It’s already mid-December and Christmas is not far off – so with the party season well and truly upon us, you could be left wondering what to wear for your festive office celebrations.
If the choice of location is on the quirkier side of things, it can be tough to choose something that’s both stylish and suited to the venue. Luckily, we’ve assembled this Christmas party style guide to make sure that you’re dressed to impress this season no matter where you’re headed:
The traditional
The number one choice of Christmas party venue is, of course, the traditional restaurant meal. But, how should you dress for an occasion like this? It can be uncomfortable to eat a roast dinner in a tight bodycon, but you don’t want to be dressed informally for when you hit the bars later on.
Little black dresses are always a winner in our books, but what if you feel like branching out and stepping up the glam-factor? Show off your pins in a midi dress and channel your inner party animal with leopard or snake print (two patterns that are very on-trend this season). Pair with barely-there sandals and a matching bag and your good to go! Of course, with the temperature being on the chilly side in December, you might want to try jeans with an embellished cami top. The covered legs will keep you warm when you’re moving from restaurant to bar and your fancy top will be admired over the dinner table. This season, it’s all about sequin embellishments and metallic camis — perfect for this years’ festivities.
The extravagant
Truly extravagant venues such as country manors or castles are ideal for trying out a glamorous look. Of course, it depends on what’s lined up for you at your party but it’s nice to look the part. Here, you might be greeted with a medieval banquet, take part in some activities or enjoy a ball in your surroundings.
If it’s an evening of dancing or taking part in traditional medieval activities (sword fighting anyone?) then you might want to opt for trousers. Plisse trousers have been on-trend in recent years — they’re comfy and fashionable! This style is perfect for flexibility in movement and keeping your legs covered for the cooler temperatures. Pair with a three-quarter sleeve fitted top or a bardot style crop to complete your look. This style goes great with flat or heeled shoes, so where what you feel comfortable in. The great thing about these pants too is that they’ve got an elasticated waist (ideal for tucking into a medieval buffet!).
A little quirky
Summer may be officially over – but we all appreciate a good rooftop terrace celebration!
If you’ve been invited to a rooftop party, why not go all out in a sequin maxi dress? Or pair an accordion skirt with a sequin top. Keep your feet warm in suede heeled ankle boots or a dressy loafer.
A warm coat is a must for outdoor events in winter. This season it’s all about faux fur and we’re loving it! Keep it classic in a black or brown waist-length jacket or go big and bold with a coloured fur coat and chunky collar. If this isn’t your style, you can’t go wrong in a classic leather jacket — match with a cross-body clutch and your outfit is complete.
Relaxed fun
A bowling alley may not be the traditional choice of Christmas party venue, but we all appreciate the chance to partake in a little friendly competition! If your Christmas party involves a bowling trip, chances are you’ll probably be heading out for a few drinks afterwards, so you need something that’s suitable for scoring a strike and for when you’re drinking cocktails later on.
You’re likely to be spending most of the evening on your feet, so it’s key that you choose something you can easily move around in. Think on-trend jumpsuits and trousers with a cute top. You’ve probably noticed that ‘80s fashion has been back with a bang this year, and it hasn’t stopped for AW18. It’s all about being bold with your colour palette and really owning it! It’s not often your colleagues get to see you outside of your workwear so show them your true colours in a bold jumpsuit. Choose one with a chunky belt to create that ‘80s inspired cinched waist and accessorise with statement hoops.
Culottes were one of the most popular trends of 2018. But there are so many varieties now that they certainly shouldn’t be kept for just one season. Play it safe with high-waisted black trousers and jazz it up top with a glitter-infused bodysuit or cute crop — pair with a sparkly clutch and you’re good to go.