How to Dress for a Holiday Office Party

The holiday office party is a great way to unwind and get to know co-workers better. Dress guidelines are usually undefined, but men can wear nice pants with a shirt and tie, which can transform into a less casual outfit if needed by removing the tie and loosening a few buttons. For women it can be confusing, so follow these steps when planning your outfit for the next office party.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Read the details provided to you about the office holiday party. Note key things such as time of day, location and events planned.

2. Use the company-provided details to help you determine what type of clothes to wear. For example, if there will be dancing or a lot of standing, select comfortable shoes. If you need to sit on the floor or a stage, pick a longer dress, skirt or slacks.

3. Think about where you're coming from to help you plan your attire. When the office party is during the workday, choose an outfit which can be worn at work, but is a little dressier. For parties which allow time for you to come from home, you can wear something dressier that you wouldn't normally wear to the office.

4. Select shoes for fashion and function. Choose shoes with a little glitter or a festive color such as red or green if it suits you.

5. Choose your clothing based on all previous steps. Choose a skirt or or sleek satin pants for bottoms. Blouses made of a dressier material like silk or cashmere are classic or select one which has a little sparkle such as sequins. Velvet is also a nice winter fabric.

6. Accessorize your outfit. Have only one or two items on your entire ensemble which are either holiday-themed or have glitter or shine. For example, wear a Christmas tree pin and glittery shoes. When in doubt, keep it understated.

Tips & Warnings

• Remember that even if the party is being held after hours and away from the office, you are still bound by the rules of the company. For all practical purposes, you are in the office, so do not do or wear anything you wouldn't in the office.
• Don't go overboard, especially with Christmas clothing and accessories. Remember it's a holiday party, and although many people associate it to Christmas, there are other holidays being celebrated as well.
• Don't dress overly sexy or you could wind up being the topic of office gossip following the party.