Holiday fits: What to wear for any corporate Christmas event this season

As the holiday season approaches, many, including corporate leaders, face a series of festive events that require the perfect balance of professionalism and seasonal flair.

Whether you’re attending a formal event, hosting a casual office lunch, or joining a company holiday party, dressing appropriately is key to making a lasting impression. The right outfit can convey your leadership style while embracing the joy of the season and staying on top of the latest trends.

From timeless pieces to creative festive accents, here are versatile clothing ideas that can be styled for multiple events, ensuring you stay stylish and prepared for whatever holiday gathering comes your way:

Looks for men

1. The office holiday party
For a more formal office holiday party, a classic look is ideal, but you can still add some seasonal charm.

• The foundation: A well-fitted suit in a neutral colour like charcoal grey, navy, or black.

• Multi-use item: A versatile suit jacket can be worn to both formal business meetings and evening events, like holiday parties, styled differently (e.g., swapping a tie for a festive pocket square).

• Add a festive touch: Swap out a regular tie for a silk tie with subtle holiday motifs (like a plaid or a small dot pattern in deep red or green) or wear a rich velvet blazer for added texture.

• Footwear: Leather oxford shoes in black or brown are timeless. You can also opt for polished loafers if you want something a little less formal.

2. The formal event or dinner
For high-end galas or charity dinners, aim for an elegant, sophisticated look that still lets you stand out. 

• The foundation: A well-tailored tuxedo with satin lapels.

• Multi-use item: A tuxedo jacket can be styled with a white shirt and a black tie for formal events, or it can be paired with a black v-neck sweater and jeans for a dressy-casual look at more laid-back gatherings like an office holiday dinner.

• Footwear: Black patent leather dress shoes are the go-to. Consider a well-maintained pair of black monk straps for a slightly less conventional touch.

• Accessories: Add a silk pocket square or cufflinks featuring subtle metallic tones to elevate the ensemble.

3. Casual Holiday luncheon or after work drinks
For more relaxed settings, such as a company lunch or after work drinks, comfort and style are key.

• The foundation: A well-fitted blazer or a smart wool sweater with tailored trousers.

• Multi-use item: A wool sweater or blazer can be paired with chinos for a relaxed but professional look at work, and it’s easy to dress up with a tie or Christmas-themed accessories.

• Footwear: Suede loafers or dress boots for added comfort without sacrificing style.

• Accessories: Casual scarves in festive colours like burgundy or forest green can complete the outfit.

Looks for women

1. The office holiday party
The office holiday party calls for festive elegance, but it’s important to keep the look polished.

• The foundation: A tailored sheath dress or a classic pencil skirt paired with a chic blouse.

• Multi-use item: The pencil skirt and blouse combo can be worn to business meetings or during casual days at the office. You can swap in a sequined or metallic blouse for the party and keep the skirt for a more formal or conservative look at work.

• Add a festive touch: Opt for a little black dress with a statement necklace, or a velvet wrap dress that brings a touch of luxury. Red and green accents are perfect for the season.

• Footwear: Closed-toe pumps or block heels in metallics or deep jewel tones, which add a festive yet professional vibe.

2. The formal event or dinner
For an elegant evening out at a charity gala or formal dinner, you’ll want to stand out in an opulent yet tasteful ensemble.

• The foundation: A floor-length gown or a sophisticated midi dress in a rich fabric like satin or velvet.

• Multi-use item: A midi dress can be dressed up with a sparkly belt and statement earrings for a gala or dressed down with a blazer and pumps for a corporate event.

• Footwear: Strappy heels or classic pointed-toe pumps in black or metallics for added glamour.

• Accessories: Dazzling earrings or a clutch bag can instantly elevate your ensemble.

3. Casual holiday lunch or after work drinks  
For more laid-back events, like a holiday lunch or afterwork drinks, comfort and festive elegance blend nicely.

• The foundation: A tailored blazer paired with dark jeans or tailored trousers.

• Multi-use item: The blazer is a versatile piece that can easily transition from business meetings to festive office events. Pair it with a simple blouse for a polished, office-appropriate look, or add a statement scarf and bold earrings for a more festive feel.

• Footwear: Sleek ankle boots or loafers, comfortable yet stylish for mingling during an office gathering.

• Accessories: A chic holiday-themed scarf or a metallic clutch adds just the right amount of festive flair.