What Can You Wear To A Holiday Office Party?

It's officially party season, which means it'll also soon be time for your holiday office party. For some, the prospect of getting dressed up and enjoying a night out with work colleagues is exciting, but for others, the thought of an office party causes major dread. It's even more awkward if you've just started working somewhere or don't know your colleagues well enough to ask them what they're planning on wearing. 

Of course, the vibe should always be considered too — is it the type of holiday party where you'll be drunkenly singing along to Whitney Houston long past midnight, or more of a casual affair complete with ugly Christmas sweaters? Are you the type to start planning the best cocktails to spice up your office party well in advance, or more of a sideline hoverer? Either way, you'll need to match your outfit to the vibes for optimum results.

If just thinking about any of the above has your head spinning, fear not, because you're sure to be inspired by the looks we've picked out below. Suitable for every type of festive office get-together, from lowkey drinks to full-on parties, there truly is something for every event. 

Speaking to Marie Claire, stylist Shea Daspin argued that a holiday office party look should strive to be "a delicate balance of looking office appropriate, cool, and festive all at the same time." Daspin also recommended you "opt for the more conservative look" if you are unsure of the vibe and then "accessorize with edgier pieces or materials like latex, layered jewelry, and a killer heel." These elegant Steve Madden Black Viable Heels and stunning Emma Pills Wild Sparkle Hoops will dress up your outfit even if you have gone for something more toned down. 

For something that feels festive but can still be made more conservative based on your office environment, try velvet. Smooth or crushed, velvet just screams festive. Plus, the best thing about it is that you can opt for a dress, top, trousers, or even a two-piece if you want to look extra luxe, per Glamour. The Monroe Top from Reformation has just the right amount of sass with its sweetheart neckline and can effortlessly be made smarter with a pair of cigarette pants like these River Island Split Front Cigarette Trousers. 

If your holiday office party is taking place at a more upscale bar or restaurant, you have full permission to ramp up the glamour. However, if your office vibe is more chill than glitzy, you may be struggling to come up with a dress that fits the theme. Enter the Gaia Dress from ASTR the Label. Sleek, elegant, and just a little bit sexy, this dress will allow you to breathe while still giving you the glamour needed for a proper soirée. Who What Wear suggests you could even layer a cardigan or cropped sweater over the top until you're 100% sure of the vibe. 

If you've been keeping up with fashion trends, you'll already know that leather pants are big news right now. There's no question they've become a staple, with model Kendall Jenner regularly spotted wearing leather pants, and they'll add the perfect amount of edge to your holiday party look, according to Marie Claire. The Aritzia Melina Trousers, available in short, medium, or tall, would look gorgeous paired with the Pearl Cropped Fringe Jumper from & Other Stories. This combo is perfect for both casual bar drinks and fancy cocktails alike. 

Celeb stylist Maeve Reilly advised that, for any holiday event, you should "be comfortable and represent you and feel confident in what you're wearing" above all else (via Who What Wear). If your go-to is a sweater and jeans, there are ways to dress this classic combo up, and the Signature 8 Embellished Straight Leg Jeans in Wash Black fit the bill perfectly. The darker color makes them appear smarter, while the rhinestones add extra glitz and sparkle. Pair with a sweater like the ASOS Design Embellished Stone and Fringe Sweater for a cozy, holiday-ready look. 

Want to look breezy and effortless no matter the office party location? The chic Aritzia Spencer Dress will have heads turning as soon as you walk through the door. In fact, Cosmopolitan reports that the Spencer dress has mastered the art of looking like you tried, just not too much (obvs). Featuring a cowl neck, it's available in seven colors, ranging from deep maroon red to pretty ivory. The satin material will drape across your body but not cling, making it a flattering choice for every figure. You can also dress it up with heels or go for an edgy look with on-trend cowboy boots, so it's easy to make it your own. 

If you prefer being more covered up, don't panic. There are plenty of outfits suited to a holiday party that let you do exactly that while still slaying the fashion game, and suits are definitely one of them. Perpetually stylish, suits are especially popular during party season, as Vogue points out. The eclectic and eye-catching Straight Cut Feather Blazer and matching Minimal High Waist Pants from Zara, both in Barbie pink, will certainly make a statement at your office party. Just ensure you keep the rest of your outfit simple with minimalist jewelry and accessories to prevent a clashing look. 

Though a knit dress is a great way to bypass the awkward intersection between casual and dressy, most are unfortunately on the clingier side, as Country Living notes. Thankfully, the wrap-style knit dress from Amazon will give you some room to breathe after indulging in delicious cocktails and party food, while still looking sophisticated. Alternatively, the Knitted Midi Dress with Tie Waist from ASOS is also a good shout if you want to show off less leg but are still looking to create a more feminine shape with a cinched waist. 

Whichever outfit you choose, keep in mind that accessories are key. In particular, shoes. You want your shoes to be comfortable enough to shimmy around on the dancefloor but still match well with a variety of ensembles. A pair that ticks all the boxes is the Gold Metallic Knot Detail Platform Heels from River Island. The block heel will be more comfortable and the bow detail gives them a festive edge. Metallic is a trending color this winter and, as The Trend Spotter asserts, metallic heels will transform any look into a party-ready one, which is ideal if you have to go to an event straight from work. 

Last but not least is headwear. According to Tatler, the humble headband is definitely back, and it will add a spark to any look. A headpiece like the Glitzma Embellished Diamante Headband from Ted Baker will make you feel like a million dollars. If headbands aren't your thing, why not opt for a funky hair clip instead? Yes, there is a difference between a hair clip and a barrette, and these five, starry silver clips from Jennifer Behr (via Harper's Bazaar) will glimmer all night under the lights, to add that little something extra to your look. Whatever you choose this party season, make it your own and most importantly have fun.