Party season is upon us, so with cringe worthy moments with that woman from the other side of the office looming just around the corner, it’s time to start thinking about the most important thing on everyone’s Christmas list this year: being the best dressed in the office.
So where do you start on your mission to gain office fashionista status?
To begin with, consider where your Christmas party is being held: there’s no point in turning up looking like you own a small stately home in the British country side if your boss has decided you’re all heading down the local pub for a pint and a bag of salt and vinegar, is there?
First tip done (dress for the occasion), now how are you going to choose what to wear?
Separate your outfit ideas into two groups: smart, and smart casual. This will allow you to differentiate different styles for different events.
The perfect smart out fit comprises of a mix of key tailoring elements. Blazer jackets are a must, as they provide sartorial elegance to any gent. Opt for a two button fastening: this isn’t the 90’s.
Link your blazer with a crisp shirt (colours are fine, but avoid pattern shirts at all costs), and then accessorise. If you want to add a bit more life to an otherwise fairly plain and simple look, add some pattern on a tie or bow tie, or, if your feeling a bit more adventurous, opt for a neckerchief or dress scarf.
However, bear in mind that the very best smart outfits are plain and simple.
Finally, make sure your trousers are colour coded to your jacket. Don’t go for loud pop colours, as this will detract from your smarter look.
Alternatively, instead of a shirt, try a turtle neck jumper underneath your jacket. This will give you a sharp, suave silhouette, as well as an extra layer of warmth.
Remember, the key to a smart look is in the cut of your cloth: not loose, yet not slim. Tapered is perfect.
Going somewhere a little less up market? Smart casual allows for denim and chinos, so wear whatever you feel most comfortable in. A slacker dress code also allows for more adventurous colours, but tread carefully where your trousers are concerned. Attempt subtle colours in chinos, but stick with dark indigo as far as denim is concerned.
Shirting can provide your outfit with a smarter edge (this time you can include bright or patterned pieces). Finish your look with another layer. Cardigans or fine gauge knitwear are perfect, or textured blazers such as woollen’s or velvet add a fresh debonair twist to any outfit.
Finally accessorise appropriately. It’s OK to wear ties or bow ties, assuming that again, they are textured. Don’t try and pull of a silk tie with jeans or chinos; it won’t work.

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