What Not to Wear to Your Company Party

Kaboodle.com

While we love a good reason to shop for new party duds, holiday office celebrations are not necessarily reasons to buy outfits you might wear out with friends. To keep your perceived professionalism this year, and perhaps even elevate it, follow these five tips to dressing for office-party success.


1. Don't Show Too Much Skin
Company parties are often super-fun affairs, especially when co-workers are friends, but as much as you want to get gussied up and celebrate, don't forget you're at a work event and dress accordingly. If a frock would be considered too short or too low-cut for the office, it's probably too revealing for your company shindig. Only you know what crosses the line. If you're not sure whether your outfit is kosher or not, it probably isn't.

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Silk corset dress, $89 from Victoria's Secret





2. Do Wear Appropriate Undergarments
Visible bra straps and panty lines are fashion mistakes in general as well as at an office party. If your dress requires a strapless bra, get one. If you're not looking as smooth under your dress as you'd like, look into a pair of Spanx. It's a festive night and you should arrive looking your best, and that starts with a proper foundation under your clothes.

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"Get Ready Jenna" dress, $395 from Kate Spade



3. Don't Wear Uncomfortable Shoes
We love sassy party shoes as much as the next girl, but even if your office party will be featuring a sit-down dinner, you'll still need to walk around and mingle before and after food is served. Nothing says fashion victim like a woman hobbling on a pair of strappy sandals that are digging into her feet. Besides, sore feet or blisters will ruin your fun.

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"Shimmer and Shine" dress, $89 from bebe



4. Do Save the Bling for the Tree
Metallics and sequins and OTT jewelry might be big trends this season, but you don't want to look like you belong dangling from a Christmas tree. Keep things festive with a killer dress, but remember that going for an understated look is best in a professional environment.

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"Spinning Lace" dress, $288 from Anthropologie



5. Don't Pull a 180 with Your Look
Your office party look should be you at your most put-together. If you're a wild child who dresses conservatively at the office, don't use your holiday party to show off your tattoos and lip ring. Keep in mind that while you may be celebrating outside the office, you're still basically at work.

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Remember, if you have to ask if your dress is okay to wear, chances are you already know the answer: No.


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Reprinted with permission of Hearst Communications, Inc.