What to Wear to the Office Holiday Party?

By Erinn Dumas

Erinn Dumas is a self-proclaimed marketing and communications guru.

It’s the holiday season and a lot of companies have holiday parties. This may lead you to think: “What do I wear?”

If your office is having a holiday party during the work day, the attire is simple. You’ll be wearing what you wore to work. But, if your office has a holiday party on the weekend like mine is, then you may ask yourself, “What’s appropriate?” And, “What does the term cocktail dress really mean?”

Well, first remember that this is an office holiday party, so you shouldn’t wear anything too revealing or too tight. Keep it simple and cute. Something festive always works. So a slightly above the knee dress in shades of black, gold, red, or jewel tone always works. The dress can have a sweetheart neck, long sleeves, asymmetrical… It doesn’t matter. It just has to be tasteful.

And don’t be afraid to pair the dress with a cute brooch, chunky necklaces, or multiple bracelets.

But make sure to stay away from bulky sweater dresses, dresses with deep v-necks, or showing too much cleavage. It is not tasteful and you will be the talk of your colleagues, and not in a good way. 

Here are some of my favorite dresses:

Try this turquoise party dress with draping for your next office party. A sleek ponytail or bun and pumps should do the trick.

The lace overlay and satin ribbon belt make this dress appropriate for the office and the office party with the change of a shoe or the addition of a blazer.

Is the office party out of the office? Get a little dressy with some added vlume to your skirt and a brightly colored pump.