What I don’t like about office Christmas parties is looking for a job the next day – Phyllis Diller
The Christmas season means invitations and events, which means plenty of opportunities to glam up and wear all your favourite party outfits, or invest in a little something extra.
If the dress code is ‘Festive’ it can be tempting to pull out your flashing Christmas accessories or your Reindeer jumper (think Bridget Jones and Mr Darcy) and whilst this isn’t your most stylish option sometimes it’s the only time you can get away with it! Save such items for the fun family barbeque with the kids and seek more tasteful options if possible.
A work related or formal event, even with a festive theme, means by all means get out the sparkles and traditional Christmas colours, but leave the candy canes and Santa Claus themed accessories at home. It’s hard to beat a little black dress with gold or silver accessories if you are just not sure what festive really means, it’s one of those subjective dress codes that can be easily misinterpreted.
When it comes to after- hours events, over dressing is not only acceptable at this time of year but in fact expected, so why not go all out and put on your best party dress. Metallic is a big hit at this time of year, and on trend as well, so it you really want to go all out shiny and sparkly is the way to go. If your event starts earlier in the day and heads into the evening, you might want to tone it back a little. Colour and prints are perfect for day time events, and you can change your shoes, accessories and reapply makeup for the next round of celebrations after dark. With long days and warm nights to enjoy, it really is a shame to not make the most of it in dresses of all lengths and styles.
Some women prefer not to wear dresses, and are more comfortable in separates. This doesn’t mean you can’t get into the party spirit! Dressy pants paired with a sophisticated top or a short sleeved sparkly cardigan or blazer will have you standing out in the crowd. Team this with some killer heels and great accessories and you will look stylish as well as comfortable, especially if the night turns cool as it can at this time of year.
If you like separates but prefer a skirt, more formal and feminine options for party dressing would be A-line or straight in lace or satin, or again sequins or sparkles! If you prefer a simpler or understated look but still want to join in the glamour stakes, a statement clutch or great shoes in a festive colour could be all it takes to take things up a notch.
Not every party is going to be dressy, and whilst it can be tempting to go all out, sometimes your favourite jeans will be the best choice. Choose your darkest and dressiest and match with a top that is just a little extra special, great shoes and accessories for a casual chic look.
You can take the simplest day or work outfit from business to party with the right accessories and a little extra grooming. This is the perfect time to show off your fanciest clutch and stunning shoes, to get party ready with minimum effort.
Christmas is all about feeling happy and celebrating, and your outfit should show this! Standing out, showing your personality and making others smile is the theme of the season, so why not get into it?
Category: Fashion Advice, Party Dressing, Style Advice
