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Styles of the social season
words by
KRISTA WOHLSTADT // orchard lane
The festive season is here once again!
The beginning of the summer period is all about the Christmas party season, and chances are, you’ll have more than one event to attend.
From office Christmas parties to dinners with friends as well as the big day, the time is now for your warm weather party wardrobe to shine!
If you’re trying to work out the office party dress code or just thinking ahead for Christmas Day, read on for our guide to the styles of the silly season.
Office Christmas Party
When it comes to celebrating the end of the working year in style at the annual office Christmas party, it’s all about having fun after working hard!
From formal galas to the more relaxed barbecues, enjoy the opportunity to dress up with your coworkers.
However, it’s important to make note of the dress code, as you don’t want to show up over or underdressed.
Smart casual generally means ‘casual but polished’, so dress like you’re going out to a nice restaurant rather than the local coffee shop.
A flowy, less bold dress will do the trick here, like a wrap dress.
For the cocktail Christmas party, you can’t go wrong with a classic little black dress. Just above the knee is ideal in length, and a pair of heels will complement the look and give you a sophisticated look.
Right now, overlay dresses and lace embellishments are very on trend for occasion outfitting.
Formal or black tie typically asks for the fancy side of your wardrobe.
Get your look red carpet ready with a sleek or flowy gown.
Put your hair up in a stylish up-do to compliment a longer dress, and a heel and pair of statement earrings will tie the outfit together.
In contrast to fancy parties, many workplaces love to celebrate the end of the year with a relaxed afternoon lunch with drinks.
A daytime party dress in festive colours like red or bright florals is sure to be a winning outfit for your end of year get together.
A chic jumpsuit is another failsafe option for a balmier day in the Australian summer.
The sophisticated yet breezy outfit can be worn to restaurants, wine bars and barbecues.
Just add wedges and a cross body bag and you’re ready to go!
Christmas Eve
The calm before the storm!
Whether it’s Christmas Eve dinner with family or a Secret Santa exchange with friends, look for a style that’s festive, fun and easy to wear!
Christmas Eve is generally the more relaxed part of the Christmas season, so don’t feel too pressured.
Rompers and breezy dresses are a practical and very sweet option for any Christmas Eve occasion.
This is an opportunity to get creative with your footwear and accessories as well as start getting into the festive spirit.
For casual catch ups with friends or family, think jumpsuits, floral prints, and statement belts!
Tie the look together with gold or silver jewellery (whichever matches your skin tone!) a sleek ponytail, and wedges.
Christmas Day
In Australia we can only dream of a white Christmas, so swap the snow for frozen margaritas and crisp white linen outfits!
One of the highlights of Christmas is the food, it’s the time to treat yourself!
For the summer Christmas spent around the pool, cheese platter, or piled high dinner table, loose fitting outfits are definitely ideal.
You don’t want to end up uncomfortable in tight clothes after indulging.
Nothing is more quintessentially Australian than a white dress or breezy jumpsuit on Christmas day in crisp cotton or linen fabrics.
Whether you want to max it out in a full-length dress or keep it fresh in something shorter and more playful, you’ll be party ready, comfortable and in style.
New Year’s Eve
New Year’s Eve and metallic outfits just go together.
There’s something about ringing in the new year with a touch of sparkle!
For a more formal New Year’s event, a sequined dress in silver or gold tones will do the talking, paired with a pair of nude heels.
For more casual celebrations, pair a metallic top with a denim or faux leather mini skirt or jeans for a touch of glam while keeping it comfortable.
If metallics and sequins aren’t your style, opt for shades of blush, navy or emerald to keep the festive flare.
No matter what or where you’re going to celebrate, the clock ticking over another year, make New Year’s Eve your final fashion statement for the year as well as the perfect introduction to a new one!
