first impression style, personal branding, carolyn curtis

Let The Countdown Begin!CAC photo

 

How many more days to your work holiday party? I bet it's coming up sooner than you think. Whether you love or dread your annual holiday festivities, they are a vital part of your work culture.  What you wear to this event truly does matter!  Here are my key "What to Wear to your Holiday Party" principles:

winter white
MAKE AN EFFORT. Don't show up in your everyday work clothes. You want to be viewed as a "team player" and supportive of the event.

This is an opportunity to express your personality and brand by what you wear. 

Most importantly, bear in mind that this is a work party and not a social gathering among friends. 

work holiday upgrades
PLAN NOW. First, assess the type of holiday party, the venue, and who is attending, to determine how dressy or casual you should be. 

For example, if the party is on-site, after work, then you can make simple "upgrades" to your look by adding festive jewelry or wearing holiday colors or even wearing red lipstick. 
Off site holiday party
If the party is off-site, on a weekend evening, with spouses invited, then you are more likely to wear "cocktail attire". If in doubt, err on the side of being more formal, rather than risk being under dressed.

This is NOT the time to wear clothing that leaves little to the imagination. After the soiree you still have to conduct business with these people and some of them may have input into your career advancement and review.

work holiday attire
Next, either shop for a new outfit or go through your closet to make sure your holiday outfit fits and is ready to go, including shoes, accessories and shape-wear.

If you're like me, no new outfit is perfect without a trip to the tailor, so don't wait till the last minute.

Is it ever appropriate to wear a holiday-themed sweater to work?
Holiday sweaters


 

This may surprise you, but I sometimes find the holiday themed sweaters cute and funny. Other times, they are just awful. This distinction is very much driven by the appropriateness of the work environment (like if you are a teacher versus corporate staff) and the person wearing the sweater. 

 

So do you risk it? Probably not. Keep them for your personal days. For work, upgrade to a beautiful shiny, sparkle sweater!   

 

No time to shop?
Sure, you say, shopping for a new Holiday Party outfit would be fabulous if only I had the time!  Working with me, you can shop from your computer from the pieces and looks I've pulled together JUST FOR YOU. Buy what you like from top retail companies. Contact me to get started.
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Carolyn Curtis, First Impression Style Newsletter, Personal Branding