Holiday Dress Code: What Works for 2007 Office and Casual Parties

'Tis the season for parties. They can be a pain, despite their fun. The agony comes from wondering what to wear. After all what works for a night out with friends doesn't necessarily work for the office gala. What you wear may cause raised eyebrows from your co-workers. While what works for cocktails with your boss may not cut it at that holiday family brunch. Your best bet is having a wardrobe that can be mixed and matched along with it being elegant and stylish.

A lot of women think it's OK for the world to see their wild side. Yes it is fun t o put on party duds and look like a Hooters waitress gone wild. However do you really want friends, family and office buddies gossiping about you until the summer solstice? As much as you want to show those expensive Paper and Denim jeans - DON'T ! Keep them relegated to holiday shopping. Opt for a good pair of black slacks instead. These work well with sparkly metallic turtlenecks and sequined tops (more on those later). If you feel that a straight leg pant is too conservative then splurge on the versatile wide legged ones. This is the style that was popularized by Katie Holmes during her mommy and me Berlin photo shoot. They look great on everyone, hiding bulges and bumps along with making stubbly legs appear longer. For any pants think about wool crepe that is warm and can hold up to spills and stains. You can also buy wool or even polyester/rayon blends . Both will just look just as good as the more expensive fabrics and are easier to clean. If you feel black pants are too severe then go for winter white or champagne color Just remember to wear lined ones or wear granny panties underneath. Light colored slacks have a tendency to show off your bottom and not in a good way . You don't want anyone to be shocked accidentally at that heinie tattoo you got on Halloween. Unfortunately, these colors will show any stain so be careful with the red wine, coffee or tea.