IT’S CHRISTMAS PARTY TIME
YES, it’s that time of year again when we get to see our colleagues dressed as real life humans in their civilian clothes at the office Christmas party.
The big reveal is even more fun if your organisation wears a uniform.
But what makes for suitable work party attire?
You want to look different from your Monday to Friday get-up, when make-up is applied slapdash at 7am and you wrestle your hair into a presentable style after braving the school run in the rain (speaking from personal experience, you understand).
It’s understandable we want to hang up our business-as-usual garb but I’m always unsure if the work Christmas party is the place to out your inner vixen, complete with thigh high-splits and plungefront dresses...
Even off-duty, do you want your boss and your co-workers to see that much of you?
If I was blessed with a cleavage, would I want Neil in accounts getting an eyeful? (NB. Neil in accounts is an entirely fictional character).
This is our annual opportunity to make like a butterfly and transform via the magic of eyeliner, hairspray and sequins. But do you treat your work do the same as a night
QI WANT some pretty shoes to brighten up a black dress. I don’t like my toes though, so nothing strappy please.
AI LOVE these velvet ochre mules from Monsoon, such a festive colour and no open toe! out with the girls and wear exactly what you normally would? Or do you tone it down knowing your boss/line manager/colleagues will be in attendance? If flashing the flesh is your go-to style, do you opt for something more conservative for the office parties? Or do you stick to your glamorous guns?
There is the argument that women shouldn’t tailor how they dress for anyone, the rule should be wear what you would normally wear and still be taken seriously, whether that be mini skirts or PVC catsuits. Whether that actually happens is definitely up for debate.
There are some great options in the shops no matter what your party style. If sequins are too ubiquitous, take a leaf out of Victoria Beckham’s book and go for a winter white tuxedo or swap dresses for separates. The silky midi-skirt is having a fashion moment – Topshop has nailed this trend and, the best thing is, you can wear them afterwards with a chunky knit and boots. No matter what you decide to wear one thing I do know is, what happens at the office party doesn’t necessarily stay at the office party. That applies to snogging, dirty dancing and being carried out drunk. Don’t say I didn’t warn you!
■ JOANNE is a stylist and personal shopper with more than 12 years experience in the fashion industry. Email: Joannecwatkinson@me.com