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With the party season around the corner, you may be wondering what is appropriate to wear to the work Christmas do — and luckily, we have a list of stylish yet affordable outfit suggestions for you!
From casual gatherings like happy hour at the bar on the corner or in-office Christmas party games, to more black-tie events at fancy venues, we have assembled the best party attire you can add to your wardrobe.
So, read on if you’re looking for some outfit inspiration for this year’s party!
For women
1. Velvet cocktail dress
You can’t go wrong with a velvet number at a fancy Christmas party, and this emerald green will be sure to make a statement. The long sleeves will keep you warm, while the ruched detailing is flattering on every body type! Pair this with some statement earrings and a strappy heel for a jaw-dropping appearance.
2. Sequin top and jeans
Want a little bit of Christmas sparkle but a more casual look? This sequin strappy top is the ideal item! Dress the shiny top down with these black skinny jeans and a court shoe. To finish off your outfit, add a bit of lipstick and wear your hair in a ponytail for an effortless yet glam look.
3. Retro vintage cocktail dress
Be daring in this bold vintage cocktail dress this party season! The knee-length and cap-sleeved design ensures that you’re covered in all the right places while looking phenomenal. Finish the look with a loosely waved hairdo and a pair of rounded, heeled pumps.
4. Off-the-shoulder jumpsuit
This elegant off-the-shoulder jumpsuit is ideal for any seasonal party. The ruffled off-the-shoulder detail is simple yet elegant. You can dress it up with a pair of dangly earrings and strappy heels or dress it down with a pair of ballerina pumps or flats.
5. Tulle maxi skirt
This tulle maxi skirt comes in a range of colors and is ideal for any type of event. You can dress it down with a pair of trainers and a T-shirt or cropped jumper. Alternatively, you can create a super-glam look with an off-the-shoulder bodice, a waist-belt and a pair of strappy heels.
6. Two-piece suit
If a dress isn’t your style, then this two-piece suit is right up your alley! The tortoiseshell buttons add detail to the long blazer. Simply pair it with a plain tank top and a pair of heels. If you’re not a heel type of girl, then don’t worry; this outfit will look great with some brogues.
7. Evening cocktail dress
If you’re attending a black-tie event, then you’re going to need something fancy. This affordable high-neck maxi dress is perfect for the event. The best part? Since the dress is black, it will go with your favorite work accessories and shoes!
8. Midi dress
If full-glam isn’t your style, then this midi dress is a more comfortable option. The red option is perfect for the holiday season and will add a splash of color to your party attire. To finish the look, wear a pair of statement earrings along with a simple clutch bag.
9. Mesh blouse
A detailed mesh blouse may be all you need for a smart-casual vibe. This versatile top can be worn with a pair of smart trousers or even your favorite pair of jeans. Regardless of the occasion, you can look the part in this eye-catching blouse.
10. Off-shoulder sequined maxi dress
If you really want to make a statement and wow the crowd, you could do so in this sequined number! Just be sure to keep your makeup and shoes quite simple so that you don’t look over the top. Soft tones are ideal for such a loud dress.
11. V-neck jumpsuit
When in doubt, wear a jumpsuit! Deep, rich colors like navy, crimson and burgundy can be excellent for formal work parties, especially at a time like the winter holidays. All you’ll need to complete the look are a pair of heels and a clutch bag.
12. Long-sleeved sequin sheath dress
While a mini dress may not be appropriate for a work event, you can still look dazzling in a midi sheath dress — especially one that’s covered in sequins. If you go for an outfit like this, you might want to keep the accessories to a minimum; otherwise, the sparkle factor will become overwhelming.
13. Leather-look blazer
If dresses aren’t really your thing but you still want a piece that’s a little more out of the ordinary for your Christmas work do, a leather-look blazer could be a good option. It’s not something most people would wear every day, plus it can easily be combined with various styles of trousers or even skirts.
14. Shift dress with mesh sleeves
Elegant and eye-catching, a shift dress with mesh sleeves can help you channel your confidence. Going for an option that has an embellished collar can add that unexpected factor to your ensemble while also reducing the need for elaborate or heavy accessories.
15. Top and skirt co-ord
A two-piece outfit consisting of a crop top and a figure-hugging skirt will not only look good but will also eliminate the need for having to do your own matchmaking between clothing items. With a co-ord, you only have to worry about what color you want; the rest of your attention can go to your accessories and shoes!
For men
1. Slim-fit suit
You can’t go wrong with a three-piece suit if you’re looking to impress at this year’s holiday party. If it’s an indoor event, you can drop the jacket for a more casual look. Pair this outfit with some clean brogues or suit shoes for a finished look.
2. Tuxedo
Dress to impress with this luxury tuxedo at an affordable price. Instead of paying hundreds for your outfit, invest in this reasonably priced option. Pair the tuxedo with a dress shirt, pocket square, waistcoat and dress shoes, without forgetting your cufflinks and tie pin.
3. Floral tuxedo jacket
If you want to add a twist to your regular suit ensemble, then invest in this stylish floral jacket. It’s ideal for fancy work events that require formal attire, and its embroidered patterns make this statement jacket a real head-turner. If you’re looking to impress, this is your go-to outfit.
4. Pea coat
If you’re heading to an outdoor event, then you’re going to need to stay warm. And what better way than with an on-trend pea coat? You can pair it with a stylish scarf, Chelsea boots and your favorite pair of jeans!
5. Brass button blazer
For a semi-formal dress code, opt for a smart blazer. You don’t have to wear matching shirt and bottoms; in fact, you can opt for separates, like this blazer with a pair of smart chinos, for example.
6. Crew neck sweatshirt
For an in-house kind of event, why not opt for this smart yet casual sweatshirt? Although it comes with a bigger price tag than the other options featured on this list, it’s something that you can wear to work time and time again!
7. Chino pants
The perfect pair of chinos does exist in the form of these tailored pants. These statement trousers can be worn during any season and with any top depending on the look that you’re going for. Whether it’s a blazer for a formal event or a jumper for a casual lunch, this purchase won’t go to waste!
8. Knitted cardigan
For a fully festive vibe, opt for a knitted cardigan. This piece could be ideal for “Christmas jumper day” or a party at the office or the local pub. Paired with some jeans, you can make this festive outfit a trendy one, too.
9. Wool blazer
If you want to master the smart-casual dress code, wear this wool blazer for a more relaxed look. You can pair it with straight-cut jeans and a shirt. To finish off the look, wear a colorful slim tie and a pair of brogues or Oxford shoes.
10. Flannel shirt
Nothing says winter like a flannel shirt. This is also a great fit for a smart-casual event. Worn with jeans or chinos, you can look stylish with minimal effort. If it gets cold, you can wear the shirt on top of a jumper, too.
11. Rib knit turtleneck
Depending on how formal (or not!) the venue is, you could skip the button-downs and waistcoats, and pick a more comfortable yet flattering turtleneck. Besides feeling soft and warm, it can easily complement whatever is already in your closet, from chino pants to denim trousers, and from oxfords to desert boots.
12. Slim-fit, button-down shirt
For warmer, indoor venues, a fitted, button-down shirt can be all you need. Pick a color like dark grey or olive for a less “loud” and more formal getup, or get your holiday cheer on with a bolder shade like wine red or electric blue.
13. Waistcoat
A tweed-look waistcoat can add a bit of an unexpected touch to your outfit. To channel that Christmassy feeling, pick a pattern like plaid or a shade of green, red or beige. Pair with a tie in a complementary color, a pressed shirt and some smart trousers and you’re ready to go.
14. Long overcoat
A long overcoat will give you that photoshoot-ready feeling. And, since your work BFF will take a ton of selfies with you and keep dragging you over to the photobooth, you may as well arrive prepared. A turtleneck beneath and a pair of slim-fit pants are all you’ll need.
15. Pullover vest
A pullover vest can be great for anyone looking to give more of a cozy vibe to their Christmas party outfit. If you end up going for a vest that’s got a knitting stitch pattern, then it’s a good idea to avoid patterned shirts or trousers underneath.
Final thoughts
By following our practical outfits guide, you’ll be sure to win the Best-Dressed Employee Award.
You don’t have to break the bank to get dressed up for your seasonal events! Make sure to reuse these options if you have multiple parties to attend, by pairing them with different accessories and jackets each time.
What Christmas parties are you attending this year? Let us know what dress style you like the most by leaving a comment in the section below.
Originally published on December 13, 2018. Updated by Electra Michaelidou.