Your corporate holiday party is fast approaching, so what are you going to wear??
For many of us, myself included, this is a difficult one to answer. I want to maintain an air of professionalism, but I don’t want to dress like it’s just another day at work.
I used to spend time searching online for ideas on corporate holiday wear, which always turned out to be a bust. Ever tried it? You’ll find dressed up suits (like sequined blasters) or dresses you’d wear to work any day of the week paired with metallic shoes and statement jewelry. I even found a fashion post suggesting wearing a long blazer as a dress! (Please do not do this)
I’m sure many of you can agree that finding somewhere between formal, yet festive and just-another-day can be hard to nail down. Then add on the desire to be professional while still stylish and on trend, and it gets more complicated – that is where I want to offer some help.
First, figure out the suggested dress code for your holiday party or happy hour. Usually it is shared on the invite via wording or theme.
- Black-tie – formal clothing is appropriate, but certain cocktail dresses may work too. A floor-length gown is perfect, fancy cocktail dress, or LBD (little black dress) glammed up with fancy shoes and accessories.
- Black-tie optional – formal clothing is appropriate, but not necessary. A more understated floor-length gown or cocktail dress will work.
- Cocktail attire – the most forgiving of the dress codes and what most corporate party dress codes tend to be. A tea or knee length dress is appropriate, a LBD, a dressy jumpsuit or pants suit will work also.
I encourage you to fight the urge to play it safe with just another little black dress. Don’t get me wrong, a LBD is always in style and classic so don’t think I’m not knocking it! But this time of year offers your safe LBD a break. The holidays allow you the opportunity to step out of your comfort zone. ‘Tis is the season for GLAM and with options in bold hues / jewel tones and luscious fabrics, you should embrace some glamorous chances!
Next, don’t forget about the shoes / accessories and hair / makeup – these can make (or break) an outfit.
- Shoes: Open-toe is appropriate, but don’t think a closed or peep toe won’t work. A closed-toe metallic pump can pair beautifully with a cocktail dress and they are very much on trend this season.
- Accessories: Sparkle and statement jewelry is appropriate, but make sure to balance it with the dress you are wearing. If you have on a sequined or metallic outfit, simple maybe the best option. If your wearing an LBD, your jewelry can be played up much more.
- Hair: This is a perfect opportunity for an updo or lush curls. Don’t know how to do an updo? Don’t stress! It can be as simple as a sock bun or a messy bun. Also, an updo is not a must. Curls can dress up any outfit and can be achieved with a curling iron, flat iron, or hot rollers. Or consider classic straight, polished hair that can be pinned half-up.
- Makeup: No better time for a Smokey eye look than now! Or add a pop of color with some bold lipstick.
Are you needing examples? Ask and you shall receive! The next five days, I will share one outfit per day that are sure to leave you feeling #ConfidentlyCorporate (+glam) and impress your colleagues, and date too! Follow @ConfidentlyCorporate on Instagram and Facebook so you don’t miss out!
Finally, use this opportunity of dressing up and feeling beautiful to let your confidence shine. It’s great to enjoy your time at the event mainly with your squad, but make sure to mingle with those you don’t get regular exposure to. I’d be remiss if I didn’t suggest that you partake in drinking responsibly, keeping in mind that you will see these colleagues in the office come Monday morning.
Now, let me offer a sneak peak of one look I’ll be sharing with you tomorrow!
Who’s ready to see more???
Follow @ConfidentlyCorporate on Instagram and Facebook so you don’t miss out!
Confidently Corporate 