)

The Vibe:

Styling Tips:

I love Ann Taylor for a put-together moment that’s also just easy, you know? The brand is known for effortless dresses and outerwear with beautiful shape and texture, and this pairing is no exception. I’m wearing a simple, winter white, three-quarter sleeve dress with a slightly flared skirt, and shoulder detail that screams effortless chic. I topped it off with the most gorgeous winter white peacoat, because let’s face it, MOMS LOVE IT WHEN THINGS MATCH. Either way, I plan on getting a ton of wear out of both the dress and coat this season—both together and separately. Mark my words.

ANN TAYLOR

Flare Dress (also love this fit & flare dress and long sleeve dress)

ANN TAYLOR

Funnel Neck Coat (affordable alternatives HERE and HERE)

ANN TAYLOR

Cheetah Print Pumps (and a cute alternative HERE)

You’ll want a comfortably elegant shoe, and while you can’t go wrong with a black or nude heel, I’ve opted for a kitten-heel leopard pump, also from Ann Taylor. A crazy-high heel would be too much for the fam, and also the last thing you want is to start walking like a crazy person due to immense pain. Not a good look. I’ve also opted to keep my hair out of my face (and soup) with pearl barrettes, but I specifically love this take on the trendy accessory because of the delicate size of the pearls. Oversized pearl barrettes are having a moment, but there’s something about this pair that feels much more timeless.