Whether you like to dress up or keep it casual, the holidays can be the best time of the year. There are fashion themes that run throughout December (lipstick reds, deep hues, and anything knit) that work for men and women alike. Some couples even decide to match. The choice must be made between you and your partner, taking into consideration the type of celebration you will be attending. Matching can be a sign of just how well you two are in sync. 

Let's be honest; matching couples get a bad rep. It is pretty easy to run the risk of being "that couple"...the one wearing literally the exact same outfit, never breaking each others' gaze, kissing while guests are trying to hold a conversation. There are, however, ways to match and look 100% chic without bleeding into ball-and-chain or elementary school science teacher territory.

Comfy or fancy, common colors that trend for the winter holidays tend to be white, matching the cold atmosphere, red for the Christmas tree lights, and, of course, the classic black. Don’t be too shy to color coordinate!

Holiday Sweater (Pinterest @Julie Stafford)

The holidays are the best time to keep warm while looking stylish. Holiday-themed sweaters are always appropriate, even if you’re not the type of person who usually approves of them. This is the one time of the year that you can get away with it. And style is all about getting away with things. 

Sweaters are just about the most unisex and versatile article of clothing, so it is easy to match your significant other, while you both decide last minute if you are staying in or going out. Find sweaters that have Santa's white beard outlined. Snowflakes and deer are also common holiday icons. Bring on the patterns and fluff! 

Couple does fancy matching right (Pinterest @Bizarre FashionStore)

For the ladies, velvety or lace dresses are always good picks for keeping up with holiday fashion.

Wearing a long-sleeved white dress, or a red or black velvet dress keeps you feeling warm while looking hot. It’s cold out there, so don’t show too much skin.

Sequins and glitter are always good for evening outings between Christmas Eve and the new year. Girls can wear gold sequined/glittered skirts, while men can sport a gold bowtie.

If an all-sequin dress isn't your style, find a colored skirt that has stripes of sequins. Pair the skirt with a formal top and heels and you're set.

Though formal clothing is often pretty gender-cliche, the look can be gender-neutral as well. A blazer and scarf look good on everyone, and are a more subdued method of matching.

Casual Cute (Pinterest @Madison Iskra)

Not all holiday outfits need to be over-the-top fancy. If high heels and three types of spanx aren't your idea of a fun night, stick to shirts paired with jeans or colorful leggings.

Though the weather outside is frightful, a skirt can work when paired with a warm, cozy cardigan.

For men, simple winter sweaters with denim of blue, black, and even deep teal work for keeping it simple, casual, and comfortable.

Both men and women can wear a more dressy top in a similar fabric, paired with denim. For men, bowties worn under sweaters/sweater vests also work with jeans.

Reach Staff Member Tanya Mardirossian here.