Palm Beach at the Holidays: Sun, Sand, and Style

The holiday season in Palm Beach is unlike any other. While much of the world embraces coats, scarves, and winter layers, Palm Beach welcomes December with sunshine, ocean breezes, and a relaxed yet polished sense of style. The palm-lined streets glow under soft winter light, festive gatherings spill outdoors, and fashion becomes an extension of the coastal lifestyle.

Dressing for Christmas and New Year’s in Palm Beach isn’t about warmth—it’s about effortless elegance. Lightweight fabrics, flowing silhouettes, and colors inspired by sea, sky, and sand define holiday dressing here.

Vagabond Apparel captures this philosophy perfectly, offering thoughtfully curated pieces that blend resort sophistication with bohemian ease. Flowing maxis, relaxed tunics, elevated sets, and versatile jumpsuits allow for seamless transitions throughout the holiday season while staying true to Palm Beach’s sun-drenched aesthetic.

Daytime Elegance: Coastal Chic for Christmas Brunch

Christmas mornings in Palm Beach unfold in golden light. Whether you’re heading to a waterfront brunch, strolling Worth Avenue, or gathering with friends, daytime holiday dressing should feel festive yet relaxed.

Silhouettes That Move with You

Flowing silhouettes are essential in warm climates. Maxi dresses, two-piece sets, and breathable cotton styles strike the ideal balance between comfort and elegance.

The Tiare Hawaii Bora Bora Set is a standout choice for daytime holiday gatherings. With its relaxed fit and breezy fabrication, this coordinated set delivers effortless polish while embracing a tropical, laid-back feel. The matching top and bottom create a cohesive look that feels intentional yet unfussy—perfect for sunlit celebrations.

For those drawn to dresses, the Phie Brushed Cotton Cut-Out Maxi offers a refined daytime option. Crafted from soft brushed cotton, it combines comfort with subtle design details. The cut-out accents add a modern edge while maintaining an airy, elegant silhouette that moves beautifully in the ocean breeze.

The Phie Brushed Cotton Halter Maxi is another daytime favorite. Its halter neckline provides a flattering frame, while the flowing skirt keeps the look light and breathable. This style transitions effortlessly from brunch to afternoon gatherings, offering structure without heaviness.

Color, Prints, and Fabrics

Daytime holiday colors in Palm Beach reflect the natural surroundings—soft neutrals, tropical tones, warm whites, and sun-washed hues. Prints remain relaxed and organic, complementing the environment rather than overpowering it.

Lightweight fabrics such as cotton and breathable blends are key. These materials keep you cool while lending a polished finish. Accessories should stay minimal: woven handbags, espadrilles, and delicate jewelry elevate the outfit without distracting from the silhouette.

The Finishing Touches

Hair and makeup during the day lean toward effortless sophistication. Loose waves, soft braids, or low ponytails echo the coastal vibe, while makeup stays natural with sun-kissed skin, neutral eyes, and a hint of glow.

Jewelry remains understated—layered gold chains, subtle hoops, or shell-inspired accents add personality without excess.

Afternoon to Sunset: Transitional Looks for Holiday Outings

As afternoon fades into evening, Palm Beach style shifts subtly. Transitional outfits should move easily from casual daytime activities to more refined sunset gatherings.

The Show Me Your Mumu Canyon Tunic is ideal for this moment of the day. Its relaxed silhouette and lightweight feel make it perfect for strolling, shopping, or casual meet-ups. Styled with sandals during the day and elevated with statement jewelry or wedges in the evening, it offers versatility without effort.

For a more elevated transitional option, the Phie Pleated Jumpsuit delivers both comfort and polish. Its flowing pleats create movement and elegance, while the structured design feels refined enough for cocktails or sunset dinners. A jumpsuit like this bridges day and night seamlessly.

