Decoding the Christmas party dress codes

You’ve got the invite but OMG what to wear? Karen Dacre navigates the Christmas party dress codes
28 November 2013

“Smart casual”

This tired out and twee dress code brings with it some pretty sizeable room for error: go too fancy and you’ll look like a try-hard but make no effort at all and the results could be equally as devastating. For Londoners, an inherently casual bunch, I’d recommend adding a flash of formality to a pared-down look or vice versa. In practical terms for men, that means teaming a pair of trainers with a navy blue suit or flinging a jacket with a luxurious texture over jeans. For women, smart casual is less problematic, just be sure to avoid anything slinky, strapless or sequined. (Retro trainers, £55, Le Coq Sportif, 21-23 Earlham Street)

“Fifties and fabulous” / “A touch of animal”/ “Gangster”

The suggestion that you might have to dress up ahead of your annual office festivities is one that is met by most with a four-hour tantrum and a wish to throw your host through the nearest tinsel-lined window. If bypassing the party for the pub is definitely not an option, I’d suggest that going all out is the only way to survive with any sort of credibility. So if, like my friend, you’ve been invited to a Narnia party this December don’t dress as the sexy Snow Queen (BORING!) but as the wardrobe. (Red tie, £29.50, Banana Republic, 224 Regent Street)

“Black tie”

This method of party dressing might sound simple but in truth it’s anything but — especially if you’re a woman. Common misconceptions of the phrase include thinking of wearing a flowing taffeta ballgown equipped with train and emerald-cut diamond embellishment. If retaining some sort of style kudos is the objective, I recommend a knee-length cocktail gown spruced up with a sprinkling of jewellery. If you don’t mind splashing a bit of cash, invest in a dress by a hot London designer and avoid all mother-of-the-bride shops. Men up for deviating from the classic dinner suit should try double-breasted jackets and statement brogues. (Dreamy ring, £15, Cheap Monday, 39 Carnaby Street)

“Dress fabulous”

Excuse me while I throw up. The suggestion to dress “fabulous” is surely the most disgusting of all party instructions. Handle it by reaching for your favourite black dress and a sparkling pair of ballet flats — or better, wide-leg trousers and a blazer. That way you’ll look effortless against the tiara-trimmed masses. Men should opt for nicely cut double-breasted suits worn with no tie. (Trouser suit from £315, Karen Millen, 247 Regent Street)

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