It's the same thing every year. The initial excitement of party season, the invites flowing in, and then the 'what am I going to wear' panic sets in. How do you actually get it right for a work party? It's not the office, but it's not a wedding either. And you'll be standing next to your boss holding a lukewarm mulled wine, so it needs to be right.
Let us help you nail it, without spending a fortune on something you'll wear once.
First, work out what kind of party it is
This matters more than any trend. A quick check of the details will save you a lot of dithering.
A pub or casual restaurant do. Think smart-casual with a bit of sparkle. A nice blouse or knit with tailored trousers, or a simple dress you can dance in.
A hotel or venue with a sit-down dinner. This is where you can lean into it. A midi or maxi dress, a sharp trouser suit, or a jumpsuit that looks like you made an effort.
A black-tie or "glam" theme. If the invite says so, take it seriously. Nobody has ever regretted being a bit overdressed at a Christmas party.
Daytime or in the office. Keep it polished but relaxed. Add one festive touch, like a velvet blazer or a bit of shimmer, and leave it there.
If you're not sure, ask a colleague. Someone always knows, and you'll be doing the whole team a favour by asking.
The golden rule: dress one notch above normal
Take what you'd wear to work on a good day and go up one level. Jeans person? Swap them for tailored trousers. Suit person? Try velvet or a bolder colour. You want to look like the best version of yourself, not a stranger in a costume.
What works
Velvet. It's practically made for December. A velvet blazer, dress or trouser looks expensive and feels festive without trying too hard.
Jewel tones. Emerald, deep burgundy, midnight blue and rich plum all look great under party lighting and suit almost everyone.
Sequins, in moderation. One sparkly piece is fun. Sequins from head to toe can feel like a lot, unless it's that sort of party. Pair a sparkly top with plain trousers, or a sequin skirt with a simple knit.
A good jumpsuit. Comfortable, elegant, and it looks like you planned it. Underrated for a night that might involve dancing.
A sharp trouser suit. For anyone who'd rather skip the dress, a well-fitted suit in a rich colour (or classic black with a statement top) always looks the part.
What to think twice about
A few things tend to go wrong at work parties, and it's worth knowing them before you're in the taxi.
- Anything you have to keep adjusting. If you're tugging at it in the mirror, you'll be tugging at it all night.
- Very short, very low or very see-through. Your future self, facing Monday morning in the same room, will thank you for keeping it classy.
- Brand new shoes. Blisters by 9pm are not festive fun. Wear them in first, or pick something you know you can stand in for four hours.
- The novelty Christmas jumper, unless it's officially a jumper party. Then go all in, of course.
Don't forget the practical stuff
Party venues are either boiling or freezing, so bring a layer you can add or lose. A nice blazer, a wrap or a smart coat you're happy to hand over at the cloakroom does the job. And think about the journey home too. December in the UK means rain, so shoes you can actually walk in are worth their weight in gold.
Here's the smarter way to do it
The truth about party outfits is that they cost a lot for very few wears. You buy a gorgeous dress, wear it once at the Christmas do, and it goes to the back of the wardrobe. Then next year you feel like you can't be seen in it again.
That's exactly why hiring makes sense. You get to wear something very special, whether that's a velvet dress, a jewel-toned jumpsuit or a sparkly number you'd never usually pick, without the price tag or the guilt. Team it with shoes and jewellery you already own, wear it, love it, and send it back. Simple.
Have a brilliant party and a very Merry Christmas. You've got this!