How to survive holiday season, with Dazed US and Michael Kors

Halloween has come and gone, the leaves have fallen and the temptation to say, “Let’s circle back in the New Year” is growing strong – in other words, the holiday season is here. From dropping temperatures to overbooked calendars, this time of year can prove stressful for multiple reasons. Where exactly did all your winter coats go? Do you really need to get your sibling’s new partner a gift? Is it fine to wear the same outfit to three different holiday parties?

When it comes to getting through the season ahead, preparation is key, and that means having a solid bag to get you through your day. Thankfully, on November 3, Michael Kors released their Holiday 2026 lineup. From deep reds to soft suedes, this season’s bags in particular are ideal for adding a festive touch to any look. Because while you can’t always guarantee the holidays will go your way, you can at least control your fit, which during the most social time of year, can feel like half the battle. 

Below, our Dazed US team unpacks how they get through the season, style their favourite Michael Kors bags and more. 

What’s your #1 tip for surviving the holiday season?

Bring fuel with you on busy days with lots of tasks to get done! If you’re out shopping and running holiday errands, sorry, but the iced oat latte is not gonna cut it for the whole morning and afternoon. Breakfast is always important, of course – but if you feel yourself getting tired in the middle of holiday to-do’s, don’t reach for the caffeine again until you have a snack and some water. Banana, granola bar, jerky, fruit leather, nuts, etc; throw something portable in your bag to give you real, lasting energy. 

What’s a specific piece or style that screams “holiday” to you? 

Since before I can remember, I have always been dressed in plaid at the holidays. From matching dresses with my sister growing up, to the plaid suits, pants, skirts and ties in my wardrobe today, I love the way plaid is a universal, festive pattern that can feel casual or dressy depending on how you style it into an outfit. 

How are you styling the new Michael Kors bags this season?

I like to switch up my aesthetic quite a bit depending on what I’m doing, and I love that Michael Kors has tons of playful neutrals to choose from. I love the rich materials of the suede Laila bag and the sequin Nolita Pochette bag. I have both in black so they go with almost anything, but they add so much interest to whatever I pair them with. I styled my Laila bag with a studded miniskirt, mohair sweater and chunky boots for a look with tons of texture. The sequin Nolita Pochette is the main character of any look, so for contrast I paired it with lug-sole loafers, sheer socks, wool oversized shorts and a boxy chunky knit to bring some menswear energy to balance out the Nolita’s whimsical vibe.

What’s your #1 tip for surviving the holiday season?

Don’t go to tourist attractions during rush hour. I totally get that we might need to go to these tourist spots for friends and family, or just for the sake of it. But if we do, find times like early in the morning or other times when it won’t be as busy.

What’s a specific piece or style that screams “holiday” to you?

Sweaters. To be honest, I’m not the biggest sweater lover, but I do love a really soft, fuzzy sweater that feels good against your skin. Also, any long skirt made of silky material! I feel like it’s about having a festive spirit during the holidays while also being comfy.

How are you styling the new Michael Kors bags this season?

I love to dress up or dress down my Michael Kors bags! When going out to dinner or drinks, I like to dress up my red leather Hamilton Soft Crossbody Bag with monochrome outfits – like the faux fur jacket (which is also from Michael Kors!) and matching bottoms. I also love the texture of the Bryant Shoulder Bag – the chocolate brown colour feels so fall. I styled it with a dress over wide-leg pants.

What’s your #1 tip for surviving the holiday season?

If you live away from home, create your own tradition to look forward to, like watching a movie franchise at the same time every year. The longer the better! (Mine is The Lord of the Rings.)

What’s a specific piece or style that screams “holiday” to you? 

I go back to New Zealand to see my family during the holiday season, so I know it’s time to celebrate when I’m in shorts and a tee again. Anything I can wear to the beach.

How are you styling the new Michael Kors bags this season?

A small black bag can really take you anywhere – but I had fun pairing my Hamilton Soft satchel  with a little silver-studded mini-dress, sheer tights, and a dramatic furry coat. The next day, I wore it while running errands in my favourite green patterned jeans and a black hoodie.