Brigette Pheloung, a New York-based content creator, has turned her family gatherings into high-fashion events. Known for her bold fashion choices, Brigette stunned her relatives and online followers with an $8,800 designer gown at a casual Thanksgiving dinner. Her tradition of dressing extravagantly for holidays began in 2021 and has since garnered millions of views on social media. Despite mixed reactions, she remains committed to her unique style, finding joy in both her family's laughter and the attention from her large online audience.

The Birth of a Tradition: From Casual Gatherings to Runway Moments

For the past three years, Brigette has transformed traditional holiday dinners into glamorous occasions. In November, she wore an extravagant merino wool gown by Parker Zinn, a piece so luxurious that it was previously seen on actress Kathryn Hahn. The ensemble included a petticoat, adding to its complexity. Brigette’s decision to wear such an elaborate outfit to a family gathering was met with amusement and admiration from her loved ones, who are usually dressed in more casual attire like jeans and sweaters. This contrast has become a beloved part of their holiday celebrations.

The tradition started when Brigette realized how much joy her dramatic fashion choices brought to her family. She documented the entire process, from unboxing the gown to capturing her cousins lining up for photos as if they were at a red carpet event. The videos went viral, amassing over 30 million views across four TikTok posts. Brigette explains that this tradition is not just about the clothes but also about creating unforgettable moments with her family. “Knowing how they would react is truly what got this tradition started,” she shares. Her twin sister Danielle, also a style influencer, supports Brigette’s unique approach to fashion, acknowledging that while she dresses up more than most family members, Brigette’s outfits take it to another level.

Beyond the Spotlight: Balancing Personal Style and Public Opinion

Behind the scenes, Brigette carefully plans each look, considering factors like care and duration. Since many of her outfits are loaned, she ensures they are handled with utmost care. For instance, the Parker Zinn gown stayed on only until after dinner and cleanup. Brigette also reflects on the challenges of maintaining her unique style while managing public opinion. With 1.3 million TikTok followers, her fashion choices are subject to scrutiny, both positive and negative. However, she remains unfazed by criticism, viewing it as a reflection of others' insecurities rather than her own shortcomings.

Looking ahead to Christmas, Brigette is already planning her next showstopping outfit, describing it as "Holiday Barbie" inspired. Her ability to blend personal expression with family traditions has made her a standout figure in the world of social media. Brigette’s commitment to her craft and her unwavering confidence in her choices have earned her a dedicated following and a place in the hearts of her family. “At the end of the day, I’m happy with who I am and what I’m doing, and that’s all that really matters,” she concludes, emphasizing the importance of staying true to oneself amidst external pressures.