What to Wear to a Christmas Party: The Tailor’s Guide for Men and Women

Why Your Christmas Party Outfit Still Matters

Not sure how to dress for a holiday event? Think about the setting, the people and the tone – then build your outfit from there.

Your appearance shapes how others see you, especially in festive settings. Wearing something thoughtful shows you value the event and the people there. It also helps you relax, connect with others and feel more at ease.

In British workplaces, dressing well helps you stay in step with professional etiquette. Socially, it shows you’ve made an effort. From casual pub meet-ups to formal client dinners, the right outfit tells others you’re tuned into the moment.

A crisp shirt, a pair of polished shoes or a well-fitting dress sends a message of self-awareness and care. These small details create presence.

Dress Codes Decoded: From Office Party to Cocktail Night

Not every festive invite asks for the same look. The venue, time and host all shape what’s expected. Here’s how to read the room.

Common UK Christmas Party Dress Codes

Style sources like GQ UK and etiquette guidance from Debrett’s can be helpful when the invite is vague or expectations are unclear.

• Smart Casual: Relaxed but polished. Tailored trousers, fine knitwear or dresses with subtle sparkle. This style is ideal for pub drinks or informal gatherings.

• Cocktail Attire: Sharper and more refined. Structured dresses and suits in elevated fabrics. Perfect for dinners or stylish venues.

• Black Tie: Formal wear. Tuxedos, long dresses or evening gowns are standard.

• Festive or Themed: Often includes novelty jumpers or specific colour themes. Check the invite or ask the organiser.

Quick Dress Code Questions to Ask

• Where is the party?

• Will there be a sit-down meal or dancing?

• Are you attending with colleagues, friends or clients?

If unsure, choose something slightly smarter. It’s easier to remove a jacket than to wish you had worn one.

Women’s Style Guide: Confident Choices for Every Setting

Your outfit should help you feel like yourself – just with a seasonal twist. This is your chance to dress to impress while staying true to your comfort and style.

What might a festive outfit look like?

• Pub gathering: A velvet mini skirt, soft-knit jumper and ankle boots. This feels festive but low-pressure.

• Office party: A sequin-trimmed blouse tucked into wide-leg trousers with a cropped blazer.

• Cocktail dinner: A satin midi dress in jewel tones with heeled boots and gold earrings.

Outfit Ideas by Setting

• Office Party: Choose a jumpsuit, a midi dress with shimmer or a festive skirt with a smart blouse.

• Friend’s Party or Club: A velvet mini with tights, wide-leg trousers with heels or a satin cami and blazer.

• Restaurant Event: A dress in rich tones or a blouse paired with a sleek midi skirt.

Texture and Layering

Use fabrics like velvet, satin and wool for texture and warmth. Add a cropped jacket or a stylish coat for extra comfort.

Common Concerns, Reassured

• Fit: Choose cuts that feel good when standing or sitting.

• Necklines: If unsure about how much skin to show, pair a lower neckline with longer sleeves or a higher hemline.

• Shoes: Heels are not essential. Block heels or polished flats work well.

Men’s Style Guide: Sharp Looks Without the Fuss

Looking good does not require being overly formal. With a few well-chosen pieces, you can feel confident and put together.

What should men wear for different party settings?

• Casual pub night: Dark jeans, clean Chelsea boots and a fine-gauge jumper.

• Office party: Wool chinos, a white shirt and a navy blazer. This is smart casual done right.

• Formal dinner or client event: A velvet jacket over a roll neck with tailored trousers and polished shoes.

Jackets That Work

• Velvet Blazer: This adds seasonal interest.

• Suit Jacket: A strong choice for many events.

• Overshirt (Heavyweight): Ideal for smart casual settings when layered over fine knits.

Trousers

• Neutral chinos

• Wool or corduroy trousers for texture and comfort

• Avoid jeans unless it’s a clearly casual setting

Shirts and Layering

• Button-down shirts in white, navy or green

• Roll necks or fine knitwear under blazers

• Ensure a clean fit at the shoulders and cuffs

A navy blazer and grey trousers work well for most festive events.

Fit Over Flash: What Great Style Looks Like Up Close

Style often comes down to quiet details. Nothing matters more than how your clothes fit. A good fit can elevate simple outfits.

Why Fit Matters

Off-the-peg clothing rarely fits everyone perfectly. Sleeves may bunch, waists may gape and hems might hang too low. These small issues affect how you look and feel.

Women can benefit from tailoring dresses, jumpsuits and tops. A small change like shortening straps or lifting a hem often improves overall fit.

Easy Fixes That Make an Impact

• Adjust sleeves or hems

• Take in the waist on jackets or dresses

• Raise a neckline or tidy a strap

When clothes fit properly, you look relaxed and prepared.

What Works in Winter: Texture, Colour & Comfort

Cold weather requires outfits that work with the season. Here is how to dress for warmth and style.

Colour Palettes That Work

• Navy, charcoal, oxblood and emerald

• Burgundy and deep green add richness

• Lighter tones work best when layered

Ideal Winter Fabrics

• Wool and flannel for warmth

• Velvet and tweed for texture

• Choose breathable linings over stiff synthetics

Layer wisely. Use slim base layers, midweight knits and structured outerwear to stay warm without bulk.

Accessories, Outerwear & the Finishing Touches

Coats, jewellery and footwear affect how your outfit is received. These finishing touches complete the look.

Outerwear

• Wool coats in neutral shades suit most looks

• Wrap coats, pea coats or belted styles maintain their shape

• Save puffers for outdoor-only events

Accessories

• For Women: Statement earrings, compact clutches, ankle boots

• For Men: Polished shoes, smart scarves, pocket squares for dressier occasions

Choose accessories that match the tone of your outfit. These small details matter.

Outfit Pitfalls to Avoid: What Trips People Up

Even with a good plan, small mistakes can cause frustration. Watch out for:

• Shoes that rub or slip

• Clothes that ride up or need adjustment

• Lint, deodorant marks or creases

• Over-the-top novelty pieces

If something feels wrong at home, it will feel wrong later too.

Smart Moves: When to Get Something Altered (or Gifted)

Tailoring works for both men and women. It is one of the quickest ways to improve your outfit.

How long do tailoring tweaks usually take?

• Trouser hemming: Often done within 1 to 2 days

• Sleeve or waist adjustments: Typically 3 to 5 working days

• Dress alterations (straps, fit): Around 5 days depending on complexity

If you are planning ahead for a party, get items altered at least a week in advance.

What to Alter

• Shorten sleeves or trousers

• Take in waistlines or raise hemlines

• Adjust necklines or straps

Fielding & Nicholson and other UK-based tailors offer these services. Tailoring vouchers also make practical gifts.

Final Checks Before You Head Out the Door

Before you leave the house, check your outfit:

• Use a lint roller on coats, knits and dark clothing

• Remove tags or loose threads

• Test comfort by sitting, lifting your arms and walking

• Pack backups such as a safety pin or mirror

These small steps help you feel confident and ready for the evening.