You know what to wear to work on any given day, but dressing for a holiday party with those same coworkers? Well, that’s where things get a little more nuanced. The goal is to strike the perfect balance between professional and festive, which can be understandably tricky. Luckily, your favorite trousers and sweaters already have plenty of party potential—and can be easily elevated for the occasion with a few key touches.
Below, five foolproof ways to dress for the celebration, whether your style leans toward polished separates or festive finishing touches. But before you start planning your look, here’s what to know about navigating the dress code.
Do take your cue from the invitation. A casual gift exchange at the office calls for a different look than an evening cocktail reception. Let the dress code, venue, and your workplace culture guide your outfit choice, and when in doubt, err on the side of polished.
Don’t skip the sit-down test. A midi or knee-length hem is always a safe starting point, but it’s worth evaluating your full look before you leave the house. Check necklines, slits, sheer details, and open backs, then sit, walk, and move around to make sure everything feels as comfortable as it looks.
Do think desk-to-drinks. A complete outfit change isn’t always necessary, especially when the party starts as soon as the workday ends. Pair a festive blouse with tailored trousers or a sleek skirt for the workday, then swap your tote for a clutch and add a few statement accessories before heading to the celebration.
Don’t break in new shoes. Holiday parties often involve more standing and mingling than expected, so stick with shoes you already know are comfortable. And if heels aren’t your thing, don’t overlook embellished flats, polished loafers, or chic kitten heels. They can feel every bit as festive.
A festive top is one of the easiest ways to dress for a work holiday party, especially when the celebration is happening in the office and you’re heading there straight from your desk. Look for elevated details like bows, lace, subtle shimmer, or a rich seasonal shade like wine red to instantly make your outfit feel party-ready without going over the top. For more casual gatherings, pair your favorite top with dark-wash denim and heels; if the dress code leans dressier, style it with tailored trousers or a sleek midi skirt for a festive-yet-professional look.
A pair of elevated trousers can feel just as festive as a dress or skirt this season. Look for styles in luxe fabrics like satin, velvet, or vegan leather to give your outfit a party-ready feel while still looking polished and work-appropriate. Pair them with sophisticated staples like a crisp button-down, sleek turtleneck or sweater, then finish the look with statement earrings and a chic heel. The result is an outfit that’s effortlessly festive–and perfect for everything from an in-office happy hour to a more formal evening celebration.
A special skirt follows the same styling philosophy as a pair of fancy pants. When your skirt features a shimmery fabric, satin finish, or sparkly embellishments, a simple top is often all you need to create a polished work holiday party look. Think a fitted knit, sleek turtleneck, or classic blouse in a neutral or tonal hue to balance the statement-making bottom. A midi-length silhouette is a particularly safe bet for office celebrations, and strikes the perfect balance between festive and professional.
For a work holiday party, a great dress does all the styling work for you. Think rich jewel tones, subtle shimmer, elegant draping, or textured fabrics that feel festive without going over the top. A midi silhouette is always an elegant (and appropriate!) option–add a pair of heels and delicate jewelry, and you’re set. Just save anything overly revealing or head-to-toe sequins for New Year’s Eve–the best work party looks strike a balance between celebratory and polished.
Sometimes, the best work holiday party outfit is the one you already wore to the office, just with a few festive upgrades. Swap everyday studs for crystal or pearl earrings, layer on a statement necklace, or add a touch of sparkle with a rhinestone embellishment. These small additions instantly make a classic knit, button-down, or bow-front top feel celebration-ready without requiring a complete outfit change.
Show us your festive work look! Tag us on Instagram or TikTok @lulus using #lovelulus for a chance to be shared–and explore our Holiday Office Party Edit for more outfit inspiration.
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