Every year I ask myself the same question.  What am I going to wear to the holiday/Christmas party at the office. I really love holiday parties. The good food, everyone is relaxed, the dancing, people smiling, having a good time and everyone looks so fantastic.  My only beef is that most people wear  head-to-toe black.  I think that the holidays is the perfect time to take advantage of the jewel tones, beautiful sparkle and to have fun when it comes to your outfit.

Here are some colours/looks that I would like to see:

So please, try to avoid being decked out in black from head to toe (even though black is fab!). It’s a holiday party and not a funeral!  If you absolutely must wear black, try adding a pair of ethnic-inspired earrings, shoes in jewel-toned silk or satin, or a beaded shawl. Accessories are heaven-sent!

To update last year’s holiday party outfit try wearing wearing a blazer, a wrap or cardigan in a pretty colour with pearls or this season’s jewelry trends. Another idea is to your everyday suit and pair it with a pretty satin or silk camisole, evening shoes and sparkly jewels. If you are not in the mood for dresses, you can always pair the standard pencil skirt with a festive top.

On another note, red and green in Christmas hues should be avoided. Too cliche. Also, since it is an office party it is important to avoid super short hemlines, peek-a-boo undies, anything see-through and backless dresses (unless the dress is quite conservative and the back is the main feature).

I’ve started browsing online for ideas on what to wear to an office holiday party in December. I don’t mean to sound like a Miz Bah-Humbug but I am quite disappointed with what I’ve seen so far. Nothing really stands out this year from the major Canadian retailers. Maybe I am not looking in the right places? However, all is not loss because I found a few things that I sort-of liked.

These two tops from Smart Set will go well with a basic pencil skirt (or black pants) and add some glamour to a pant suit.

Satin Halter $35.00

Ruffle Racer Back Top from Smart Set SALE $25

I guess the color violet is still pretty big.  I wanted to wear something blue to the party but I can’t find anything decent.  The pleated dress can do without the strap (it takes away from the pleats) and the second dress is quite lovely.

Pleated one shoulder dress from Smart Set $55

Satin Dress from Dynamite $39.90

The sequin trend is still in full swing. I like this dress because it adds a little something to a basic black dress. For some reason it reminds me of something that Kim Basinger might have worn in the late 80’s and early 90’s.  Because the dress is somewhat flashy, I’d keep the entire look monochromatic with smokey eyes and nude lips. If I had blonde hair, I would so wear this dress.

Sequin Dress from Dynamite $39.90

More holiday fashion updates to come!