Holiday Lookbook
Hi Y'all!
The holiday season is officially upon us. Downtown Dakar is already glowing with lights and festive figurines, shop windows are filled with Christmas decorations and toys, and everywhere you turn, the city feels alive with celebration. Even with inflation weighing on daily life, the festive mood is unmistakable.
Personally, the moment December arrived, I felt it in my bones- and not only because the weather finally turned cold. All I want to do is close my work laptop, take leave, and shift into full holiday mode—planning, shopping, meeting friends, and simply enjoying the moment. Sadly, my official time off does not start until Christmas Eve, which means a few more intense weeks of work ahead before I can truly relax.
I don’t have anything extravagant planned for the holidays—just the traditional Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve dinners at home with family. What I am most excited about is having all my babies under one roof again. That, to me, is the greatest gift. Of course, there will also be outings with my girlfriends, a few work events, and family gatherings. And for all of that, I found myself curating outfits for each occasion.
Here’s a little preview of my holiday looks.
Last Work Event Before the Holidays
I have a convention to attend right before Christmas. I will be standing at a booth for most of the day, welcoming participants and networking. Comfort is key, but I still want to look polished and professional. For this occasion, I chose an outfit that balances ease, structure, and style—perfect for a long day on my feet.
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Get-Together with My Cousins
Every month, I meet up with my cousins on my Father's side for our little family tradition, and this will be the last one of the year. It happens right after the convention, and honestly, I’m not even sure I’ll have time to change between the two venues. But if I do manage to squeeze in a quick outfit change, I already have something chic and effortless in mind—something comfortable enough after a long day, yet cute enough for photos and laughter.
Christmas Party at Work
This year’s office Christmas party will be a late lunch with games. No over-the-top glam required, just something festive and work-appropriate. I’m going for a look that feels light, colorful, and still very “me.” However, the dress code is supposed to be Traditional attire. I will probably go for a boubou from my latest collection.
Christmas Eve Diner at Home
This is my favorite moment of the season. I finally get to wear my burgundy sequin skirt—my little holiday treasure. I even have a matching sweater somewhere in my closet that I am eager to rediscover. Since I’ll be staying in, I’ll keep my shoes simple and comfortable, by adding my golden thongs for a subtle festive touch before calling it a cozy night with family.
Christmas Lunch at My Cousins’ Place
The day after Christmas, we all head to my Christian cousins’ house for lunch. It’s always a laid-back, warm, and joyful gathering, but I still like to dress up a little. I’ll be wearing a light boubou I bought back in June. Depending on the weather, I may add a heavier shawl and leggings for comfort.
Girls’ Night Out
Of course, no holiday season is complete without at least one girls’ night out. Laughter, good food, endless conversations, and that special kind of energy only girlfriends bring. For this, I’m planning something fun, confident, and festive—a look that says “end of year, we made it.”
Going out dancing
I’m not sure I’ll even get the chance to go out dancing during the holidays—it’s always a bit hectic trying to find a good spot at that time of year. But if the opportunity does arise, this is what I plan to wear. I might switch the platform heels for a pair of silver sneakers for extra comfort.
New Year's Eve
For the past few years, I’ve been spending New Year’s Eve at home. Traffic is always chaotic, and venues tend to be overpriced, so staying in with family just makes more sense. We still manage to throw our own little party with plenty of good food, so it never feels like we’re missing out. For the occasion, I’ll be going for something easy yet fancy.
You can also get inspiration from my outfits to create your own looks. Please remember to keep the outfits festive, but also to dress for the weather. Who knows? It might even snow in Dakar! (LOL)
The holidays don’t always have to be extravagant to be beautiful. Sometimes, it’s just about being present, feeling grateful, dressing up for the moments that matter, and enjoying time with the people you love.
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