Tis the season when offices and organizations everywhere start putting those holiday events on the calendar. Maybe it’s just a catered lunch, or it’s Friday night fun & drinks, or a full on Corporate Formal. In any event (see what we did there?), don’t shirk your fashion sense! Make sure you choose an outfit fitting the type of event you’re going to.
Not sure where to start?
Our editors have scoured the latest looks from casual to couture. We’ve found some amazing pieces. Check out our inspirations…
HOLIDAY OFFICE LUNCH
Let’s kick things off with the company Holiday Lunch. Lots of businesses these days are opting for this type of event. First because it’s less pricey than a full-on corporate event, and secondly because it’s during work hours, so people generally tend to do a better job of “self-editing”. So as a middle-of-the-workday function, you could wear your regular digs, or even go Friday casual. Sure. But why miss out on an opportunity? Depending on the size of your organization, there could be individuals there, like your SVP, who hasn’t seen you since your interview. You might even get to meet your CEO, who’s only seen you as part of an All-Hands crowd of Zoom faces. This event offers you the chance to get to speak to them one-on-one. As such, looking polished not only presents you immediately in a good light (7 second rule, remember?) it also bolsters your confidence, which everyone will find appealing (especially you!).
Starting with a real color punch, this sheath dress from Black Halo was made for the holiday lunch.
Black Halo, Booker Sheath Dress $390
Office-friendly, this power suit from rag & bone looks festive with a touch of shine.
rag & bone, Charles Shine Cotton Blazer $412.50 and Slim Fit Pant $243.75
Looking for an impeccably made dress that’s both iconic and fresh? Go for the legendary Wrap Dress, refreshed in rich cashmere.
Diane von Furstenberg, Linda Wool-Cashmere Wrap Dress $468
Take advantage of the leather trend by elevating an otherwise fair-looking office look into holiday chic.
Boston Proper, Faux Leather Wide Leg Trouser $119.50 and Floral Print Organza Shirt $119.99
What happens when you mix the LBD with the suit? In the case of this blazer dress from Karl Lagerfeld, the answer is…instant chic.
Karl Lagerfeld, Blazer Dress $168
BUSINESS DINNER
Now we’re starting to up the ante in the Holiday Party department. Being an after hours event, the office holiday dinner gives time for folks to head home and change into something more upscale. These events also usually allow for your significant other to join, so expect a lot of social activity and plan for outfits that will look amazing and comfortable through a series of standing, sitting and potentially even some dancing.
This sparkling sequined midi hits the perfect balance of fun and festive…
Windsor, Mellie Formal Sequin Midi Dress $62.90
We love the rich brocade of this cap-sleeve, high-low dress from David’s Bridal.
David’s Bridal, Floral Brocade High-Low Dress $169.95
When they say “like a boss”, this is what they’re talking about…
Windsor, Major Metallic Moment Jumpsuit $69.90
Gorgeous dark green velvet and lots of ruching make wearing this midi as comfortable as it is pretty.
Windsor, Vivacious Velvet V-Neck Midi Dress $44.90
The simplicity of a slip dress, dipped in decadent dark burgundy.
Reformation, Aribella Ruffled Dress $112 (on Sale NOW from $280)
HOLIDAY PARTY FUN & DRINKS
This is the least structured of all the potential holiday events on our list. Because there’s no meal or real planned agenda (beyond maybe a quick 5 to 10 minute “Congrats on everyone and your hard work” speech from the boss), people can feel free to come and go as they please. And as the night carries on, so too goes the party. Some folks may want to kick the energy up a notch and take it to the club. Others may want to grab a late bite. Or both. For this occasion you can go full on holiday glam! Just bear in mind you’ll be on your feet most of the night, and won’t have the advantage of a secure location for your stuff. So keep your friends close, and your handbag closer…
Haven’t found your perfect party LBD yet for the holidays? We found it for you with this satiny, sultry mini dress from Windsor. YW.
Windsor, Caroline Halter Neck Satin Mini Dress $54.90
This simple, classic sheath silhouette gets a big upgrade with a glittery gold floral pattern.
Boston Proper, High Neck Floral Sequin Sheath $149.99
Who says you need a dress to drip on the dance floor? This stunning sequin jumpsuit will show off all the right curves with every move you make.
Windsor, Stunning Shine Sequin Halter Catsuit $69.90
In love with Lurex? Let’s make this official with this cherry-channeling mini dress.
Retrofête, Mindi Dress $199.99 (on Sale NOW from $615)
Show off those sexy shoulders as you sway to the music with this dazzling, glitter mesh mini dress from Windsor.
Windsor, Dazzle The Night Glitter Mesh Dress $44.90
CORPORATE FORMAL
Last but not least, we have the main event (pun intended), namely the Holiday Corporate Formal. These are usually precluded by a series of HR email confirmations that include things like attendance, name of your plus one, and in many cases an actual hour by hour breakdown of the whole venue. There is an expectation of social decorum with these events, and that includes an outfit to match. Probably the best rule of thumb for formals is, when in doubt, go long, and get your fancy on…
Deep burgundy gets its bling on with this full length, glorious gown by Windsor.
Windsor, Wendy Sequin Off the Shoulder Dress $129.90
This beautiful, ombré gown is a real showstopper.
Rene Ruiz, Strapless Ombre Gown $399.99
There’s a reason velvet was royalties fabric of choice for centuries. Channel your inner regal in this sumptuous red velvet gown.
Windsor, Tori Formal Sleeveless Velvet Mermaid Dress $64.90
Waltz in and woo the crowd with this alluring bronze gown from Lulus.
Lulus, Sparkly Bronze Twist Front Maxi Dress $84
Go head to toe glamour by suiting up in this sexy ensemble. Plenty of bling to bring in both the jacket and pants, while a silky champagne satin bustier bodysuit keeps the look smooth below.
Windsor, Showtime Chic Sequin Long Blazer $52.90 & Sparkle Show Sequin Flare Pants $42.90 w/Lulus Champagne Satin Bustier Bodysuit $34
So there you have it – TWENTY fits, all ready to go for you. How’d we do? Give us a shout and let us know, and from our work family to yours – Happy Holidays!!
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