It’s getting close to that time of year when you need to have a stockpile of fabulous outfits for all of those parties you will inevitably be invited to. The first to prepare for - and possibly the most daunting – is the work Christmas party. *cue mild panic attack*
It’s here that you will want to look good, make a good impression on your boss, show your colleagues your sophisticated out-of-office persona, but at the same time remain professional and true to the “you” that they have come to know at work.
Here are some handy tips to keep in mind when planning your perfect work party outfit:
- It may not be held in your office, but you are still essentially “at work” with your co-workers – so don’t dress like you’re about to have a night on the town with the girls! Avoid anything too short, tight or low-cut – bear in mind, if you wouldn’t wear a skirt that short to work, then it’s probably not going to be appropriate at the office function either.
- Find out what the dress code is – casual, smart-casual, formal, black tie? A formal or black tie function will obviously call for something dressier – a cocktail or evening dress in some cases. Use our ‘How to pick a dress for your body shape’ guide to help you figure out which style suits you best and remember to keep it tasteful and professional – avoid plunging necklines, backless numbers or crazy cut-outs! A classic shift dress or wrap dress with a hemline no shorter than mid-thigh is ideal. If you’re still unsure what the dress code calls for, then ask your colleagues what they’re planning on wearing.
Oasis dress V-back shift dress, £70
Rupert Sanderson Decor slingback pumps, £269.82 from MyTheresa
Nica rose ring, £8 from Debenhams
Jaeger London square block shift dress, £320 from My-Wardrobe
Carvela glow high heels, £110
Oasis irregular facet drop earrings, £12
French Connection Bex dress, £130
Monsoon Ursula print dress, £60
Lipsy studded shift dress, £55
Diane von Furstenberg Tessa wrap dress, £180 from TheOutnet
- If your party is a lunch or will take place directly after work, then you will want to dress appropriately for work but also “jazz” things up a bit to incorporate some festive flair. You can do this by wearing your normal suit trousers or pencil skirt but change your work shirt for a silky camisole or blouse or bring along a pretty, embellished cardigan or wrap to substitute for your suit jacket.
Day Birger et Mikkelson Day Helen armoured top, £255 from My-Wardrobe
McQ Alexander McQueen black studded cardigan, £345 from My-Wardrobe
Jigsaw Bouquet print silk shirt, £120
Anna Sui mixed print cami top, £156
Star by Julien Macdonald black bead embellished cardigan, £40 from Debenhams
Chloe draped silk blend top, £630 from Net-a-Porter
- Since you’ll be keeping your party-wear on the more conservative side, your accessories are your chance to less loose a little bit. A pair of strappy heels or fashionable ankle boots worn with tights will dress up your outfit, especially if you usually wear practical flats. Just ensure you don’t wear your most uncomfortable pair – remember, you’re potentially going to be standing around and mingling, dancing and you may even have to walk a bit to get to your destination.
- With jewellery, now is your chance to wear your gorgeous chandelier earrings or cocktail ring that wouldn’t look right in the workplace. Just don’t go overboard and wear all your jewellery at the same time! One or two key pieces is more than enough.
- Swap your day-to-day handbag or briefcase for a pretty clutch. If you’re wearing head-to-toe black, try for a pop of bright colour. Sequins and beading are also perfect for this time of year – so festive!
