What To Wear To The Work Christmas Party

What To Wear To The Work Christmas Party

If you’re anything like us, the work Christmas party is a highlight of the year and something to look forward to. Whatever format it takes and whatever industry you work in, it’s a chance to let your hair down with your colleagues. You also get to spend time with colleagues in a more natural environment.

Negotiate the Dress Code

Your firm might be an elegant cocktail kind of company, or perhaps your Christmas party will be a family affair with partners and maybe even the kids. When the invitation arrives, you’ll have more of an idea about the dress code and what to wear to the work Christmas party. Once you know what type of party you’re going to, we can help put together the perfect outfit from dresses and shoes to jewelry and purses.

Dressing for work can be simple enough, especially if you have a uniform, but that might pile on even more pressure when it comes to choosing an outfit for a special occasion like the Christmas party. Assuming the Christmas party will have a different dress code from your day-to-day attire, chances are no one you work with will have seen your party clothes, so you might be able to wear just about anything in your wardrobe. However, it’s always nice to have something new! Read on for some ideas to get you started and let us take away the pressure of what to wear!

The Drinks Party

Arguably the most traditional Christmas party, the evening get-together with drinks and appetizers remains one of the most popular party options for a festive occasion. While you might be tempted to choose a little black dress, we say go bold! Choose a little dress, but opt for one in a bright color. We think a cobalt blue or hot pink screams "party", especially when you pair it with some sparkly shoes and statement jewelry.

Metallic accessories are big at the moment and might be the only thing you need to update an existing dress. Put on your party makeup, and you’re good to go.

Christmas Work Lunch

Not all Christmas parties are in the evening. A modern approach for many businesses now is a long lunch, but that doesn't mean that your outfit should be dull. This is still a party! We think a modern celebration requires a modern outfit. That could be a dress or top and skirt. Fun is the name of the game, so look at florals, abstract prints or geometric shapes. Make sure your accessories don’t take themselves too seriously, either.

If you choose to keep your dress plainer, go big with your accessories. It’s a fun and easy way to update your look, and you might be able to wear your outfit several times, possibly even your regular work environment. Otherwise, it might be suitable for New Year’s Eve or even a celebration with your friends and family.

A Family Affair

Speaking of family, sometimes your nearest and dearest are also on the guest list. This probably means the dress code is still somewhat formal, but perhaps not quite as formal as you’d be expected to wear to an evening event. We’re thinking fewer sequins for a family party so you don’t feel overdressed. A family party might have implications on the style of outfit you choose, too; a family occasion is more likely to include games, so you might want to add an extra inch or two to your skirt or opt for flat shoes over towering heels. You’ll feel much more comfortable chasing a child around or running in a picnic game!

The other thing to consider with a family party is that they are more likely where the weather will be warmer, which will impact your outfit choice. If you’ll be outside for much of the day, you’ll need to be prepared for all sorts of weather. Take your sunglasses, and pick a gorgeous wide-brimmed hat for added glamour. A cute sweater adds an extra layer when the temperature starts to drop. With all that in mind, go for a large tote bag to carry everything rather than a small clutch purse. It will have space for your bottled water and snacks for the kids.

Our advice is to plan your outfit with enthusiasm and be ready to have a good time. Of course, you’re still spending time with your colleagues - and your boss! - so you might want to leave the really risqué outfit for another time. You’ll still have to see everyone on Monday!