*Whispers* I hate to say it, but the festive season is creeping closer and closer. Before you know it you’ll be cracking open the advent calendar, Band Aid will be back on the radio and decorations will be filling every corner of
your house. That’s not the only thing. The other inevitable part of Christmas is… wait for it… the office Christmas party.
For some it creates a feeling of excitement; for others, complete dread. Like many women (women outnumber men in our office five to one) I’ve got nothing to wear for the occasion. I’ve got the massive pants and the shoes, but the rest of the outfit? Nothing.
But apparently I don’t need to panic just yet. Here are some tips that have been shared by the people who know far more about this than little old me…
Dresses
A popular choice for loads of us is ‘the dress.’ Most of us have been there, haven’t we? The experience of “that dress”, whether for a birthday party, friend’s wedding… It’s the kind of dress that makes you feel a bit special and immediately two stone lighter.
There’s a fantastic range of dresses out at the moment, from an elegant maxi dress to the classic LBD, there’s something for all shapes, styles and sizes. You just need a spare five minutes toddler-free to actually try it on. The big trends to look out for this season are all things that glitter – which is handy really, because sparkle and Christmas go together like, well, presents and Christmas, chocolate and Christmas. You know what I’m saying, yes?
Skirts
If wearing a dress isn’t really your thing, then wearing a brilliant skirt can have the same effect. Clearly the idea isn’t to ditch a top altogether (I don’t think Lady Gaga even does that), but once you’ve found the perfect skirt, finding everything else is pretty easy. The skater skirt is a popular style this season, but also a comfortable one (win) so if you’re brave enough to go for an edgier look then it’s worth a go. But like I said, don’t forget the top. Obviously.
Tops
Similar to the skirt, wearing a gorgeous top can also work well as a statement piece. Coupled with a smart pair of leggings or some dark jeans, this combination is right up my street. The only problem is that sometimes there’s too much choice, so knowing where to start is a bit intimidating.
If this is the case, the fashionista advice is to go for something you don’t usually wear. So, maybe do a Vogue look and pick Monochrome prints which are ultra flattering. Other designs also making a mark are zig-zags and any clothes of a royal tendency – purples and royal blues are very “in”, crowns are not.
Finally, sticking with the royal theme, fabrics that suggest luxury always seem to have a renaissance at this time of year. This season it’s all about the lace and the lavish materials.
And there you are. Just call me Gok Wan. *curtseys*