Cozy Holiday Style Inspiration 2025
Home for the holidays.
Photography by Lisa Staff
Styled by Bailey Gilliam
For a few short months each year, the Lowcountry slips into its version of winter: cool enough for fuzzy socks and soft sweaters, yet mild enough for evening walks along the water. December through February, locals finally get to reach for jackets, pants and long sleeves without breaking a sweat. It’s the perfect time to pull out those favorite layers, such as cozy cardigans, sport coats, button-downs, fleece pullovers and tailored coats that feel just right on crisp nights by the fire.
Season’s sparkle
Dressed for a festive night out on the town, Gary and Bridget Colbert showcase effortless Lowcountry holiday style inside their beautifully remodeled condo at The Charles in Hilton Head Plantation. Bridget shines in a rich blue sweater from Jean-Pierre Kliffa, its soft shimmer catching the light and adding a touch of seasonal sparkle. She pairs it with sleek gray pants, silver jewelry and patterned flats that give her look a polished yet playful finish. Gary keeps things classic in a tan shacket from John Bayley Clothier, layered over a plaid button-down woven with blue and orange hues. Tailored brown pants, a braided belt and suede loafers complete his refined, easygoing look. Together, they capture the perfect blend of warmth, comfort and understated elegance, proving that holiday style can be both relaxed and refined.
Cozy sophistication
Hilton Head Island’s Bridget Colbert shines in this cozy, all-black look from Currents. Her soft, fuzzy sweater with a delicate jeweled-bow detail adds a hint of sparkle, perfect for the season’s festivities. Paired with slim black pants woven with a subtle metallic pattern, the look catches the light in all the right ways. Simple black flats with jeweled accents pull the outfit together, striking a balance between comfort and sophistication. It’s an easy, polished choice for relaxing by the fire, enjoying a holiday toast or greeting guests with style and confidence.
Stylist: A season to shine
Holiday style in the Lowcountry is all about warmth, sparkle and easy charm. These three looks from local boutiques capture that spirit, offering inspiration for everything from cozy nights by the fire to festive evenings out. Whether you’re toasting at a holiday party, hosting family at home or watching the little ones unwrap presents, these outfits bring comfort, personality and just the right touch of seasonal magic.
Silver lining
For a look that shines as bright as the season, this silver ensemble from Palmettoes strikes a perfect balance between shimmer and sophistication.
The dress catches the light with every step, fitted through the skirt and relaxed at the top for a flattering, comfortable silhouette. Long sleeves, a high neckline and a small cutout at the back add polish and a hint of allure. Paired with sleek black boots and a matching clutch, it’s a modern take on holiday glam that feels confident, chic and ready for a cocktail party or New Year’s Eve celebration.
Warm welcome
This laid-back yet refined look from Outside Hilton Head proves that cozy can still be chic. A soft cream sweater pairs beautifully with deep green pants for a palette that feels festive but not overdone. Gold layered necklaces bring just the right amount of shine, while brown leather shoes and a matching purse add warmth and texture. It’s a look that feels perfectly at home at an afternoon gathering and polished enough for an evening toast.
Little sparkle
The magic of the holidays comes to life in this sweet and spirited look from Island Child. A bright red sequin dress shimmers with every twirl, paired with a matching bow that adds a dash of festive fun. Gold sequin Mary Janes and a tiny gold purse complete the outfit, creating a picture-perfect look for holiday parties, family photos or Christmas morning excitement. It’s equal parts sparkle and charm, a joyful reminder that holiday style isn’t just for grown-ups.
Fashion Finds
Celebrate the season with a little local sparkle. From glittering jewelry and statement sweaters to cozy hats and gleaming handbags, these handpicked pieces from Lowcountry boutiques make dressing for the holidays feel easy and fun. Whether you’re heading to a party, wrapping presents by the fire or simply adding a touch of shine to your day, these festive finds prove that a little local style goes a long way.
1. Bow to the season
Add a cheerful twist to your holiday look with Gifted’s festive earrings. Handmade from lightweight acrylic, each pair features a bold bow design that glitters with multicolored sparkle. They’re playful, eye-catching and light enough to wear all night while spreading plenty of holiday cheer.
2. Classic twist
This bright red cable-knit sweater from Maggie & Me is a holiday wardrobe staple. Raglan sleeves and a cable pattern that radiates from the neckline give it a touch of personality, while ribbed edges keep the fit sharp. Soft, warm and effortlessly stylish, it’s ideal for festive gatherings or a stroll through Old Town on a cool afternoon.
3. Winter sparkle
Heritage Fine Jewelry’s 18K white gold snowflake pendant captures the beauty of a winter morning. With 2.35 carats of glittering diamonds set in a delicate design, it’s the kind of piece that makes any outfit feel special. Whether it’s worn with a little black dress or a cashmere sweater, it adds a touch of magic to the season.
4. Festive gems
Forsythe Jewelers offers two JB Star rings that bring color and brilliance to the holiday season. One features three emeralds alternating with four round diamonds in 18K yellow gold, a stunning nod to classic green-and-gold elegance. The other showcases five oval rubies and four round diamonds, adding a bold red sparkle that feels both festive and refined. Worn solo or stacked together, these pieces shine long after the season ends.
5. Cozy character
Outside Hilton Head’s Patagonia beanie delivers warmth with personality. In deep green with playful fish motifs and a pop of orange on the pom-pom, it’s equal parts fun and functional. Perfect for cool morning walks or casual outdoor get-togethers, it keeps him cozy while showing off a hint of personality.
6. Golden touch
Gold leather handbags from Spartina 449 bring instant polish to any outfit. The soft metallic sheen feels festive without being flashy, and the practical size makes it easy to carry your holiday essentials in style. It’s the perfect mix of function and flair for holiday gatherings or everyday errands.
Get the Look: Polished for the party
For Hilton Head Island’s Gary Colbert, holiday style is all about easy confidence. His look combines classic tailoring with thoughtful details, showing that men’s fashion can be both relaxed and refined. The result feels natural and not overdone, with just the right mix of comfort and sophistication. Whether you’re hosting friends at home or stepping out for a night of celebration, this polished ensemble proves that looking sharp doesn’t mean sacrificing ease.
Finishing flair
The multicolored glasses from Eyeland Optique tie everything together with personality. Swirls of blue and brown echo the tones in his outfit, adding a touch of fun while keeping things sophisticated.
Velvet refined
Gary’s dark gray-blue velvet sport coat from Palmettoes adds instant elegance. The soft texture feels luxurious, while the understated paisley pattern brings depth and character without being flashy. It’s a statement piece that works just as well at a dinner party as it does for a quiet toast by the fire.
Tailored touch
The tailored gray pants from John Bayley Clothier ground the look with structure and comfort. They offer a sleek silhouette that balances the rich texture of the jacket and transitions effortlessly from day to night.
