It’s that time of the year again. The office holiday party is just around the corner and everyone’s panicking about what to wear. We all want our seasonal outfits to impress, and nobody wants to be the person who’s laughed about behind their backs. Well, the pressure to find the perfect partywear is on, and whether you’re ready or not, Christmas waits for no one.

We’ve put together a list of common sartorial slip-ups to avoid, as well as a few classy party outfit suggestions that will always turn heads at Christmas get-togethers.

The no-nos

Anything that lights up

As soon as some people hear the word Christmas, they automatically rush out to buy clothes and accessories with more lights than Times Square. However, any item of clothing that requires batteries or a power source is a huge no-no in our book. While your flashing jumper and matching earrings might look cute and seasonal to you, everyone else will just think that you’re a walking disco ball. We’re pretty sure your party will have adequate lighting arranged already, so ditch the flashing threads.

Decorative mistletoe

Not only is it tacky, but it’s also really cringe-worthy. There’s always one culprit every year who attends the Christmas party with mistletoe hanging from head to knee. It’s meant to be a time to celebrate the holiday with your co-workers and boss, and not an opportunity to snatch a kiss or two from your colleagues. Even if you have your eye on someone that you work with, save the mistletoe for your friends and loved ones who might be more willing to embrace the tradition.

Revealing party outfits

While you might have a body to die for, it doesn’t mean that we all need to see every fleshy inch of it. There’s nothing wrong with letting loose with your work mates, but it really isn’t the right time to make a wild fashion statement. With so many drinks flowing, it’s easy to forget to check that your naughty bits aren’t popping and spilling out. Low-cut dresses and skin-tight outfits are best kept for the club. Otherwise, you may well find yourself the subject of unwanted gossip and stares.  

Tacky Christmas jumpers

We’ve all reluctantly worn a Christmas jumper at some time or another, and that’s usually because our Grandma knitted it. But unless you’re attending a Christmas jumper theme party, leave your fluffy Santa Claus, snowman or Rudolph the red nose reindeer jumper at home. Yes, they’re a bit of fun, but they’re certainly not a garment to dazzle and impress. Remember, your office party is still a business event and you should dress accordingly.    

The go-gos

Hints of sequin or sparkle

If you can’t live without a little bit of bling, opt for outfits with subtle hints of sequins or sparkle. In the run-up to Christmas, the shops are full of clothes with sequins and rhinestones, and embellished dresses that glitter effortlessly under the party lights. Even just some sparkly jewellery will do the trick and help to make your get-up appear more festive. The key to looking glamorous, rather than like a Christmas tree, is to not go over the top with your twinkle.

Pops of vibrant colour

A pop or two of colour can add extra flair to your party outfit. If you’re thinking of wearing black, team your attire with colourful fashion accessories such as a belt, heels and a clutch bag to make a statement. And instead of the usual office greys and blues, try shrugs and wraps in dramatic tones of ruby, emerald or metallic shades. In fact, just throw on any other bold colours that you wouldn’t normally wear to work. You’ll be surprised how eye-catching it is!

Tasteful festive colours

If you really want to show your colleagues that you’re serious about showing some holiday spirit, choose festive colours to wear at this year’s party. You can still look festive without dressing up like a Christmas cracker, as long as you do so tastefully. Either a forest green dress or a cherry red heel will look sophisticated as well as seasonal, and will be perfect for the Christmas party. Just be sure to never mix the two festive colours at the same time.

Something classy and comfortable

Like at all parties, you’ll probably eat and drink too much and end up hitting the dancefloor. So while you want to look classy, you still need to be comfortable in what you’re wearing to ensure you last the entire night. Stick to stretchy materials that flatter your body like stretch viscose blends and jersey fabrics. Don’t forget about your shoes too, and try to avoid ridiculously high heels that will cripple your feet. 

For more inspiration from your local clothing boutiques on what to wear to your 2016 Christmas office party, browse Yellow Pages today.