If we took holiday, oh yeah oh yeah....

I love this time of year. Who can be upset when there is goodwill toward man, fresh baked goodness in the air and eggnog (whoever invented that beverage deserves sainthood!) But what I really love about December is that holiday parties are in abundance! Whether it's the "ugly sweater party" or your company's "formal attire required" party there's a good time to be found. I conveniently started a new job just in time for the holiday party and I expect to learn more than I need to about my new co-workers as it's an open bar. 

Cocktail dresses! 

• Strapless or a silhouette that does not accomodate a standard bra needs to have special arrangements. This increases the cost of the dress because arrangeable undergarments, shapewear, Hollywood tape or nipple covers can be draining on the budget. 

• If you can go commando and leave the bra at home, just get the simple chicken cutlet covers and go forth. Otherwise, make your life easy and pick a sheath or sleeved style of dress.

Ugly Sweater Parties
Can you say resale shopping? No need to go to Wal-Mart where they are certain to have tons of ugly sweaters representative of my 3rd grade teacher Ms. Ball. Instead spend $5 and go to your local Goodwill, wash and get your freak on. Bonus points if you pair your ugly sweater with a denim skirt (red stiched pockets perhaps?), a pair of jingle bell earrings and a necklace w/ some sort of flashing holiday icon (santa, rudolph, menorah).


Undefined Attire - Not Casual but not Formal either?
This would be called Festive. Beware, festive does not mean ugly sweater! This look is a fun, throw-your-hands-up-and-dance ensemble. Comfort, a little glitter and a bit of edge works well here. 

Think sequined skirt, thigh-high tights (Charming Charlie has a great selection!), short booties and a soft, "touch me" sweater - Boucle is a great choice. Another option is sleek, black pants with a nice sheen, same sweater but with a punch of color and those little booties again. Voila, not over or under dressed - just ready for whatever the evening holds.

#1 Company Party Rule 

At company parties serving alcohol, use the buddy system. Get one of your buddies or your date to put in place the 3 drink maximum rule. No more than 3 drinks around your co-workers, no one needs to know about the time when you entered a banana eating contest in college as a dare. So team up and keep eachother in check!