This post is brought to you by CJ Affiliate’s VIP Content Service. Thank you American Eagle Outfitters for sponsoring today’s post! While this was a sponsored opportunity by American Eagle Outfitters, all content and opinions expressed here are my own. 

It’s that time of year when everyone rushes to take photos for holiday cards and then forgets to send them out on time! Actually, maybe that’s just me? I’m all for the casual holiday look as opposed to being dressed to the nines. I still want to look festive, but in comfortable materials and flat shoes instead of fancy dresses and heels. I love tying in some festive elements like flannel or sparkle, but in a much more toned down way for the holidays. Today I’m sharing TWO outfits perfect for holiday photo cards with American Eagle Outfitters!

Sweater dresses are always a favorite choice of mine because they’re so insanely soft and comfortable while still being feminine and flirty. This one from AEO is seriously the softest I’ve ever owned, and I love that it’s simple enough to be worn with a flannel tied around the waist or even a long maxi cardigan. Also, it’s perfect for expecting mamas….I just recommend sizing up so you don’t lose the length in front! The color I’m wearing is currently sold out, BUT I love the festive color options available! You can check out other great sweater dresses from AEO right here. 

AEO Ahh-Amazingly Soft Flannel Shirt // Sweater Dress // Similar Boots (only $50!!!) // Similar  beanies here and here
    

I decided to keep it simple and cozy and wear my favorite knee high chunky knit socks and riding boots. If the weather was cooler, I would totally add a pair of knit tights underneath instead!

This flannel is insanely soft, and American Eagle had them in a variety of colors. I chose to style it again for the second look to show it’s versatility! For this next holiday outfit, I wore the flannel top open with this adorable lace peplum cami underneath. I chose these wine colored skinny corduroy jeans for a festive look. I love the mix of textures!

AEO Ahh-Amazingly Soft Flannel Shirt // Lace Peplum Cami // Cord x4 Jegging in Wine Similar // Boots // Similar  beanies here and here

Some tips for styling outfits for holiday cards:

Wear something comfortable. If you aren’t comfortable, it will show…even in a photo!

Consider your background setting. Choose colors that will compliment the background you’ll be photographing in front of. I love simple natural scenery like tall grass, trees, or even snow, and the neutral tones won’t clash in the photo. 

Don’t be afraid of white. I’m not sure where the whole “don’t wear white for a photo” thing came from because it’s the FURTHEST from the truth. White can actually be incredibly beautiful, but also has the potential to look stark. Choose ivory if you’re looking for white tones!

Coordinate outfit colors. If you’re taking family photos, have the outfits coordinate in some way. Take this flannel shirt, for instance. If I was photographing with my family, I would probably have my husband in a gray sweater, my son in a striped navy shirt, and my daughter in an ivory top with the same cranberry colored leggings. The colors should all flow together and not be competing against each other.

American Eagle Outfitters is continually impressing me with their clothing every season, and you’ll love their new arrivals for holiday! They’ve got a wide variety of options for men and women, which are perfect for your holiday photos or other events of the season! 

24 Hours Only! Take 40% off + Free Shipping only at AE.com! Prices as marked.