Color palettes for transitional looks may deepen slightly—soft golds, muted blues, and warm earth tones reflect the changing light. Accessories can evolve as well: switch flats for low block heels or wedges, and trade oversized totes for medium clutches.

Evening Elegance: From Sunset to New Year’s Eve

Evenings in Palm Beach are when holiday style truly shines. Ocean reflections, candlelit dinners, and festive gatherings call for looks that feel elevated yet relaxed.

Key Silhouettes

Evening wear doesn’t require heavy fabrics or rigid tailoring. Instead, flow and balance define elegance.

The pairing of the Sole Nicole Pant with the Tulum Top creates an effortlessly chic evening ensemble. The wide-leg silhouette of the pants offers movement and sophistication, while the breezy top maintains comfort and a coastal sensibility. Together, they form a refined alternative to dresses, ideal for New Year’s Eve celebrations or elegant seaside dinners.

Evening Colors and Textures

Evening palettes draw inspiration from both nature and festivity—deep neutrals, soft metallics, and warm jewel tones. Lightweight fabrics with subtle texture catch the light beautifully without feeling overdone.

Accessories can introduce gentle glamour: metallic clutches, layered necklaces, or statement earrings elevate the look while staying true to Palm Beach’s understated elegance.

Hair and Makeup for Evening

Hair transitions from loose daytime styles to more polished looks—soft updos, sleek low buns, or defined waves. Makeup can deepen slightly with richer tones or subtle shimmer, maintaining a natural glow rather than dramatic contrast.

Accessories: The Secret to Palm Beach Holiday Style

Accessories are essential for transforming looks throughout the day:

  • Bags: Woven straw or raffia for daytime, metallic or leather clutches for evening
  • Shoes: Flat sandals or espadrilles by day, wedges or strappy heels at night
  • Jewelry: Layered gold necklaces, delicate bracelets, subtle hoops
  • Wraps & Shawls: Lightweight scarves or silk wraps for breezy evenings

The right accessories allow even the simplest outfit to feel holiday-ready.

Patterns, Prints, and Textures

Palm Beach holiday styling thrives on balance:

  • Tropical and organic prints for daytime ease
  • Soft pleats and cut-outs for visual interest
  • Lightweight textures that move and catch light
  • Thoughtful layering to elevate simple silhouettes

The goal is harmony—festive without excess, elegant without stiffness.

Layering, Adaptability, and Outfit Flexibility

Holiday wardrobes in Palm Beach work best when they’re versatile. Dresses and sets that transition from day to night, jumpsuits that require minimal styling, and accessories that adapt with the occasion reduce the need for outfit changes.

Lightweight shawls, kimonos, and scarves add warmth on breezy nights while enhancing visual interest. Modular accessories allow effortless transitions between events.

Building a Palm Beach Holiday Wardrobe

A cohesive Palm Beach holiday wardrobe includes:

  • Flowing maxis, relaxed sets, and elevated jumpsuits
  • Breathable, warm-weather fabrics
  • Coastal-inspired colors and organic prints
  • Layering pieces for adaptability
  • Subtle statement elements that reflect holiday spirit

Integrating Subtle Inspirations

Pieces like the Tiare Hawaii Bora Bora Set, Phie Brushed Cotton Maxis, Show Me Your Mumu Canyon Tunic, Phie Pleated Jumpsuit, and Sole Nicole Pant with Tulum Top embody the Palm Beach holiday aesthetic. Each combines movement, comfort, and refined design—perfect for celebrating the season in style.

Final Thoughts: Effortless Elegance for Christmas & New Year’s

The holidays in Palm Beach celebrate a lifestyle as much as a season. Fashion here is about fluid silhouettes, breathable fabrics, and a sense of ease that carries from morning gatherings to evening festivities.

With thoughtful styling, adaptable pieces, and a coastal mindset, holiday dressing becomes effortless and refined. Palm Beach proves that elegance doesn’t need layers—just intention, balance, and a touch of sunshine.

Elizabeth LeGore