The Most Glamorous Time of the Year: Looks for a Formal Office Party

From faux fur to pops of red to a whole lot of sparkle, steal some inspiration for the perfect formal attire this season. Whether you’re headed to your office’s big bash or a client’s charity gala, you’ll be ready to deck the halls in no time.

Business Formal

For the swanky company holiday party at an even swankier downtown location, stay polished but playful with a faux fur coat, a jewel toned and tailored dress, a deep shade of red lipstick, and lots of bling around your neck. For the guys, a three-piece dark gray suit will look formal but not too stiff, and don’t forget to add playful touches you might not normally wear during your 9-to-5, like a red pocket square and a plaid shirt paired with a polka dot tie.

Black Tie

For a client’s black tie affair this holiday season, keep things sleek, traditional, and ever-so dramatic. A classy, lace number that hits below the knee paired with opaque tights is a no-fail option, and you’ll look impossibly chic. Offset the ladylike lace with gold metal accents, a swipe of classic red, and bold statement earrings (in holiday emerald, of course)! For the guys, stick with the classic James Bond: a tux or black suit, a crisp white button-down, and a black bowtie. To get into the holiday spirit, add some color to your cufflinks and try a hint-of-metallic pocket square.

Yuletide Ball

A formal ball calls for the most formal style of dress, but don’t be afraid to have fun with it; after all, the holidays are the perfect time for glitz and glamour! Wear a Gatsby-inspired floor length number—something sparkly in gold or silver is perfect—and adorn yourself with a fur shawl, red-orange lips (the trending lipstick color of the season!), and gorgeous studs. For guys, change up your look with a very formal white bow tie and sleek cufflinks, and add a pop of color with a pair of red argyle socks.