What to Wear in Office Holiday Party

What should you wear to a holiday office party? We’ve got six ideas for you, whether it’s for your holiday company party, your SO’s office party, or another holiday networking event.

Unless you are absolutely certain that cocktail attire (or black tie!) is appropriate, choose two from the categories below and mix them with regular workwear.

1. Party Blazer

PARTY BLAZER

I’ve always been partial to a festive blazer. Not only can you look professional, but I frequently find that a layered look is the best way to dress for the holiday office party: party blazer + statement necklace, or party blazer + bright work dress, for example. You can also use your festive blazer to extend the life of your weekend clothes and wear things that you wouldn’t normally wear to work.

Personally, I prefer the structure of a blazer, but a sparkly cardigan can work as well.

2. Party Polish Skirts

A party skirt is one of the simplest items to find and wear, but be wary of spending too much money on it. It will be memorable, and because it is part of your outfit, it will be difficult to wear year after year.

Maintain an office-appropriate hem length, and keep in mind that the fancier (and less office-appropriate) the skirt feels, the more subdued your top and shoes should be.

3. Pants For A Party

Party pants are another excellent option. Party pants look festive and happy when paired with a regular work staple like a button-front or a cashmere sweater (ooh, or this DvF ballerina sweater). Look for velvet, jacquard, and limited sequins — and tuxedo pants or dramatically wide, flowy trousers can also be appropriate for this type of occasion.

There’s been a lot of velvet jeans lately, but keep in mind that they’re not appropriate for every office, so know yours. Banana Republic, Loft, and Talbots, as well as brands like Paige, offer a wide range of colours and fits. Nordstrom also has some nice trouser-style velvet pants.

4. Cocktail Jewels For A Party
 COCKTAIL JEWELS FOR A PARTY

True, statement necklaces aren’t as popular as they once were, but there’s nothing better for an office holiday party, and nothing better way to instantly jazz up a regular work dress or the like. Add one more item from this list and you’re done.

Here are  eye-catching statement necklaces… Not to mention Alexis Bittar, Karine Sultan, Bauble Bar, Deepa Gurnani, Knotty, and even All Saints and Kendra Scott.

5. Party jumpsuits for the office
PARTY JUMPSUITS FOR THE OFFICE

For my money, this is the most difficult to master. A bright dress or blouse may feel festive, but it will be a snoozefest at the party. A lace dress can feel ladylike and elegant at times, but it can also feel like you’ve unintentionally dressed for a wedding when you’re just a step up from what you’d normally wear to work.

A few general observations: Keep an eye on your hem length and cleavage. I wouldn’t recommend a strapless dress — layer it with something else, like a cardigan or blazer, but don’t be too concerned if you end up taking that layer off.

Published: February 13, 2023

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *