I cannot overstate that a holiday office party is a business function. Period. End of discussion. The rule of thumb is, if you wear it for a night out on the town, then do not wear it to the office holiday party.
Ladies:
Wear a nice dress with tasteful accessories and no more than one of any type of accessory.
Since this season’s fashion trend is “Make A Statement,” it is acceptable to wear one statement piece of jewelry and other minimal accessories.
Do not wear shoes with too high of a heel. Yes, over the knee boots are the trend for Fall/Winter 2016/2017, but they absolutely do not belong at an office holiday party.
If you can see your cleavage, so can everyone else.
The dress is too low if you have to constantly pull it up by the straps because it shows your cleavage.
If you have to keep pulling down the dress, then it is too short.
Make sure your undergarments do not show.
If you wear Spanx, take them for a test run. Put them on and sit down. If the hem of your dress rises above the Spanx, then either don’t wear the Spanx or wear a different dress.
*For inspiration on what to wear, check out The 2016/2017 Fall/Winter Fashion Lookbook that I put together.
Men:
Consider the office culture and the location of the event. If you are required to wear a suit to work, then it is a good bet that you should wear a suit to the party, unless specifically stated that the event is casual and even then there are dress code rules.
If a suit is not required, then wear nice slacks, nice shirt and tie.
Do not put on a nice shirt (untucked) slacks and shoes. Somehow this has become an acceptable dress look for men. Tuck in your shirt and wear a tie!
If you do not own a suit and you can afford to buy one, do so. A man should always own at least one well-fitted suit.
For both men and women:
Make sure your shoes are well-maintained, polished and in good condition
Make sure clothes are ironed to elevate your look
Do not put on too much perfume or cologne.
Some people are allergic to fragrances and it gives them headaches.
Manicures (yes, even buffed nails for gentlemen) create a polished look
Dandruff, a sensitive topic, must be addressed
With everyone looking their best, it’s natural to want to comment on appearances. Men, just don’t. There is just too much risk involved should your compliment be misunderstood or misinterpreted. Ladies, other women always appreciate a heartfelt compliment.
