On today, our nation holiday of consumerism, it seemed perfectly fitting to share some gorgeous shopping inspiration for a designer wedding or holiday party dress! Rent The Runway asked me to put together some creative inspiration featuring their high-fashion rental gowns, and I could not think of a more perfect time. ‘Tis the season to be fabulous, after all, and renting a spectacular dress for the next holiday soirée is the best way to look smashing and keep your gift budget intact!

Snow Queen

That’s right, white well after Labor Day – it’s absolutely on point for winter! Whether you go for crisp lines or a hint of shimmer, a well-chosen white gown can register bridal or winter royalty. Strike a subtle note with the frosty glitter of diamonds – all eyes will be on you anyway.

Snow Queen - Winter White Designer Wedding and Holiday Style from Rent the Runway!

L-R – DSquared | Erin Fetherston | Raoul

PHOTO CREDITS –

Candlelit Table – Photography by Megan Pomeroy Photography via 100 Layer Cake | Winter Bride with Crown – Photography by Summer Street Photography via Wedding Sparrow | Snowy Mantel Ceremony – Photography by Gracie Blue Photography with Laura Leslie Photography via Style Me Pretty | Winter Bouquet – Photography by Peaches and Mint | Snowy Bride and Groom -Photography by Rebecca Hollis Photography via Style Me Pretty | Frosted Wedding Cake – Photography by When He Found Her via Wedding Sparrow

Holiday Red

I personally think every occasion calls for a fabulous red dress, but never is that more true than during the holidays! This rich, festive red hue is a gorgeous way to make a statement at a chic holiday soirée. A clean silhouette allows the eye-catching color to take center stage. Black strappy sandals or glittering metallic heels paired with chandelier earrings are the perfect finishing touches.

L-R – Carmen Marc Valvo | Monique Lhuillier | Raoul

PHOTO CREDITS –

Red Accented Wedding Cake -Photography by Greer G Photography via Elizabeth Anne Designs | Red Lips – Photography by Jemma Keech Photography | Pomegranate Cocktail via Clara Persis | Red Striped Napkin – Photography by Brklyn View Photography via Style Me Pretty | Red Bouquet – Photography by Bradley James Photography via Hey Gorgeous | Red Floral Invitations – Photography by Megan Pomeroy Photography via Style Me Pretty

Black Tie

Other than wedding season, the holidays are the best excuse to wear formal attire! Indulge in a gala-worthy gown for the holidays, with show-stopping detailing and understated, elegant accessories.

L-R – Catherine Deane | Carmen Marc Valvo | Catherine Deane

PHOTO CREDITS –

Elegant Bridal Hairstyle -Photography by Jen Huang via 100 Layer Cake | Gold Vintage Tray – Photography by Rylee Hitchner Photography via Once Wed | Glam Wedding Jewelry – Photography by Genevieve Renee Photographie via Southern Weddings | Gold Lace Trimmed Bouquet – Photography by Mango Studios via Ruffled | Black and Gold Place Setting – Photography by Marvelous Things Photography via Ruffled | Elegant Gold Wedding Cake Table – Photography by KT Merry via Style Me Pretty

Jewel Tones

I’ve made no secret of my love for rich color and winter is the perfect time to indulge that passion! Emerald green, midnight blue, berry – bring them on! Classic cocktail silhouettes are reinvigorated with a dose of vivid color, just begging for high-contrast accessories in winter white or subtle metallic.

L-R – Kate Spade | Raoul | Trina Turk

PHOTO CREDITS –

Vintage Velvet Footstool -Photography by Taylor Lord via Ruffled | Ruby Peony Bouquet – Photography by Brittany Mahood Photography | Blue Calligraphy Place Setting – Photography by Naomi Chokr Photography via Occasions | Coral Centerpieces – Photography by Two Pair Photography via Wedding Chicks | Gemstone Earrings – Photography by Ashley Kelemen Photography | Emerald Ring – Photography by Awake Photography via Wedding Chicks

Mixed Metallics

I can’t think of a time of year that gold, silver, copper, and bronze aren’t welcome, but this is truly their time to shine! Foiled, sequined, or laméd (sure, that’s a word) cocktail dresses are a gorgeous way to ring in the New Year or toast a new engagement. Add a splash of color with brightly colored heels and statement jewelry – holiday red, mulled wine, or jewel tones add just the right festive touch.

L-R – Badgely Mischka | Temperley London | Lela Rose

PHOTO CREDITS –

Silver Brushed Wedding Cake – Photography by Clary Pfeiffer Photography via Style Me Pretty | Metallic Wedding Invitations – Photography by Philip Ficks Photography via The Knot | Glam Gold Shoes – Photography by Khaki Bedford Photography via Style Me Pretty | Bouquet and Vintage Gold Chair – Photography by Jose Villa via Once Wed | Metallic Gold Clutch – Photography by Lisa Hessel Photography via Style Me Pretty

Mulled Wine

I’ve always had a weakness for the luxury of plum, burgundy, and bordeaux, and these warmly elegant hues are ideal for winter. Equally luxurious accessories in antique gold or bronze make for a perfectly regal ensemble!

L-R – Raoul | Trina Turk | Nicole Miller

PHOTO CREDITS –

Burgundy Bouquet – Photography by Jen Huang via Style Me Pretty | Cinnamon Stick Cocktails – Photography by Melanie Duerkopp via Green Wedding Shoes | Purple Ice Cream Cake via Helena Ljunggren | Cinnamon and Balsam Place Setting via The Vintage House | Luxe Table Decor – Photography by One Summer Day via Elizabeth Anne Designs | Burgundy Velvet Dress – Photography by Ciara Richardson via Bridal Musings