Christmas movies have a bad reputation in terms of style. They’re known for being overly cheesy and gaudy, but amidst all the tinsel there are a few gems. These 10 films are sure to get you in the holiday spirit.
The Thin Man (1934)

This film is the ultimate antidote to loud Christmas movies, with its timeless elegance and sophistication. Costume designer Dolly Tree makes the wealth of the main characters in this mystery known through their luxurious fashion choices. No one wears a pinstripe suit quite like William Powell, and Myrna Loy looks ethereal in her many frothy outfits. 
Meet Me in St Louis (1944)

So maybe it’s not exactly a Christmas movie per se, but it is responsible for “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas.” Judy Garland’s over-the-top, sugary sweet looks in this musical display the grace and niceness of her character. Showcasing the typical American family as they struggle with loss, standout style moments include her dramatic, puff-sleeved red gown and her many ostentatious costumes. 
It’s A Wonderful Life (1946)

This holiday classic is often overlooked in terms of style. Although the costumes are not always placed at the forefront, Donna Reed’s collared dress and ruffled frock really steal the show. The fashion is understated, but costume designer Edward Stevenson conveyed important character details and the passage of time through the clothing. Who doesn’t love reminiscing about the glamor of the 40s?
White Christmas (1954)

This splashy comedy has all the glitz and flamboyance you would expect from a holiday film, and its kitschy, colorful mood really captures 50s fashion. Of course the Santa costumes are great, but Judy Hayne’s turquoise lace number and full-skirted pink gown are to die for. Costume designer Edith Head particularly enjoyed dressing the men in White Christmas, so also worthy of note is Danny’s charcoal gray suit. 
The Desk Set (1957)

The Desk Set hearkens back to a time when office parties were fashionable– can you imagine? The film is remarkable for its feminist undertones, with feminist icon Katherine Hepburn starring. The costume designs are impeccable– not a surprise given the designer was Oscar winner Charles LeMaire. Dina’s purple silk cocktail dress and Bunny’s silver fit and flare dress are particularly striking. 
Bell Book and Candle (1958)

What’s not to love about a movie that features a witch living in Greenwich Village casting love spells? It’s one of those films that could almost double as a Halloween movie. Although everything about Kim Novak’s characters absolutely drips style, her sleeveless green silk dress and her pink nightgown are particularly worthy of attention.
The Apartment (1960)

A more demure holiday film, The Apartment focuses on capturing the loneliness of the season, but it does so with such grace and style. Shirley MacLaine’s fashionably short hairstyle alone is worth the watch– not to mention her off-the-shoulder ballgown with that delicate string of pearls, or her fur-trimmed coat. Come for the costumes, but stay for the darkly comedic and still relatable themes of social isolation and success. 
Babes in Toyland (1961)

This whimsical film is sure to put a smile on your face. The costumes reflect the chaos and quirkiness of the plot, which follows Mother Goose characters, Mary Quite Contrary and Tom the Piper’s son as they attempt to get their happy ending. Although these theatrical looks may be difficult to replicate, you can certainly the high spiritedness of the film at any holiday party. 
Metropolitan (1990)
Directed by Whit Stillman, this drama follows a circle of wealthy college students as they bounce from party to party, occasionally digesting some light philosophy. How could it not be fashionable? From Audrey’s lacy white gown to Jane’s lustrous eggplant dress, Metropolitan is an undiscovered gold mine full of fashion inspiration. 
The Princess Switch (2018)

While it’s not exactly a cinematic masterpiece, the Princess Switch deserves some points for fashion. Stacy’s effortless, casually cool getups exude confidence, but, of course, it is Margaret Delacourt, Duchess of Montenaro, whose outfits really shine in this movie. Her Jacki O-esque, pink co-ord and her red evening gown with matching silk gloves are truly fit for royalty.