What to wear to an Office Holiday Party? Well let’s follow Joan’s lead and sashay into SAKS.com to shop their smashing collection of Red Holiday Dresses. Red is a perfect shade to say Holiday Party, without trying too hard. To accessorize, we love to pair with Black Accessories to keep the intensity of the shade intact.
So many young friends have been asking about office party etiquette that we decided to republish our guidelines, assembled over years of observation and perhaps over-doing.
Diane von Furstenberg Leyah Wool Dress $280.80 SALE / Black Halo Jackie Cowlneck Gabardine Sheath $345 / Carmen Marc Valvo Front Peplum Cocktail Dress $357 SALE / BOSS Dictana Dress $545
Black Halo Adrienne Sheath Dress $345 / Goat Bentley Dress $770 / La Petite Robe di Chiara Florian Side Ruffle Dress $630 / Armani Collezioni Milano Gathered Jerssey Dress $995
KK’s DOs AND DON’Ts FOR A COMPANY PARTY
DO: Dress modestly. Nothing low cut, too short or too tight – no matter what others are wearing. Save your sexy dress for a night out with friends. DON’T: Show décolleté. It is distracting and sends the wrong kind of message.
DO: Dress festively. These red dress are a perfect bright note. Fun sparkling earrings, some rhinestone brooches and a big crystal cuff, high heels and black patterned stockings are also a fun way to make an outfit special. DON’T: Overdo it. This is not the occasion to wear anything too “out there” or try to steal the show with what you’re wearing.
DO: Set up a strategy in advance. Is there someone in the company that could help your career? Remember this is an opportunity to socialize with some higher-ups. Do some research so you will have something intelligent to talk about. DON’T: Be obviously sucking up to the bosses.
DO: Be social. Go out of your way to mingle with some new co-workers and try to speak to everyone. DON’T: Flirt – everyone is watching. If you are interested in a co-worker make other opportunities to get to know each other – no making out in the corner!
DON’T: Pre-drink – wait until you get to the party to start to party. DON’T: Overdrink. Start with water and alternate every other drink. And going out to bars “with the guys” afterwards is also not a great idea although it will seem brilliant at the time – trust me. DON’T: Eat seafood hor d’oeuvres, nothing is worse than fish breath.
DO: Make it a point to thank the people who have organized the party, whether it is the head of the company, the head of your department or your co-worker. DO: Send a hand written note. Is still the best way to express your appreciation.
DO: Have a wonderful time and DO send us your own DOs and DONT’S!