Christmas party dressing - Try something different

If the idea of squeezing yourself into a sparkly party mini dress for your work’s Christmas do makes you feel a bit queasy, you’re definitely not alone. Recent research shows that women in the UK try on, on average, a total of seven outfits before finding “The One” for their festive frivolities. As well as spending up to two hours browsing online before clicking “Buy”. 

 

Christmas party dressing can be rife with all types of worries. The elusive checklist includes feeling comfortable and confident in yourself, staying work-appropriate in front of your bosses and colleagues and, of course, making sure you don’t turn up in the same outfit choice as someone else… ending up in an awkward “Who Wore It Best” workplace contest.

 

This year, we’ve put together a few looks that could be considered a little different from the norm, to help you find something that sets your heart alight and has you dancing all night long (if that’s what you’re into).

 

 

It may sound simple, but the easiest step to a whole new cache of party outfits is to look beyond the dress. We love the simple pairing of slim trousers, heels and a strappy cami. 

 

Try these Paisley Print Cigarette Trousers with a Silk Cami with Buttoned V-Neck  in taupe or black. Add big, gold earrings and chunky Suede Heels for a polished finished that feels as good as it looks. 

 

 

 

If you love to make an impact but also enjoy the added bonuses of pockets and feeling warm, why not give a boiler suit a try? Oh-so on-trend, this true 70s throwback is great value for money as it’s easy to dress up or down depending on the occasion. It’ll serve you long after the festive season passes and the party pics have been uploaded to Facebook. 

 

Start with this Velvet Boiler Suit as a single layer, buttoned as low as you dare. Roll the sleeves, add a statement necklace – we love this Chain Necklace with Tortoiseshell Links – and slide on some Patent Loafers with Bow. Comfy, casual, cool. 

 

If you’re keen to keep things feminine, but sequins and glitter aren’t really your bag, don’t be afraid to dress up the everyday. Pick a puffy, floaty or pencil shaped skirt in a midi-length and instead of letting your mind wonder to silk, lace and other “party-worthy” fabrics, play it down with a fine knit polo neck or long sleeve top for a simple silhouette which whispers elegance with its every move. 

 

This Anne Weyburn Pleated Midi Skirt is classic Christmas – its soft fabric and beautiful plum hue is rich and lovely, like holly berries! Slip it on and loosely tuck in your favourite Breton Stripe T-Shirt. The familiarity of the Breton is magic for boosting confidence if parties weird you out a bit, and you can feel secure and body confident whatever party games and group dance-moves crop up. Step into Patent Heeled Mary Janes and add a simple silver bangle.