What to wear to a Christmas party (and the office one)
A Christmas party is the time for more sparkle, velvet and rich colours. But at the office party remember you'll see your colleagues tomorrow: festive, but not too revealing. Family or friends' parties can be more relaxed, New Year's Eve the boldest.
For women
- A velvet or satin midi dress
- A sequin skirt with a cashmere sweater
- Satin trousers and a silk blouse
- Metallic or velvet shoes
For men
- A velvet blazer over a shirt or roll neck
- A dark suit with a festive tie or pocket square
- A cashmere or merino sweater with a blazer
What to avoid
- Anything too revealing at the office party
- A Christmas jumper – only if announced
- Everyday office clothes with no festive touch
Tips
- If the party starts straight after work, bring sparkly earrings and shoes for a quick change.
- In winter, a stylish coat and practical shoes for the journey, party shoes in your bag.
Office, family or friends
Office party: business wear with a festive touch – velvet, a sparkly accessory, a brighter colour. Family Christmas: cosy elegance – a cashmere sweater, a midi skirt, wool trousers. Friends' party or New Year's Eve: the boldest option – sequins, metallics, satin. If the party has a theme, the invitation usually says what's expected.
Festive attire
Women: A velvet, sequin or satin dress + heels + festive jewellery.
Men: A dark suit or velvet blazer + a shirt or fine roll neck.
Cocktail attire
Women: A knee-length or midi cocktail dress + heels + a small bag.
Men: A dark suit + dress shirt + tie (increasingly optional) + leather shoes.
Smart casual
Women: Dark jeans or trousers + a good blouse or knit + a blazer + elegant shoes.
Men: Dark jeans or chinos + a shirt, polo or knit + (blazer) + leather shoes or clean sneakers.
Frequently asked
01What to wear to an office Christmas party?
Business wear with a festive touch: a velvet blazer, a sparkly skirt with a knit, bolder accessories.
02What colours suit Christmas?
Burgundy, bottle green, navy, gold, silver and black.
03What should a man wear to a Christmas party?
A velvet or dark blazer, a shirt or roll neck, dark trousers and leather shoes; a festive tie or pocket square adds a touch.
04What to wear on New Year's Eve?
Sequins, metallics, satin and velvet – the night when more sparkle fits. For men, a dark suit or a velvet blazer.