Black tie to twinkle toes Every festive party sorted
Deciphering dress codes and ‘glamming’ up can suddenly feel quite intimidating. It needn’t be a wardrobe crisis, though, with the help of industry experts, says Caroline Leaper
It’s quarter to seven on a Wednesday night and, at any other time of the year, you’d be happily heading home for dinner in front of Netflix. But, because it’s a random midweek evening in early December, you find yourself with other, more confusing plans. It’s time to “freshen up” for the office Christmas party and put your head in totem-pole formation with Janine from accounts and Sandra from sales to get a glimpse in what appears to be the company’s only communal mirror.
The unique combination of bad office lighting, an awkward commuter bag and having 10 minutes to get ready after a really important meeting, can send even the most astute dresser into a spin.
Maybe it isn’t even your own office Christmas party. As career types have diversified, so too have the festive social engagements we might go to. You could be struggling to shop for the first black-tie gala you will attend (a dress-toimpress situation), or perhaps you’ve worked from home all year and want to remind your colleagues and clients that you are, well, dazzling.
There are solutions out there. Look at Natalie Dormer or Eva Chen, first out the gate in sequins this year and both wearing flattering, not-tacky midi and maxi dresses with defined waists. See Victoria Beckham and Adwoa Aboah, showing the two sides of statement suiting – will you choose a fabric with a full-on print or a subtle sheen? Or take Alexa Chung, saying more is more, with embroidery, bold earrings and a corsage necklace.
So, whether you’re confused by an invitation, unsure of how much glitter to pile on, or just hoping to find some suitable party flats to see you through a packed social calendar, consider this your ultimate party dressing guide.