I'm a Busy Mom With Lots of Holiday Events—This Affordable Mall Brand Is My Secret Hack for Cute, Comfy Outfits

I’m an Old Navy stan, and I’m always shouting from the rooftops how good the quality is for the price. Lately, the retailer has been producing hit after hit, such as cute fleece vests and the soft, comfy $19 jeans I wear almost every day. Plus, one of my favorite things about Old Navy is that almost all items come in petite, regular, and tall sizes, and go up to 4XL, making the brand truly inclusive.

That being said, while I adore Old Navy, I’ve always considered it a place to find good basics and activewear and not much else. My mind was recently blown, though, when I started sifting through the new holiday collection—there are genuinely good pieces, with sequins and silk and slinky dresses for all.

As a busy mom who doesn’t have a ton of time to shop, I appreciate how easy Old Navy’s extensive collection makes it to find the perfect festive look. Below are a few of my favorites to get you in the holiday spirit, all under $30.

Old Navy Holiday Fashion

• Plaid Perfection: Puff-Sleeve Plaid Fit & Flare Taffeta Mini Dress, $30 (Originally $50)
• Boho Vibes: Wool-Blend Ruffle Tie-Front Cropped Cardigan, $18 (Originally $45)
• ‘90s Glam: Off-the-Shoulder Ruched Velvet Mini Dress, $13 (Originally $33)
• Showstopping Set: Taffeta Cropped Halter Bow Top, $12 (Originally $30) and Taffeta High-Waisted Midi Skirt, $24 (Originally $40) 
• Sequins under $30: High-Waisted Sequin Midi Pencil Skirt, $27 (Originally $45)
• Full-Coverage Holiday Top: Shirred Chiffon Long-Sleeve Top, $16 (Originally $40)

Puff-Sleeve Plaid Fit & Flare Taffeta Mini Dress

For an easy holiday stunner that doesn’t require much effort, try this plaid puff-sleeve mini dress. It has a smocked back for a comfortable fit, and comes in two party-ready colors.

Wool-Blend Ruffle Tie-Front Cropped Cardigan

It’s so fun to have glittery outfits for nights out, but I personally love it when an item can be re-worn in daily life, such as this wool-blend cardigan. The V-neck, ruffle cuffs and ruffle neckline give it a feminine touch, and the cropped length makes it feel modern.

Off-the-Shoulder Ruched Velvet Mini Dress

If you want to go all out, this velvet off-the-shoulder number is the best way to do it. It has an asymmetrical, skin-baring neckline with ruching on one side and a demure slit. I love the ‘90s-inspired colors, especially the pretty burgundy shade.

Taffeta Cropped Halter Bow Top and Taffeta High-Waisted Midi Skirt

This set is what originally made my jaw drop when browsing Old Navy’s holiday offerings. The top is cropped with an adorable bow detail on the back, and the skirt fits high and comfortably at my natural waist. You can extend the life of the skirt and rewear it with slinky tanks, blouses and crisp button-downs.

High-Waisted Sequin Midi Pencil Skirt

Sometimes you just have to go with a classic, such as this sequined pencil skirt. I love how the oversized sequins shine without feeling costumey. I’d pair this with a fuzzy cream sweater and tall boots for a relaxed-but-festive look.

Shirred Chiffon Long-Sleeve Top

This shirred chiffon blouse has a high neckline and long sleeves with double-buttoned cuffs, keeping things elegant without being too revealing. A versatile pick, it would look great with a pencil skirt or even with a simple pair of jeans.